Frequently Asked Questions
Expert Bee Advice
There is nothing wrong with asking questions to help you more about beekeeping and if it’s right for you.
The experience beekeepers at Honey Bee Abundance provide helpful answers to some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding beekeeping.
Beekeeping requires some time and effort, especially during the initial setup phase. However, once established, beekeeping can be easily incorporated into your daily routine and can take as little as an hour a week.
No, you don't need a lot of space to keep bees. You can keep bees in an urban or suburban setting with as little as a small backyard.
Beekeeping requires some knowledge and skill, but it is not necessarily difficult. With the right resources and education, beekeeping can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby.
Beekeeping requires some specialized equipment, including a hive, beekeeper suit, and tools for handling and harvesting honey. However, many beginner beekeeping kits are available that include all necessary equipment.
Honey Bee Abundance sells some items at our shop but also recommend a variety of products that can be found on our Recommended Amazon list.
The cost of starting beekeeping can vary depending on the equipment and resources needed. However, a basic beginner kit can cost between $300-$500.
When handled properly, beekeeping is a safe activity. However, bee stings can occur and can cause allergic reactions in some people. Proper safety precautions and protective gear should always be worn.
A typical bee colony can contain 10,000-60,000 bees. A beginner beekeeper usually starts with one or two colonies.
Bees should be checked every 7-10 days during the summer months and every 2-3 weeks during the winter months.
Bees require nectar and pollen from flowers to survive. However, in times of drought or during winter, supplemental feeding may be necessary.
Honey production can vary depending on factors such as weather, hive health, and location. However, a typical hive can produce between 30-60 pounds of honey per year.
Honey can be harvested from the hive using a honey extractor, which spins the honeycomb and removes the honey without damaging the comb.
A healthy bee colony should have a strong population, a queen laying eggs, and a brood pattern. Regular hive inspections can help ensure the health of the colony.
Bees can be vulnerable to pests and diseases such as varroa mites and foulbrood. Regular hive inspections, proper sanitation, and appropriate medication can help protect your bees.
Many local beekeeping associations offer certification programs for beekeepers which can provide additional education, networking opportunities and resources to help beekeepers maintain healthy colonies and produce high-quality honey.
Getting started with beekeeping involves research, education, and proper equipment. Joining a local beekeeping association or taking a beginner beekeeping course can provide the necessary resources and support to get started.
If you’re local to Greensboro, NC, and thinking about keeping bees while getting hands-on help and support from the professional beekeepers at Honey Bee Abundance then our Host-a-Hive program may be right for you.
