Backyard bees

[dwbonfire]

Hubby and I are taking a beekeeping course right now. We have our first two packages of bees on order and will get two hives set up for them shortly. This will be fun! We use SO much honey every year it just makes sense to make our own.

im not sure where your located, north or south carolina? where are you taking your course? i'd love to find one close enough, i almost signed up for one but it was going to be over an hour away :/ and on a weeknight so by the time i had someone to watch my son i wouldnt be able to make it there in time, ugh!

 

[Beekissed]

Topbar but currently bee-less. Can't wait to get bees again! Good topic and I hope to read how everyone else does their bees.

 

[SmallFarmGirl]

So are we starting a section a bees?

 

[SmallFarmGirl]

Topbar but currently bee-less. Can't wait to get bees again! Good topic and I hope to read how everyone else does their bees.

Where do you get bees???? Might sound silly,

 

[Beekissed]

I usually buy mine online and have them delivered. The post office LOVE those kind of packages!

 

[SmallFarmGirl]

I usually buy mine online and have them delivered. The post office LOVE those kind of packages!

They also LOVE chicks. Don't ask about the time my friend bought 100.

 

[Beekissed]

My local post office generally knows if it makes sound and/or moves, it's my package(small town).

So...how many people have tried the Barefoot Beekeeper-type beeking? No treating for mites, little as possible interference with the natural way of bees, etc.

 

[zzGypsy]

Topbar but currently bee-less. Can't wait to get bees again! Good topic and I hope to read how everyone else does their bees.

Where do you get bees???? Might sound silly,

you can order from an apiary and go pick them up or have them shipped.
you can buy from a local beekeeper.
you can collect a wild swarm or do a cutout to remove bees from somewhere people don't want them living.

I recommend local beekeeper if you can, because often they'll be willing to teach you a bit.

find your local beekeeper's club, they are always helpful and a hugely useful resource.

 

[zzGypsy]

My local post office generally knows if it makes sound and/or moves, it's my package(small town).

So...how many people have tried the Barefoot Beekeeper-type beeking? No treating for mites, little as possible interference with the natural way of bees, etc.

all-natural beekeeper here...

I've worked alot with local feral bees, that's an advantage as you're working with survivor genetics that do well in your area and make it easier to use less invasive methods. not always sucessful, and it has its challenges, but it's my preference and what I do.

 

[zzGypsy]

BTW, natural is different than hands-off...
that is, I'll treat for mites if I have them, but I use organic-as-possible methods and mechanical methods instead of commercial chemical methods. using a puffer with powdered sugar is time consuming but effective if done correctly, and will help reduce the mite load. you can use thyme oil, and other 'natural' concoctions for some things. so it's not that I don't treat, its that I don't treat with a chemical I wouldn't want in my honey.

it does mean the bees have to do more of the work of staying healthy, and some aren't up to the task. I work with and propigate those that are and let nature cull the ones that aren't. but I still help... so that's what I'd call natural.

and... no barefeet here! I suit up for the bee yard.