This is how I’ve been working to solve the winter problem. Roughly 2 inch insulation on sides and top but still using Langstroth frames. Didn’t do the bottom last year and that’s why I think 2/3 of the nucs didn’t make it. #bees #grownostr
Might try horizontal hives… also, maybe stuff with raw wool instead of foam board if possible. If it gets really cold where you are, might also want much deeper frames.
Discussion
I agree that horizontal hives with the longer frames would be a good idea - but right now each hive is interchangable with the others. If I build a layens hive, and it has issues, it will be more difficult to move bees from another hive over. Once you start down the langstroth path, it's hard to change.
That’s what I’ve heard. Getting started at 53… so, can pick and choose. I’ve heard podcasts from a lady who has spent 15 years standardizing on langstroth mediums and she tried one Layens and loves it but hard to change with so much invested in the first style.
Maybe start off small, and as you need or want more in the future, transition? New to it all, so maybe I am just speaking crazy :)