Knowledge Base

1. What is beekeeping?

Beekeeping, or apiculture, is the management of honey bee colonies. Beekeepers maintain the hives to collect products such as honey, beeswax, propolis, royal jelly, and pollen. Additionally, they help promote the health and sustainability of the bee population. Bees are crucial pollinators for crops and ecosystems, making beekeeping an environmentally beneficial activity. To start beekeeping, you need the right equipment, such as a hive, smoker, protective gear, and bees. Proper education on hive maintenance and bee behavior is essential to ensure the bees’ health and productivity. At Hive & Harvest, we offer educational courses and resources for new and experienced beekeepers.

2. Why are bees important to the environment?

Bees play an essential role as pollinators. They help fertilize plants by transferring pollen between flowers, allowing them to produce fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, and legumes. These plants also feed our animals, so if it were not for bees we would not have meat and dairy products either. Without bees, many plants would struggle to reproduce, leading to a reduction in biodiversity and food crops. Approximately 1/3 of the food we eat, such as almonds, apples, and blueberries, rely on pollinators like bees. In addition to food production, bees contribute to the survival of many wild plants that provide habitat and food for other wildlife. The decline in bee populations due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change poses a threat to ecosystems and food security, which is why protecting bees is crucial.

3. How do I start beekeeping?

Starting beekeeping requires research and preparation. You can see our recommended list of books for beekeepers here. First, check your local regulations, as some areas have restrictions on beekeeping. Then, start preparing yourself to keep your bees healthy by taking some beekeeping courses, like those we offer at Hive & Harvest. These classes are highly recommended to help you understand bee biology, hive management, and common challenges like pests and diseases. Once you are ready, you can invest in essential equipment such as a hive, bee suit, smoker, hive tool, and bees. You can order bees as a package, a nucleus colony (nuc), or as a full colony. Once your bees are installed, regularly inspect the hive to ensure the queen is laying eggs, check for pests or diseases, and monitor the colony’s food stores. With patience, you’ll develop the skills necessary to be a successful beekeeper. The best thing you can do before you start beekeeping, is to take our What to Know About Beekeeping BEFORE You Get Your Bees Online Course! Before you dive into the exciting world of beekeeping, make sure you’re fully prepared with our comprehensive online course. This beginner-friendly, self-paced course is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you’re ready to set up a thriving hive.

4. What are the benefits of beekeeping?

Beekeeping provides personal and environmental benefits. Personally, beekeeping allows you to produce honey, beeswax, and other products from your hive, which can be consumed or sold. Beekeeping is also an excellent way to learn about, and connect with nature and the intricate behavior of bees. Environmentally, beekeeping supports the health of bee populations, which are vital pollinators for many crops and wild plants. Additionally, maintaining healthy bee colonies helps counteract the decline in wild bee populations due to habitat loss, pesticides, and disease. Beekeeping can also provide a source of income through the sale of honey, beeswax candles, cosmetics, and pollination services.

5. What’s the difference between raw and processed honey?

Raw honey is honey that has been strained to remove impurities but has not been heated or pasteurized, preserving its natural enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients. It retains small amount of pollen, which can contribute to allergy relief for some people. Raw honey often has a cloudy appearance and may crystallize over time, which is a natural process. Processed honey, on the other hand, is usually heated and filtered to give it a smooth, clear appearance and to prevent crystallization. However, heating honey destroys many of the beneficial enzymes and reduces its antioxidant content. At Hive & Harvest, we offer only 100% raw honey to ensure you receive the full health benefits. To learn more about the difference, see our Raw vs Processed Honey blog post here.

6. How can I tell if honey is pure or adulterated?

Pure honey has certain characteristics that can help you identify its authenticity. First, it will crystallize over time, especially in cooler temperatures. Adulterated honey, often mixed with syrups or sugar solutions, tends to remain liquid for extended periods. To test at home, place a spoonful of honey in a glass of water. Pure honey will sink to the bottom without dissolving, while adulterated honey will mix with the water more quickly. Additionally, check for labels that specify “raw” or “unfiltered” honey, and buy from trusted sources. At Hive & Harvest, we provide high-quality, raw honey with no additives or artificial ingredients. Learn about separation and crystallization in honey in this post.

