Simple Langstroth to Layens Conversion

The KISS principle applies as we determine the most efficient and effective way to transition a beehive from Langstroth to Layens. As a follow up to our last episode on establishing our first hive of Italian honeybees, in this episode we convert four Langstroth frames into two Layens frames, a process you don’t want to miss if you are even thinking about starting from scratch or converting your hives.
The bees are really thriving despite all they have recently experienced, but we have made the decision to utilize a HorizontalHive.com feed trough to our system to help this small colony build up its size and health as we approach the dearth period here in East Tennessee. It’s a compromise from the orthodoxy but isn’t that what homesteading is all about, tailoring your approach to your environment and experience?
Come check us out, we would love to have you come back again.
2:50 Langstroth to Layens conversion design
5:34.14 Conversion preparation
9:12.16 Conversion and installation of frames
18:24.37 Final result
19:22.43 Next day evaluation
Hotwire fence posts: Timeless 1.75” t-post, Timeless step-in
Tensile wire: agcareproducts 180K PSI 4000’
Hotwire: Pasture Management Systems 9-strand Stainless Steel
Hotwire reels: Timeless
Farm truck: F350 Super Duty, 6.7L with Banks performance and Pro Comp suspension
Tractor: Kubota L3560 Limited Edition
RTV: Kubota X1140
Mower: TORO Titan 60”
Winch: Champion Power Equipment 1000427 12K
Chainsaw: Stihl MS251C
Log splitter: County Line 25ton
Wood chipper/shredder: DK2 Power OPC533
20 Volt tools: Dewalt
Apiary : Layens insulated 20 frame hive

[@quackersplatfarm]

Did those small plastic frames screw onto the new big wooden frames okay?

[@appalachianheartsong5487]

Yes, but it is a bit tricky given that the frames were actively being used as brood frames. I got lucky and hit the frames right on the center rib with the screw so they were quite secure. The biggest issue I had was my own hesitancy in pulling the frames out of the box. I kept thinking they would stop using them if I moved those frames further away from the core hive, but I finally just had to sacrifice what was on them which I should have done earlier. Waiting allowed the hive beetles and wax moths a place to escape to, between the temporary 2x4 insert and the hive box.