Managing beehives is a year-round task; however, the level of work and time required will vary widely with seasonal changes. Learn what you can do to help your bees not just survive, but thrive.
Spring beehive management is important for beekeepers and bees alike. Clean up from winter and get surviving colonies set up to thrive. Feed, if necessary, watch out for potential swarming, install new bees and give your bees additional space as needed.
Before spending a lot of money on honey bees and beekeeping equipment, make sure you have a suitable location beekeeping. Here’s are some things you should consider when deciding where to place a beehive.
Although several insects make honey, it is mainly associated with the western honey bee, the most common species of honey bee used for honey production worldwide. So, what is honey?
Set up your beehive in advance so you can install the bees as soon as possible after they arrive. A starting Langstroth hive only needs a bottom board, entrance reducer, one deep brood box, and the inner and outer covers. Adding a brood box between the covers provides room for a top feeder.
Essential beekeeping starter kits should include a deep hive box with a bottom board, covers, frames, foundation, essential tools, and some protective gear. As your colonies grow, you will need additional hive components and supplies available in a more expensive beginning beekeeping kit.
There are 3 major types of hives: Langstroth, Warré and horizontal hives like a Top Bar hive. We describe how they each work including pros and cons and why we think you should start with Langstroth.
Beekeeping protective clothing consists of veils to protect your eyes and face; beekeeping suits and jackets for most of your body; gloves for hands; and boots for feet and ankles. The amount of protective clothing you wear depends on your comfort level and what you are doing with the bees.