7. What is a honey bee colony?

A honey bee colony is a complex social structure consisting of three main types of bees: the queen, workers, and drones. The queen’s primary function is to lay eggs, producing up to 2,000 eggs per day during peak season. Worker bees, all females, handle tasks such as foraging for nectar and pollen, tending to the queen and larvae, and building and maintaining the hive. Drones, which are male, have the sole purpose of mating with a queen from another hive. A colony can house tens of thousands of bees, working together to build honeycomb, store honey, and protect the queen. The health and productivity of the colony depend on the coordination of these bees working together.

8. How long does a queen bee live?

A queen bee typically lives for 1 to 5 years, but her most productive egg-laying period is during the first 2 to 3 years. As she ages, her egg-laying capacity diminishes, and the colony may replace her with a new queen through a process called “supersedure.” Queen bees are the only members of the colony capable of laying fertilized eggs, and they are fed a special diet of royal jelly, which contributes to their longer lifespan. Factors such as environmental conditions, the health of the hive, and stress from pests or diseases can affect the queen’s longevity. Beekeepers often replace queens every two to three years to maintain hive productivity.

9. How do bees make honey?

Bees make honey by collecting nectar from flowers. Forager bees store nectar in a special “honey stomach” and return to the hive, where they pass the nectar to house bees through mouth-to-mouth transfer. The worker bees then reduce the moisture content of the nectar by fanning it with their wings and using enzymes from their saliva to break down the sugars. Once the nectar thickens and transforms into honey, the bees store it in hexagonal wax cells. They seal these cells with beeswax caps to preserve the honey for later consumption. Honey serves as a food source for bees during the winter and periods of low nectar availability.

10. What is beeswax?

Beeswax is a natural substance secreted by worker bees from glands on their abdomen. Bees use beeswax to build honeycomb, which serves as storage for honey, pollen, and a place for the queen to lay eggs. Beeswax has been used by humans for thousands of years in a variety of applications, from candle making to cosmetics and polishes. It is prized for its natural scent, long burn time, sootless burning, and hypoallergenic properties. In cosmetics, beeswax is often used in lip balms, lotions, and salves because it locks in moisture and provides a protective barrier for the skin.

11. What is propolis?

Propolis is a sticky, resinous substance collected by bees from tree buds and plant sap. Bees use it as a glue to seal cracks in the hive and to reinforce the structure. It has antimicrobial properties that protect the hive from bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Propolis has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used in natural health products such as tinctures, throat sprays, and skin creams.

12. What is royal jelly?

Royal jelly is a milky substance produced by worker bees and fed to all bee larvae for the first few days of their development. However, future queen bees are fed royal jelly exclusively throughout their larval stage, which enables them to develop into queens. Royal jelly is rich in nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and amino acids, making it a popular ingredient in dietary supplements and skincare products. It is believed to have numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, promoting skin health, and improving energy levels. However, this is not a plentiful resource and should be used with care and purpose.

13. How do bees communicate?

Bees communicate primarily through pheromones and the “waggle dance.” Pheromones are chemical signals that bees use to convey messages about the hive’s status, alert others to danger, or guide foragers to a food source. The queen releases pheromones that help maintain order within the hive, while workers release alarm pheromones when the hive is under threat. The waggle dance is performed by forager bees to share the location of nectar and pollen sources, or a new home, with other bees. The dance conveys the direction and distance to the food source or new home relative to the sun. Through these methods, bees can coordinate their activities and ensure the survival of the colony.

14. What is pollination?

Pollination is the process of transferring pollen from the male part (anther) of a flower to the female part (stigma) of the same or another flower, which allows fertilization to occur and seeds to form. Bees are vital pollinators, as they collect pollen while foraging for nectar, unintentionally transferring it between flowers. This process is crucial for the reproduction of many plants, including food crops such as apples, almonds, and blueberries. Without pollinators like bees, many of the foods we rely on would become scarce or even disappear. Beekeeping helps support healthy bee populations, which are essential for pollination and the environment.

