Wow! It's crazy to think that Spring is just around the corner. Before you know it, there will be buzzing in the air. Whether you are a veteran beekeeper or just a new-bee, that sound will soon be music to your ears.
In preparation for spring, we have put together a simple guideline to help you be prepared for the upcoming months. If this is your first year beekeeping or just refreshing your memory we hope you find this guide helpful:
Join in: Joining your local beekeeping association is a great way to get involved in your community and learn from neighboring beekeepers. If you are in Ohio, the Ohio State Beekeepers Association is a good source for events throughout the state.
Education: In the leading months to your bees arrival, reading is one of the best things you can do. Some great books we enjoy are Backyard Beekeeper and Beekeeping For Dummies. Classes and conferences are other great way to get information. If you are in the Cincinnati area, our classes take place in March and the Southwestern Ohio Beekeeper School is March 25, 2017. It fills up quickly though so make sure to sign up right away if you plan to attend.
Ordering Bees: If you haven't already done so, make sure to have your order in for packaged bees. You can order bees from us for pick-up at our farm on April 23rd, 2017. Packages are limited.
Equipment: Have you decided on which hive is best for you? There are many options when choosing the type of hive you want. From a Langstroth, Warre Hive, Top-Bar etc. The best way to make this decision is start by asking yourself these questions:
- What is the climate like in your area? Which hive is best for that climate?
- Where do you want to place your hives?
- Are you able to lift boxes up to 40+lbs?
- Do you want to harvest honey?
There are many questions to ask yourself in making your decision. If you need help making this decision please contact us.
We sell beekeeping products here on our website as well as in our store front that is set to open in April 2017. If you would like pre-order Langstroth hives or starter kits and pick them up when you get your bees April 23rd, please let us know.
Installation: Being prepared for the arrival of your bees is very crucial. If this is your first time picking up packages please read our recommendations on transporting and installing.
Please contact us with any questions you may have. Hope you find this guidance helpful.
Cory & Krystle Gaiser
