Honey bees have a crucial part to play in both nature and agriculture. They’re not just about honey; their main claim to fame is as pollinators that help crops and wild plants flourish, which in turn sustains entire ecosystems. If you’re curious about the different types of honey bees out there, you’re in good company—there … Read more
Choosing the right honey bee subspecies can really shape your beekeeping experience. Two of the most talked-about types are Italian bees (Apis mellifera ligustica) and Carniolan bees (Apis mellifera carnica). Both are popular with backyard and commercial beekeepers, but there are some pretty clear differences in behavior, productivity, and hardiness that are worth looking at. … Read more
Raising queen bees for profit can seem a little intimidating at first, but once you break it down, it’s a manageable and exciting part of the beekeeping world. Queen production is a unique niche that goes beyond standard beekeeping, and it can be rewarding whether you’re after a side gig or considering a full-time venture. … Read more
Varroa mites have become one of the biggest headaches for today’s beekeepers. These tiny pests weaken whole colonies, threatening the future of your bees. Over the years, I’ve seen folks turn to all sorts of chemicals, but more and more people—including myself—are now seeking gentler, organic options to keep bees healthy without harsh residues. In … Read more
If you’re just getting started with beekeeping, managing varroa mites can feel overwhelming. I remember my first season and the stress of seeing those tiny red mites on my bees. With the right know-how and a few simple tactics, you can help your hive stay healthy and buzzing. This guide covers straightforward varroa mite treatments … Read more
Extreme weather can make beekeeping a real challenge, no matter how much experience you have. Intense heatwaves, freezing cold snaps, heavy rain, and drought all put honeybee health and hive productivity at risk. From personal experience, staying prepared for these ups and downs is pretty important if you want your bees to thrive. Here, I’ll … Read more
Autumn is one of my favorite times to check on the hives. The crisp air, changing leaves, and last bursts of wildflowers always signal it’s time to help my bees prepare for colder months ahead. Proper autumn hive maintenance keeps colonies strong, healthy, and much more likely to make it through winter with plenty of … Read more
Watching bees buzz from flower to flower has always fascinated me. There’s a whole story hidden in that flight, one that ends in a jar of golden honey on the kitchen shelf. From the outside, it seems pretty straightforward: bees collect nectar, then magically turn it into honey. But the real process is way more … Read more
If you’re thinking about getting into beekeeping, you’re not alone! Harvesting honey from your own backyard and supporting the bees is rewarding on so many levels. From sweet jars of honey to the gentle hum of a healthy hive, this hobby is both fascinating and easier to start than you might think. I’ve put together … Read more
If you’ve kept bees for even a short time, you know how important the queen is for a healthy, productive hive. When something goes wrong and your colony loses its queen, things can go downhill fast. Unless you spot the problem quickly, your bees may struggle to recover. Figuring out whether your hive is queenless … Read more