Hive choice came up in our community group over the summer, with several members sharing what they have found. The short answer is that both work, and the right choice depends on you and your bees. Here is what members said.
What members like about poly hives
- Good insulation, which helps colonies through winter and cold spells. One member insulates the roof with rock wool and leaves a small entrance.
- Good temperature control overall. In hot summers you can add vents or remove the bottom tray.
- Strong edges that resist damage, and rebated tops that help keep water out and make lifting several boxes on and off easier.
What to watch out for
- Cleaning is harder than with wood, and that is true of every poly box.
- Some newer, lighter poly mixes dent more easily than older, denser ones.
- A lipped edge can make putting a hive back together without trapping bees more awkward.
- Check sizes if you mix poly with wooden National equipment, as some boxes and frame sizes are not compatible.
Mixing it up
One member uses wooden supers in summer and poly for winter. Another has moved entirely to poly Langstroth. If you can, visit a supplier, handle the boxes and try one hive before you commit. Questions? Ask in the community group.