15. How can I help save the bees?

There are several ways you can help save the bees. One of the most impactful actions is to avoid using pesticides in your garden, as these chemicals can be harmful to bees. Instead, opt for organic gardening methods and plant bee-friendly flowers, such as lavender, sunflowers, and clover, which provide nectar and pollen for bees. Supporting local beekeepers by purchasing raw honey and beeswax products is another way to help, as it encourages sustainable beekeeping practices. Additionally, advocating for the protection of natural habitats and supporting initiatives like Hive & Harvest’s “Adopt a Queen Bee” program can contribute to the conservation of bee populations.

16. What should I plant in my garden to attract bees?

To attract bees to your garden, plant a variety of flowers that provide nectar and pollen. Bees are particularly attracted to flowers with vibrant colors, especially blue, purple, and yellow. Some of the best bee-friendly plants include lavender, sunflowers, borage, and marigolds. You can also plant herbs like mint, thyme, and rosemary, which produce small, bee-attracting flowers. It’s important to choose plants that bloom at different times of the year to provide a consistent food source for bees. Avoid using pesticides or herbicides, as these can be harmful to bees and other pollinators. If you have to use them, spray at sunset and never on blooms.

If you would like to know what to plant in your fall garden to support bees and pollinators, check out our blog post here.

17. What is bee pollen?

Foraging bees collect pollen from flowers, pack it into small pellets, and carry it back to the hive. This is what is known as bee pollen. Once the bees process this pollen it is known as “bee bread”. Bee bread is a mixture of flower pollen, nectar, enzymes, honey, wax, and bee secretions. Bee pollen and bee bread are both a rich source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants, making it popular as a dietary supplement. It is believed to support immune function, improve energy levels, and reduce inflammation. However, individuals with pollen allergies should use caution, as bee pollen can cause allergic reactions.

18. What are the health benefits of honey?

Honey is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can benefit your health. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating wounds and burns. Honey can also soothe sore throats, improve digestion, and provide a natural energy boost. Raw honey, in particular, retains all of its natural enzymes and nutrients, as it is not processed or heated. Some people also use honey to help with seasonal allergies, as it contains trace amounts of local pollen. It can do SO much more than this short list. To learn more about what honey can do, sign up for our Honey for Medicinal Uses course! At Hive & Harvest, we offer 100% raw honey, sourced from sustainably managed hives, to ensure that you receive all of these health benefits.

19. How do bees survive the winter?

Bees survive the winter by clustering together inside the hive to keep warm. They generate heat by vibrating their flight muscles without flying, which helps maintain the temperature inside the cluster. The bees take turns moving from the outer part of the cluster to the warmer center, where the queen is kept. During the winter, bees rely on the honey and pollen they stored in the hive during the warmer months for food. Beekeepers should ensure their hives have enough honey reserves for the winter and may supplement with sugar syrup if necessary.

20. What are the different types of honey?

There are many different types of honey, each with its unique flavor, color, and texture, depending on the flowers from which the bees collected the nectar. Some popular types include wildflower honey, clover honey, orange blossom honey, and acacia honey. Each variety has distinct characteristics. For example, clover honey is light and mild, while buckwheat honey is dark and robust. Raw honey tends to have a richer flavor and more nutrients than processed honey. At Hive & Harvest, we offer a selection of high-quality, raw honey from various floral sources, allowing you to experience the diverse flavors nature provides.

21. How do I prevent bee stings?

To prevent bee stings, it’s important to remain calm around bees, as sudden movements can provoke them. Avoid wearing dark clothing or floral patterns, as bees are attracted to these colors. Strong scents, such as perfumes or scented lotions, can also attract and/or upset bees. When working with bees, beekeepers wear protective clothing, including a veil, gloves, and a bee suit, to minimize the risk of stings. Using a smoker during hive inspections can help calm the bees by masking their alarm pheromone. If a bee is flying near you, remain still or slowly move away; swatting at the bee increases the likelihood of being stung.

22. What is honeycomb?

Honeycomb is a structure made of hexagonal wax cells that bees build inside the hive. These cells serve multiple purposes, including storing honey and pollen, and providing a place for the queen to lay eggs. Honeycomb is edible and contains both honey and beeswax, offering a unique texture and flavor. Many people enjoy honeycomb as a natural sweet treat, either on its own or spread on toast or crackers. The hexagonal shape of the cells is an efficient design, as it uses the least amount of wax to store the maximum amount of honey.

