Anybody Do Beekeeping?

[HillStreet]

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?

 

[smstonypoint]

Beekeeper Associations in most states offer beekeeping classes. Here the link for Maine: Bee Schools - Maine State Beekeepers Association.


Steve

 

[HillStreet]

Thanks for the reference Steve.

 

[prichard]

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]

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

 

[forgeblast]

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.

 

[fried1765]

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.

 

[JRobyn]

Yes, wife and FIL do. They can be expensive and frustrating. Keeping a couple of hives going successfully takes some effort!

Totally agree on checking into any local groups to help get started.

 

[rhunt]

As mentioned above, Kelly is a real good supplier of beekeeping supplies and reasonably priced. Bob

 

[KYErik]

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.