HillStreet
Veteran Member
I am thinking about getting a couple of hives. I have a small orchard and thing bees would be a benefit, possibly selling honey would be a plus too. Any advice?
Anybody Do Beekeeping?
- Thread starter HillStreet
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smstonypoint
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Beekeeper Associations in most states offer beekeeping classes. Here the link for Maine: Bee Schools - Maine State Beekeepers Association.
Steve
Steve
OP
HillStreet
Veteran Member
Thanks for the reference Steve.
prichard
Veteran Member
In addition to state associations there are a lot of local groups. My wife is taking a class right now. A friend found another local group and got a lot of help and mentoring.
bcjmmac
Silver Member
We have hives & enjoy them, but they need care & cost time + $ to maintain which really isn’t covered by what you get selling honey.
If you’re mainly concerned about pollination, mason bees & bumblebees are a more effective option as they are native & are active in cooler temperatures. Only real costs are building/buying a few houses.
Orchard mason bee reading Keeping Orchard Mason Bees
Bumble bees Bumblebee nest boxes and nest sites
If you’re mainly concerned about pollination, mason bees & bumblebees are a more effective option as they are native & are active in cooler temperatures. Only real costs are building/buying a few houses.
Orchard mason bee reading Keeping Orchard Mason Bees
Bumble bees Bumblebee nest boxes and nest sites
forgeblast
Elite Member
I used to run a warre hive, a bear took it down and smashed it flat.
Biobees.com
and
beesource.com are great resources. Also PSU has a great article on fencing for bears.
Biobees.com
and
beesource.com are great resources. Also PSU has a great article on fencing for bears.
fried1765
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Check out the Walter T. Kelley Co. to get an idea of supply costs.
Beekeeping Equipment & Services - Kelley Beekeeping
You could also ask them to mail you one of their catalogs.
Beekeeping Equipment & Services - Kelley Beekeeping
You could also ask them to mail you one of their catalogs.
KYErik
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I have currently have two hives and have had bees for the last 7-8 years. I suggest you start off with 2 hives. If one gets in trouble, you can always swap in some brood/eggs from the other hive as "reinforcements" or to replace a queen. On average, I lave lost 33% of my hives each year (Read up on varroa mites) It is rewarding but sometimes painful.
I agree with others- try to see if you can join a beekeepers group. There are also some good youtube videos on beekeeping.
I agree with others- try to see if you can join a beekeepers group. There are also some good youtube videos on beekeeping.