Can they not also build various-sized worker cells as
> they see  fit?

All foundation is is simply a pattern. I used to keep a plasticell worker 
brood frame in my office which was drawn drone cells on both sides ( over 
the worker cell pattern). The only frame I ever looked at in which the bees 
*completely* disregarded the pattern.

If you look in one of my hives you will most likely see around 10% of the 
cells drone and all are made over a worker cell plastic foundation pattern.

I have to scrape down frames with too much ( in my opinion) drone comb all 
the time. All done on plastic worker foundation.

I care less what the *experts* say about the amount of drone comb the bees 
need to be *happy* bees. I try to keep 10% and under drone comb in the hive. 
Dee Lusby has said on BEE-L before she tries to keep drone cells 10% and 
under .


I also dislike  plastic frames for a couple of reasons which do not apply to 
the hobby beekeeper. I use wood with a plastic insert.

The last time I bought a load of used brood boxes I told the Hispanics to 
cull all plastic frames but they did not cull every one ( worked for the 
seller) so it took me awhile to cull and remove from the operation. I really 
dislike a hive with a mix of wood and plastic frames.

bob 

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