23. What is a swarm of bees?

A swarm of bees is a natural occurrence when a colony becomes too large, and a portion of the bees, along with the old queen, leave the hive to find a new home. This is the way a family of bees reproduces. Swarming usually occurs in the spring or early summer when the colony is most active. While a swarm of bees can appear intimidating, they are generally not aggressive during this time, as they are focused on finding a new home. Beekeepers often collect swarms to introduce them to a new hive, helping the bees settle into a controlled environment. Swarming is a healthy sign that the colony is thriving and reproducing.

24. How do I manage pests in my beehive?

Managing pests in your beehive is crucial for maintaining the health of your colony. Some common pests include varroa mites, small hive beetles, and wax moths. Varroa mites are particularly dangerous, as they weaken the bees and spread diseases. Regular hive inspections are key to identifying and managing pests early. Beekeepers often use integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Hive & Harvest offers resources and guidance on how to keep your bees healthy and manage pests. To read more about Wax Moths, check out this post.

25. What is the difference between a worker bee and a drone?

Worker bees are female bees that perform all the tasks necessary for the colony’s survival, including foraging for nectar and pollen, feeding the queen and larvae, cleaning the hive, and producing wax to build honeycomb. Worker bees live for about 6 weeks during the active season and are the most numerous members of the colony. Drones, on the other hand, are male bees whose sole purpose is to mate with a queen from another colony. Drones do not forage or help with hive maintenance and are often expelled from the hive in the fall when food becomes scarce.

26. How do I extract honey from the hive?

To extract honey from the hive, you first need to remove the frames that contain honeycomb from the hive. A bee brush or blower can be used to remove bees from the frames. The frames are then placed in an extractor, which is a device that spins the frames to remove the honey through centrifugal force. The honey is strained to remove any debris, such as wax or bee parts, and then bottled. Generally, beekeepers should only extract honey when the bees have capped the honey cells, indicating that the moisture content is low enough for long-term storage.

27. What is honey crystallization?

Honey crystallization is a natural process that occurs when the glucose in honey separates from the water and forms crystals. This does not mean that the honey has gone bad; in fact, it is a sign that the honey is raw and unprocessed. Crystallization is influenced by the floral source of the honey, as some types of honey crystallize faster than others because of their glucose to fructose ratio. To return crystallized honey to its liquid form, simply place the jar in warm water and stir until the crystals dissolve. Take care to make sure that you honey never goes over 120° so it does not denature the enzymes that gives it medicinal properties. At Hive & Harvest, we offer raw honey that may crystallize over time, but it retains all of its natural enzymes and nutrients. Learn more about Crystallization in honey here.

28. How can I attract bees to my property?

Attracting bees to your property can be done by creating a bee-friendly habitat. Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year to provide a continuous source of nectar and pollen. Bees are particularly attracted to native plants, such as wildflowers and herbs. You can also provide a water source, such as a shallow dish with stones for bees to land on, and avoid using pesticides, as they can harm bees. Bees cannot swim, so putting stones in the water, or something on the top that floats (like old wine corks, or sliced pool noodles) in essential to prevent them from drowning.

29. What is sustainable beekeeping?

Sustainable beekeeping involves practices that prioritize the health of the bees, the environment, and the beekeeper’s operations over long-term success, without depleting resources or harming bee populations. This includes providing natural habitats for bees, avoiding harmful chemicals or pesticides, and using organic treatments for pest control. Sustainable beekeepers often focus on maintaining biodiversity by allowing bees to forage on a variety of native plants. It also means avoiding the over-harvesting of honey, leaving enough in the hive to ensure the colony has enough food for winter. At Hive & Harvest, we promote sustainable beekeeping practices to ensure the long-term health of bee populations and the environment.

