Texas and how many deep brood boxes?

[johnwm73]

I was just wondering how many brood boxes I should be using in Texas. I live about an hour north of Dallas. I am using 2 brood boxes this year. But If i can make it with one and a super that would be better. I also thought about using 2 supers for my next hive. I have 4 deep boxes that I need to use somewhere though before I go to using all medium supers so any input would be helpful. I want to make sure they have enough room to store what they need for winter.

[Ross]

I'm an hour northeast of Dallas.  I use all mediums.  I have successfully overwintered everything from 3 frame nucs on up.  In a very small box you need to feed periodically.  A single medium will overwinter on it's own if it has sufficient stores.  2-3 boxes is ideal.  You can cut down your deeps to mediums.  It's much easier before you put them in service. 

[kattz]

 I have a standard brood box :? whatever that maybe and i too was wondering if i should add another on top  or go with a medium honey super? I live west of Dallas in Greenwood which is Wise county/

[johnwm73]

I appreciate the information. On my current 2 hives I am going to stick to the 2 brood boxes i am currently using for overwintering and then on my hives next year I will probably go to the medium super using 2 on each of those hives for overwintering. that way I can use the supers all the way through for brood and supers and have one frame and foundation size for all.

[Ross]

As I said, I use all mediums.  I like having only one frame size to deal with, and I like the fact that they are lighter. 

[kattz]

If you just use 1 deep super and then shallows on top do you still harverst any honey or do you leave the mediums on for wintering?

[Ross]

Most people that run deeps here winter on 1 1/2.