5 Frame Deep Nuc Box - Unassembled Woodenware
A 5-frame nuc box gives a small colony a right-sized home — close quarters that a few thousand bees can keep warm and defend while they build up. This one ships unassembled in select-grade yellow pine, so you assemble and paint it to match the rest of your equipment. Use it to start a split, install a package, raise a queen, or overwinter a small colony.
Features
- Holds 5 frames — choose deep or medium to match the equipment you already run
- Select-grade yellow pine with few, tight knots
- Finger-jointed corners for strength and a larger glue surface
- Reinforced frame rest with a full-depth finger at the top for solid frame support
- Ships flat and unassembled — you assemble, fasten, and paint
How it works in real life
A nuc is where a lot of beekeeping actually happens: catching a swarm, banking a queen, or growing a split into a full colony before moving it up into a ten-frame box. Because the cavity is small, bees draw comb and build up faster than they would in an empty full-size box.
Assemble the corners with waterproof glue and nails or staples, then prime and paint the outside to protect the wood. Leave the interior bare — bees coat it with propolis on their own.
Before you order
- Ships unassembled and unpainted — you supply glue, fasteners, and paint.
- Choose deep or medium to match the frames you already run.
- Frames and foundation are not included.
- Sized for standard 5-frame Langstroth equipment.
Pairs Well With
- Acorn Plastic Foundation — foundation for the frames you put in the nuc
- Plastic Boardman Entrance Feeder — feed a small colony while it builds up
Specifications
- Capacity: 5 frames
- Sizes: deep or medium
- Material: select-grade yellow pine
- Joinery: finger-jointed corners; reinforced frame rest with full-depth finger
- Assembly: unassembled (flat pack)
FAQ
Should I get deep or medium?
Match the frame size you already run so the nuc's frames are interchangeable with your hives.
Does it come assembled?
No — it ships unassembled and unpainted. Glue and fasten the joints, then prime and paint the exterior.
Are frames included?
No. Frames and foundation are sold separately.
Can I overwinter a colony in it?
Yes. The small cavity is easier for a modest colony to keep warm, which is part of why nucs overwinter well in many climates.