30. What are the benefits of raw honey over processed honey?

Raw honey is honey that has not been heated, pasteurized, or filtered, which means it retains all of its natural enzymes, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The process of pasteurization in processed honey removes many of these beneficial compounds, leaving behind a sweetener that is primarily sugars. Raw honey contains bee pollen and propolis, which contribute to its immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Many people also find raw honey to have a richer, more complex flavor than processed honey. At Hive & Harvest, we proudly offer raw honey that is strained, not filtered, and never heated over 120° to ensure you enjoy all the natural and medicinal benefits it has to offer. To learn more about Raw vs Processed Honey, see our post here.

31. What should I do if I find a beehive in my yard?

If you discover a beehive in your yard, it’s important to remain calm and avoid disturbing the bees. Bees are typically not aggressive unless they feel threatened. Contact a local beekeeper or bee removal service to safely relocate the hive. Many beekeepers are willing to remove hives for free if they are easy to take, as they can integrate the bees into their existing colonies. If the bees are in a structure, you will need to call a professional removal service. It’s essential not to use pesticides or chemicals to kill the bees, as this can have harmful effects on the environment. Not only that, but then the honey is no longer protected by the hive, and it will melt in the heat, all kinds of animals and insects will invade the space, and it will mold and cause major problems for the structure. It is always cheapest, and best, to have the bees removed. Best for the bees, your structure, and nature as a whole.

32. How do I become a beekeeper?

Becoming a beekeeper starts with education and research. First, familiarize yourself with the basics of beekeeping by reading books, taking courses, or joining a local beekeeping association. Next, acquire the necessary equipment, such as a hive, protective gear, and tools for maintaining your bees. It’s also important to start with bees from a reputable source, such as a local beekeeper or a bee supplier. Begin by practicing hands-on skills with a mentor or during classes, learning how to inspect hives, manage pests, and harvest honey. Hive & Harvest offers beginner beekeeping courses and resources to help aspiring beekeepers succeed.

33. What are the different types of bee products?

Aside from honey, bees produce several other valuable products. Beeswax is used in candles, cosmetics, and skincare products due to its natural and moisturizing properties. Bee pollen is collected from flowers and consumed as a dietary supplement rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees from tree sap, has antimicrobial properties and is used in health supplements and natural remedies. Royal jelly, produced by worker bees to feed the queen, is prized for its potential health benefits. There are more than this list, but it is too comprehensive to provide anything but a summary here.

34. How do I harvest beeswax?

To harvest beeswax, beekeepers remove the wax cappings from honey frames during the honey extraction process. The wax cappings are collected and melted down to separate the beeswax from any impurities such as honey, pollen, or debris. This is typically done by using a double boiler or solar wax melter. Once melted, the pure beeswax is filtered and cooled, ready for use in making candles, lip balms, lotions, or other beeswax products. Beekeepers often reuse or sell the beeswax to crafters, as it is a versatile and valuable product. Hive & Harvest offers instructional guides and tools for those interested in harvesting their own beeswax.

35. Why is honey good for your skin?

Honey has been used for centuries in skincare due to its moisturizing, soothing, and healing properties. It acts as a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated. Honey’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating acne, soothing irritations, and promoting wound healing. Its antioxidants also help protect the skin from environmental damage and aging. Raw honey, in particular, is often used in face masks, cleansers, and scrubs for glowing, healthy skin. Hive & Harvest offers high-quality raw honey that can be incorporated into your skincare routine for natural beauty benefits.

36. How does a queen bee control the hive?

The queen bee plays a central role in the hive’s hierarchy by producing pheromones that regulate the behavior of the worker bees. These pheromones signal to the worker bees that the colony has a healthy and fertile queen, and they guide tasks such as foraging, hive maintenance, and caring for the young. The queen is also the only bee that lays eggs, which ensures the growth and continuation of the colony. If the queen’s pheromone production weakens, the worker bees will begin preparing for her replacement by raising a new queen. The queen’s presence and pheromones are essential to the smooth functioning of the hive.

