Welcome to the World of Beekeeping

Discover the art and science of raising honeybees and become part of a sustainable future

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What is Beekeeping?

Understanding the ancient art of apiculture

Apiculture

Beekeeping, officially called apiculture, is the practice of raising bee colonies, usually in artificial hives. It's an ancient practice that continues to thrive in modern times.

Urban Friendly

You can keep bees anywhere - even in cities like New York! Bees forage up to 5 miles for food. Rooftops, balconies, and small gardens can all host hives.

Space Efficient

You only need about 16 square feet for a single hive. A small corner of a yard or garden is sufficient to start your beekeeping journey.

About Honeybees

Honeybees are small, social insects that produce honey and live in colonies with a queen bee and worker bees. They're critical pollinators for flowers, fruits, and vegetables. In fact, one-third of our diets come from pollinating species like honeybees, and we'd lose more than 90% of our crop yield without them.

Important Note: Honeybees are docile and gentle to humans. They only become aggressive when their hive is threatened. Female honeybees have stingers but can only sting once - and will die shortly after.

Benefits of Beekeeping

Why people choose to become beekeepers

Fresh Honey

Produce your own fresh, local honey that's unique to your location and season. It's healthier and more flavorful than commercial options.

Environmental Impact

Your bees contribute to local ecosystems, pollinating flowers, plants, and gardens in your area, helping with crop production.

Mental Health

Research shows beekeeping promotes relaxation, provides a sense of togetherness with nature, and offers pride in contributing to the greater good.

Community Building

Connect with local beekeepers, join clubs, and inspire others. Beekeeping is a surprisingly social and rewarding activity.

Outdoor Hobby

Spend more time outdoors doing something you enjoy while connecting with nature in a meaningful way.

Income Potential

While not highly lucrative as a hobby, there's potential to make money from honey sales and potentially grow into commercial beekeeping.

How to Start Beekeeping

Your step-by-step guide to beginning your beekeeping journey

1

Research Thoroughly

Before purchasing bees, do comprehensive research. The more prepared you are, the better you'll be able to anticipate and respond to your colony's needs.

  • Take a beginner's beekeeping course
  • Look for reputable online resources and videos
  • Check USDA resources and educational materials
2

Join the Community

Connect with experienced beekeepers and local organizations for support, mentorship, and region-specific advice.

  • Seek out local beekeeper associations
  • Find an experienced mentor
  • Join local beekeeping clubs
  • Get access to community equipment
3

Check Local Regulations

Make sure you comply with all local rules before starting your hive.

  • Check if you need to register hives
  • Review rules about bee types and hive placement
  • Verify limits on number of hives allowed
4

Manage Expectations

The first year is about learning, setting up, feeding bees, and helping them survive their first winter. Don't expect large honey harvests immediately.

  • Focus on colony health and growth
  • Learn to respond to bee needs
  • Help bees survive the first winter
  • Give it at least 3 seasons before deciding if it's right for you

Essential Equipment

What you'll need to start beekeeping (approximately $500 per hive)

Protective Gear

Full Suit or Bee Jacket

Essential for protection. Wear as much gear as makes you feel safe and comfortable.

Veil

Protects your face and head from bee stings.

Gloves

Protects your hands during hive inspections.

Essential Tools

Smoker

Masks the pheromone bees use for attacking/stinging. Essential for hive inspections.

Hive Tool

Multipurpose tool for prying apart boxes and frames and scraping off propolis.

Hive Kit (Langstroth Recommended)

Bottom Board

The base of your hive structure.

Brood Boxes

Where the queen lays eggs and bees raise brood.

Frames

Foundation for bees to build comb.

Inner & Outer Covers

Protects the hive from elements.

Getting Your Bees

Purchase Locally

Buy from local suppliers as a package of bees and a queen, or as a nucleus colony (nuc).

Avoid Shipping

Never have bees shipped to you - pick them up locally for their safety and health.

Nuc vs Package

A nuc (nucleus colony) includes an already-established colony, which can be easier for beginners.

Quality Tip: Don't buy the cheapest equipment - it won't last more than a season. However, you don't need the most expensive either. Mid-priced, quality products offer the best value.

Maintaining Your Bees

How to keep your colonies healthy and thriving

Regular Inspections

Inspect hives every 10-14 days during warm months, but don't overdo it. Opening hives can be disruptive, especially for new colonies adjusting to their home.

What to Check

  • Signs of pests (especially Varroa mites)
  • Healthy brood patterns
  • Adequate space for growth
  • Food stores and nutrition

Record Keeping

Keep consistent records in a notebook. Write down updates from each inspection. This helps you recognize patterns that require your attention.

The 7/10 Rule

When 7 out of 10 frames are being actively worked, it's time to add more space. Use a "super" (extra box) to collect honey and allow the colony to grow.

Pest Management

Varroa mites are a major threat. Learn to monitor and manage them using tools like alcohol wash to assess mite levels.

Safety Rules

  1. Stay calm
  2. Wear your protective gear
  3. Use your smoker

Getting stung is part of beekeeping, but it becomes minimal as you get accustomed to working with your bees.

Did You Know?

Studies show that bees recognize their keepers! Spending time interacting with your hives is an important factor in keeping your bees (and you) calm during maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from beginner beekeepers

You may be looking at about $500 per hive to get started, including safety gear, equipment, tools, and bees. However, once the initial costs are covered, it becomes more affordable over time. Give it at least three seasons before deciding if it's right for you.

Not really. The costs go down over time, and you'll be checking your hives about once every two weeks on average. The time commitment varies depending on the season, but it's manageable for most people.

While there's not a lot of money in hobby beekeeping, there is potential to earn income from honey sales and related products. Commercial beekeeping (maintaining hundreds or thousands of colonies) can be more profitable but requires significant investment and expertise.

You only need about 16 square feet for a single hive. A small corner of a yard or garden is sufficient. Bees can even be kept in urban areas on rooftops and balconies, as they forage up to 5 miles for food.

Getting stung is part of beekeeping, but it's typically minimal, especially as you become more experienced. Honeybees are docile and gentle - they only become aggressive when their hive is threatened. Wearing proper protective gear, staying calm, and using a smoker greatly reduce the risk.

The standard Langstroth hive is recommended for beginners. It's widely used, has plenty of compatible equipment available, and is well-documented in educational materials.

During your first year, focus on helping your colony grow strong enough to survive winter. You typically shouldn't expect to harvest honey until your second year, once the colony is well-established.

While formal training isn't required, it's highly recommended to take a beginner's beekeeping course, join a local beekeeping association, and find a mentor. Thorough research and preparation before getting bees will significantly increase your success.

Get in Touch

Have questions? We're here to help you start your beekeeping journey

Email Us

info@beefarm.com

Call Us

+254701329344

Visit Us

123 Honey Lane, Bee City, BC 12345