Monday, February 27, 2012

Beekeeping 101

Guess what I did this weekend? Here's a hint....
I went to Beekeeping School! I've been contemplating beekeeping for about six months since my friend told me about her amazing experiences.  I found an accomplice, my mom, and headed to bee school to learn more. At the end of the day, I was completely sold on the idea, shopping catalogs and planning where to put my hives.

We each decided that we'll have one hive each on her property - away from kids and more resources for the bees.

Basic hive...pretty unsuspecting!

This beehive was being raffled off.
Some beekeepers paint their hives,
especially if they have more than one
to keep bees at the correct hive. 
I'd love to have more but it's quite an expensive hobby! The hives themselves cost anywhere from $100 - $250, plus equipment ($100+) and to order your nuc (3 lb. package of 10,000 bees with queen!) is about $90. Clearly it'd be cheaper to find a swarm. And, yes, I'm completely serious about finding a swarm because we now own this...


Now, who wants honey? 

4 comments:

Jenny Sherrill said...

Me! Me! I want honey! I want to come to your mom's house and see your bees (when you get them)! But no, I think I'm afraid to help much... Sigh.

Jill said...

Oh my! I LOVE honey. I would not be brave enough to keep bees, but I gotta say, I give you props! Also, your mom looks rocking in the beekeeper suit! :)

LNo said...

I should mention that surplus honey doesn't usually come until the 2nd year unless we can create a monster hive. But good things come to those who wait :)

Grandma Phyllis said...

This activity I will watch from afar but will use any extra honey you might get. Wow, maple syrup and now honey. How sweet can life get?