37. What should I do if I get stung by a bee?

If you get stung by a bee, the first step is to remain calm. Immediately remove the stinger by scraping it out with a fingernail, credit card, or a similar flat object; avoid pinching the stinger, as this can squeeze more venom into the skin. Once the stinger is removed, clean the area with soap and water and apply ice to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone creams can help relieve itching and discomfort. If you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately. For most people, bee stings are a minor annoyance, but it’s always important to take precautions. Large areas of swelling are a normal reaction. Difficulty breathing is an allergic reaction. If you are stung on your left arm and you have a rash or reaction on the opposite side of your body, you are displaying an allergic reaction. Bee venom is actually used medicinally to treat many ailments like arthritis, MS, and cancer.

38. What are the different types of bees in a colony?

A honeybee colony consists of three main types (castes) of bees: the queen, worker bees, and drones. The queen is the sole egg layer, responsible for producing all the offspring in the colony. Worker bees, which are sterile females, perform all the tasks necessary to maintain the hive, such as foraging for nectar and pollen, building and cleaning the hive, and caring for the young. Drones are male bees whose only function is to mate with queens from other colonies. After mating, drones die, and those that do not mate are often expelled from the hive in the fall. Each type of bee plays a crucial role in the colony’s survival.

39. What is propolis?

Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from tree sap, buds, and other botanical sources. Bees use it to seal cracks and reinforce the hive, as well as to create a barrier against bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. Propolis has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. It is often used as a natural remedy for sore throats, colds, and minor wounds.

40. What is the lifecycle of a honeybee?

The honeybee lifecycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The queen lays eggs in honeycomb cells, and within three days, they hatch into larvae. Worker bees feed the larvae a diet of royal jelly, honey, and pollen. After about six days, the larvae spin cocoons and enter the pupal stage, during which they undergo metamorphosis. After roughly 12 days, the fully developed adult bee emerges. Worker bees live for approximately six weeks during the active season, and up to 6 months during the winter, while queens can live for up to 5 years. Drones live until they mate or are expelled from the hive.

41. What are the signs of a healthy hive?

A healthy hive has a queen that is actively laying eggs, a steady brood pattern, and plenty of worker bees engaged in foraging and hive maintenance. The presence of stored honey and pollen, along with active foraging behavior, indicates that the colony is thriving. The brood pattern should be compact and uniform, with capped cells of brood interspersed with uncapped larvae and eggs. The hive should also be free of pests, such as varroa mites or small hive beetles. Regular inspections are key to ensuring the hive remains healthy, and at Hive & Harvest, we provide the tools and knowledge to help beekeepers maintain strong, productive hives.

42. What is royal jelly?

Royal jelly is a nutrient-rich secretion produced by worker bees that is fed to all bee larvae for the first three days of their life. After that, only larvae selected to become queens continue to be fed royal jelly, which causes them to grow larger and develop into fertile queens. Royal jelly is high in proteins, vitamins, and amino acids, and it is believed to have various health benefits for humans, including boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving skin health. However, this is a very finite resource and should only be used extremely sparingly.

43. What is the role of beekeepers in protecting bees?

Beekeepers play a vital role in protecting and preserving bee populations, which are crucial for pollinating plants and maintaining biodiversity. Beekeepers manage bee colonies, ensuring their health by monitoring for diseases, parasites, and other environmental threats that can decimate hives, such as varroa mites or pesticide exposure. They also practice sustainable beekeeping methods, ensuring that bees have access to natural foraging resources and are not over-harvested for honey. By educating the public about the importance of bees and encouraging responsible beekeeping practices, beekeepers help conserve bee populations, which are currently under threat due to habitat loss, climate change, and agricultural chemicals. At Hive & Harvest, we are committed to these protective practices and helping others learn to care for bees responsibly.

44. How does beekeeping benefit the environment?

Beekeeping directly benefits the environment by supporting pollination, which is essential for the reproduction of many plants and the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Honeybees pollinate a wide variety of crops and wildflowers, helping to maintain biodiversity and healthy ecosystems. Additionally, beekeepers who practice sustainable beekeeping often advocate for pesticide reduction, habitat preservation, and biodiversity. By raising awareness of the importance of pollinators and promoting plantings of bee-friendly flowers, beekeeping also encourages greater environmental stewardship. At Hive & Harvest, we believe in the power of beekeeping to contribute positively to the environment and encourage others to start their own beekeeping journey. This is why we offer a Plant a Tree option for people that love bees, but cannot care for them at this time.

