Installation
Now for the first big challenge – how do I put bees into my brand new, shiny hives? This is your first big challenge. Hopefully, you’ve watched all the videos […]
getting started
Resources
Scientific Beekeeping – Randy Oliver’s site. This is a very good, pragmatic resource for issues relevant to our climate and locale. He is up in Grass Valley, CA. California Master
Things That Can Go Wrong
As with farming or raising livestock, there are pests and diseases that can affect your hive’s health. Researchers are learning more about bee health every day. Please invest some time
Schedule
Winter-Jan Talk to your neighbors!! It’s scary and tough, but it’s important to get your neighbors on board in advance. Read beginner books. Take our classes. Get your hive ready
Working With Your Bees
Bees are hardwired to dislike and attack bears and other furry creatures that tend to raid their hives for honey. So, don’t dress like a bear: Wear light or white-colored
Budget
Approximate budget (2024): Suit and gloves $100-250 Smoker & fuel $40-65 Hive stand $0-100 10 frame beginner kits $200-250 Misc $100 Bees $200-300 Total $700-1100 A great, lower cost alternative
Getting Started
Reasons to NOT get bees You will get stung. Expense (see below for an example budget). Requires a time commitment, especially when the weather is good. Physical – hive boxes