Hive Stands measurements depend on your space available, aesthetic preference and number of hives. Bee Box Length is 22 inches, the minimum length for a 1 hive stand is  24 inches or double the size to 48 inches which would allow space next to the hive to hold the beebox that is removed during inspections so that it’s not on the ground (but that’s not completely necessary).

The width of the stand base should allow for air flow (slotted wood) to prevent moisture and mold on the hive.

Q. How high should my hive stand be?

A. While this is heavily dependant on your stature, an ideal height for a hive stand is approximately 18in off of the ground. Unless you are 6’5″, this height will be ideal for working your hives without destroying your back. If you have kept bees in the past, you know full well that this hobby does rely on core strength, saving the health of your back is essential. Stands at 18in, make the hives easy to work, easy to manipulate boxes and are not too tall when the strong honey flow arrives and you have two honey supers on top of your brood boxes.

Now on to the construction of the hive stand

This stand was designed with three to four hives in mind but will suit two hives just fine. Also, I would highly recommend the usage of Pressure Treated “PT” wood to slow the wood rotting from the weather. You will also want to make sure to keep the stands level, as you want to ensure that your hives are level.

Materials Needed:
Qty. 2 – 2in x 8in x 10ft
Qty. 1 – 2in x 4in x 8ft
Qty. 1 – 4in x 4in x 6ft
Qty. 1 – Box of outdoor deck screws ~30
Qty. 1 – Bag of play sand (Used for leveling stand)(optional)

– Cut the “4in x 4in x 6ft” into four 18in sections, these are the legs of the stand.
– Cut each of the “2in x 8in x 10ft” into two 95in sections, these are the outer rails.
– The remaining cuts from the “2in x 8in x 10ft” will act as the end caps.
– Cut 1in off of the “2in x 4in x 8ft”, this will be the mid-rib of the hive stand.

Extra materials but not necessary:
– Mulch or rock for under the hive stands
– Weed barrier for the hive stands to be placed over
– Stain or exterior latex paint