Splitting Bee Colonies
2025-04-14
Splitting a colony is an effective method to control swarming and increase the number of families. Here’s how to do it correctly.
Splitting colonies is an apicultural technique that involves separating a portion of the bees, brood, and resources from a strong hive to create a new family. It helps control swarming and expand the apiary.
When to split
- In spring or early summer, when the colony is expanding rapidly.
- When there is an abundance of bees, brood, and reserves.
How to split
1. Select 3–5 frames: 1–2 with brood, 1 with honey stores, and 1–2 empty frames.
2. Move them to a new hive placed at least 10 meters (or 30 feet) away or keep it closed for 2 days.
3. Add a mated queen or a queen cell to the new colony.
4. Provide initial feeding if necessary.
Types of splitting
- Simple split: Half the colony with a new queen in one hive.
- Walk-away split: No queen, leaving the bees to raise a new one.
- Horizontal splitting: Used in vertical hives like Dadant or Langstroth.
Benefits
- Increased number of families.
- Swarming control.
- Better genetic and health management of the apiary.
Knowing the right timing and methods makes colony splitting a powerful tool for sustainable and productive beekeeping.
