The Bee Supply Monthly

Beehive management is crucial for maintaining a healthy and thriving colony. One of the key aspects of beehive management is reversing brood boxes, a technique that can help ensure the bee colony’s health and prevent issues such as overcrowding and swarming.

When you are first starting out in beekeeping, the question of which hive configuration (Nuc, Package Bees, Full- Size Hive) can be a confusing one. Watch as our expert gives us some very good tips on how to make that decision a bit easier.

Starting beekeeping is an exciting and rewarding journey, but as a beginner, choosing the right way to start your colony is crucial. When it comes to purchasing bees for your first hive, you typically have three main options: a nuc, package bees, or a full-size hive. Each option has its pros and cons, and the decision you make will affect your beekeeping experience and success in the long run. 

If you're considering making the leap to full-time beekeeping or expanding your current hobby into a beekeeping business, you're not alone. Many aspiring beekeepers wonder whether it's worth it to leave a regular job and dive into the world of bees. While the idea of "money in beekeeping" is often joked about, the truth is, there is real potential for profit if you're resourceful and dedicated.

The Varroa mite is considered the number one cause of death in honey bee colonies worldwide. When Varroa mites were discovered in the United States in 1987, beekeepers didn’t have the effective treatments we now possess. Fast forward to today, and we have developed efficient tools to manage Varroa mites—small, tick-like creatures that are highly destructive. Beekeepers now have treatment options that cater to various preferences, including mechanical, organic, and chemical methods.

Beekeepers, often think of pests as Varroa mites, small hive beetles, and wax moths, but pests can also include wildlife and livestock. While these are not daily threats to honey bees, they can be significant in certain areas, and knowing how to manage them is key to successful beekeeping.