When to add new supers?

[Richard M]

How full with brood/stores should the top box be before adding the next empty super?

It's Spring here and things are starting to pick up; I've got 6 frames out of an 8 frame box full; I don't want to add the next one too soon but I don't want to tip them over the edge into swarming mode either.

[KeyLargoBees]

I believe 80% is the rule....6 frames out of 8 is about right it would seem especially if things are ramping up and a flow is either on or about to start.

[DeepCreek]

Typically, with the 80% rule the bees are reluctant to draw out those last one or two frames and just move up.  When I add another box I also move the outside undrawn frames in.  If your frames are already drawn then this wouldn't apply.

[sc-bee]

Actually I believe it is usually quoted as the 70% rule. But remember bees don't read the rules  But if a flow is on and the hive is booming supering early is no big issue, But supering too late can be. So stay ahead of the bees. Keep the brood nest open.