45. What should I feed my bees?

Bees primarily feed on nectar and pollen, which provide them with the sugars, proteins, and nutrients they need to survive. As a beekeeper, it is crucial to ensure that your bees have access to these natural resources by planting a variety of bee-friendly flowers or positioning hives near areas with diverse foraging options. During times of nectar dearth or winter, beekeepers can supplement the bees’ diet with sugar syrup or fondant to prevent starvation. It is important not to feed bees honey from unknown sources, as it may contain diseases or contaminants that could harm the colony. Hive & Harvest provides tips on how to ensure your bees remain well-fed and healthy year-round in our beekeeping courses.

46. How do I inspect my beehive?

Regular hive inspections are essential to monitor the health and productivity of your bees. To inspect a hive, you should start by gently smoking the bees to calm them before opening the hive. Remove the frames carefully, looking for signs of a healthy queen (such as eggs and a good brood pattern), sufficient stores of honey and pollen, and overall bee activity. Inspect for signs of disease or pests, such as varroa mites or small hive beetles, and make sure the bees have enough space for brood and honey production. Hive & Harvest offers detailed guides and tools for performing thorough hive inspections to ensure the long-term health of your bees in our beekeeping courses.

47. How can I attract bees to my garden?

To attract bees to your garden, plant a variety of nectar- and pollen-rich flowers that bloom at different times throughout the year, ensuring a continuous food source for bees. Native plants are especially effective at attracting local bee species. Bees are particularly drawn to flowers with blue, purple, yellow, or white blooms. In addition to planting flowers, avoid using pesticides or herbicides, which can harm bees. Providing a shallow water source, such as a birdbath with pebbles, can also encourage bees to visit your garden.

48. How do I know if my bees are swarming?

A bee swarm occurs when a large group of bees leaves the hive, usually with a queen, to start a new colony. Swarming is a natural process, but it can reduce the productivity of the hive, and makes a possibility of bees taking up residence in an undesirable location, like your neighbor’s walls. Signs that your bees are preparing to swarm include an increase in the number of bees outside the hive, the presence of swarm cells (queen cells), and bees clustering on the hive entrance. If you see these signs, it’s important to manage the hive by either splitting it, providing additional space, or using the Demaree Method to prevent swarming.

49. What are the signs of queen failure?

Queen failure occurs when a queen is no longer laying enough eggs to support the colony, or when she stops laying eggs entirely. Signs of queen failure include a lack of brood (eggs, larvae, and capped brood), a spotty brood pattern, and the appearance of multiple eggs in a single cell (indicating laying workers). The bees may also start to create emergency queen cells to replace her. If you suspect queen failure, you may need to replace the queen to save the colony.

50. Why are bees important for agriculture?

Bees are critical to agriculture because they are key pollinators for a wide variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Approximately one-third of the food we consume relies on pollination, and honeybees are responsible for a large portion of that. Without bees, many crops would suffer reduced yields or fail altogether, which would have a devastating effect on food production and biodiversity. In addition to honeybees, native bees also play an essential role in supporting agriculture by pollinating plants that honeybees may not frequent. Hive & Harvest advocates for the protection of bees to ensure a sustainable future for agriculture and food security.

51. Is it safe to use metal spoons with honey?

Yes, it’s safe to use metal spoons with honey, especially if they are made from stainless steel, a non-reactive metal commonly used in honey processing. While prolonged exposure to reactive metals like iron or copper can alter honey’s color or taste, brief contact with metal, such as when serving honey, poses no risk. Honey’s beneficial enzymes remain unaffected by brief contact with metal, making stainless steel spoons perfectly safe for everyday use. Learn about this more in depth in our post: The Truth Behind Using Metal Spoons with Honey: Myth or Fact?

52. How do I win a blue ribbon at a honey show?

Winning a blue ribbon at a honey show, like the Texas State Fair, requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of honey preparation. Start by focusing on producing high-quality honey, ensuring proper extraction, and perfecting presentation. For tips and inspiration, check out how Danielle Fleming won 1st place for both dark and medium amber honey in her first-ever competition at the Texas State Fair!