A frame holder is a simple device for setting frames down or hanging them temporarily during work.

Why it is needed

At an inspection the first frame has to go somewhere. Without a holder it ends up:

• On the ground — it gets dirty, and soil in the hive is a contamination route
• Leaned against the hive — it falls and the comb breaks
• In the grass — bees are trapped and the queen can be lost

That last weighs most: most queens that are lost are lost to the beekeeper.

The forms

• Hanging bracket: Hooks onto the hive rim; frames hang beside it
• Frame stand: An upright holding several frames
• An empty box: The simplest alternative; frames in, cover over

Why an empty box often suffices

It holds frames upright, out of sun and wind, and with a cover also out of sight of robbers.

During a dearth that last is no small matter: loose comb in the open is the commonest trigger of robbing.

Practical points

• Set frames upright, not flat; flat comb sags and breaks
• Keep them in the shade; sun melts fresh comb
• Return them in the same order
• Do not leave them out longer than necessary

Hygiene

The holder contacts honey, wax and propolis. Clean regularly, and do not use between hives where disease is suspected.

Working over the hive

Holding frames over the hive rather than beside it means bees that fall return — and a queen that runs off the comb does not disappear into the grass.