Hobbies And Interests
Hives and Equipment
The Langstroth hive is the most popular and an industry standard. You will need full protective gear, including a hat, veil, coveralls and gloves. A bee smoker generates smoke and keeps bees calm while the hive is open.
Size and Location
Place hives where they'll receive full sun, an unobstructed entrance and a nearby water source. Beehives require limited outdoor space as long as they are at a distance from your neighbor's property and concealed by high fences or bushes, forcing the bees to fly above people's heads.
Acquiring Bees
Get live bees from apiarists or equipment suppliers; nucleus colonies are recommended for beginners while established colonies are better for experienced apiarists. You can also collect bee swarms by capturing them in a box with a tight cover and transferring them to an empty hive.
Colony Health
Apiary registration is available in all states to help prevent exposure of your bee colonies to pesticides and harmful chemicals. It also gives you access to an apiary inspector who will inspect your hive and colony for parasites and diseases.
Beekeeper Training
Many universities, beekeeping associations and individual apiarists offer classes or training in how to properly manage and care for bee colonies.