What is the difference between a nuc and a full hive?
A nuc (nucleus colony) is a smaller, starter colony—typically 5–6 frames—with a laying queen, brood, food, and enough bees to expand. A full hive is a complete, larger setup with brood boxes and supers, designed for peak population and honey production. Most beginners start with a nuc and transfer to a full hive as the colony grows.
| Topic | Nuc | Full hive |
|---|---|---|
| Frames | 5–6 | ~11+ brood + supers |
| Purpose | Starter/expansion | Production/overwintering |
| Weight/handling | Light & portable | Heavier; more components |
| Time to manage | Lower initially | Higher at peak season |
Next steps:
- Start with an Overwintered Nuc and scale up.
- Learn the process: Hive How-Tos.
- Related Q&A: How long can you keep bees in a nuc before moving them?
FAQs
Do nucs always include a laying queen?
Yes, sold nucs include a mated, laying queen unless clearly stated otherwise.
When should I move from a nuc to a full hive?
When the bees have drawn all of the comb and cover 70% of the frames.
Can I keep a colony in a nuc overwinter?
It’s possible with careful management, but full hives are preferred for wintering in the UK.
