Top Tips for Beginning Beekeepers

Start small

As with any new hobby, start small with two hives instead of 20. Why two, instead of one? If you have two hives, you can compare and contrast the bees’ behavior to ensure they are healthy and normal.

Don’t skimp on the apiary (beehive): Buy quality products so that you feel confident in your hobby.

Find a bee mentor

There are Facebook groups, local gatherings and lots of ways to connect with other beekeepers. Perhaps you can strike up a friendship with the honey retailer at your local Farmer’s Market.

Savor the harvest

Getting a small amount of fresh, pure honey can be time-consuming. If you are cooking or baking and the recipe calls for a cup of honey, don’t be afraid to use honey purchased from a local beekeeper, or even from the grocery (but make sure you are purchasing pure honey—some store-bought honey contains fillers like corn syrup, rice or even beet juice).

Use your home-grown honey on biscuits so you can savor every bite.

Wear the suit

Wear proper beekeeping attire so you don’t get stung. Plus, it is likely the bee that stings you will not survive.

Place your apiary properly

Put your hive near an abundant source of nectar and pollen. The more they have to eat, the healthier your bees will be.

Do your research

Your hive won’t thrive without a healthy queen. Know the role of the drones (to impregnate the queen) and the role of the workers (to do everything else). Know how to tell if your hive is healthy and vibrant or needs treatment.

Learn more:

Supplies: lehmans.com/category/beekeepingsupplies

Tools and Gear: lehmans.com/category/beekeeping-tools-and-gear

Frames: lehmans.com/category/frames-and-foundation