Hi there Prairie Girl, Welcome to beekeeping.
Pest and disease management is a big concern to all beekeepers. Scheduled inspections and preventive measures are essential for controlling mites, swarms and general well being of the bees. Feeding syrups, fondant and candy may be necessary during parts of the year when nectar flows are low or when they do not have enough stores for raising brood or to survive through the winter. I would suggest do a lot of reading, join a local bee club, find a mentor to help you. I made all the mistakes when I started beekeeping in assuming the bees would just fine fending for themselves but those days are long gone. I lost all four hives that first year. There is so much to learn and every year I become a better beekeeper.
Here's a well thought out and easily manageable horizontal hive similar to a TBH but uses Langstroth frames. It's worth a look.
http://www.honeybeesuite.com/t...
Plans are available for purchase or you can buy ready made - link on right of the page.
Pros: easy to manage, easy to access, comb stays straight and stronger if using natural comb, can also use plastic or wax foundations, durable, good insulation, ventilation and water proof, can harvest excess honey without destroying comb.
Cons: a bit difficult to construct, more expensive than a Kenya TBH, not particularity easy to move but no TBH is.
I wish you good luck in this adventure you're about to take. There will be ups and downs but the conquest and satisfaction will make it all worth while.
Tom
