If supers hold 10 frames, why do some beekeepers use 9?
Using nine frames in honey supers has a definite advantage when it comes time to extract your honey. Some beekeepers use only eight! For one, even though there is the same amount of honey there are less frames to extract. Also, if you are using a decapping knife it is much easier to cut off the cappings as the comb is wider and the cappings extend beyond the edges of the frame. However, if frames of foundation are placed in the super, you should always use 10 frames. If you don’t the bees will create burr comb to fill the space between the frames (which is too big… remember the 3/8″ bee space?). If you’ve got frames of already-drawn comb, try using 9 in the super next time. I think you’ll be impressed!
