and the number of sections (super, 
story, hive body) to the hive. A 
deep hive body will contain from 
13,000 to 20,000 bees. At the higher 
number, when the hive is opened, 
bees will quickly appear to “boil 
over” and*cover the tops of the 
frames. 
Recommendations made in this 
bulletin for a given number of 
colonies per acre are based on 
strong colonies in hives of two or 
more stories for late spring or 
summer crops. These should contain 
25,000 bees in 16 to 18 frames and 
brood on at least 6 to 12 frames. 
Very early in the season, a single- 
story hive, or one with one deep 
plus one shallow section, can 
contain enough bees and brood to 
get the job done. While most 
beekeepers can be relied upon to 
supply strong colonies, it makes 
sense to check that colonies being 
rented are strong. Weak colonies at 
bargain prices are a poor investment. 
They may not pollinate the crop 
effectively; therefore, yields and 
quality may suffer. 
Estimating Colony Strength 
In some States, it is possible to get 
help in evaluating colony strength 
from county or State bee inspectors. 
A reasonably strong two-story colony of honey bees. 
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