The beekeeper’s calendar is directly linked to the seasons. Preparing your hives for changes in temperature and shifts in the weather — before they happen — is crucial for raising healthy, strong colonies. While there are a number of variables that affect the timing of these tasks, getting a head start, and preparing your equipment is always a good idea.
July
While …
When it’s time to reap the rewards of your work as a beekeeper, make harvesting supers with frames full of delicious, golden honey a simple and easy process with these tips from Dadant & Sons.
As always, it’s a good idea to have all of your tools and materials ready and close at hand before you begin. To start harvesting supers, …
Texas beekeeper Dwain Cleveland brought his swarm box for relocating honeybees to our attention. After seeing it in action, we thought we'd bring it to yours, too, by sharing this video.
Each spring, beekeepers may choose to start a new colony by installing package bees or nucs into a new beehive, or even purchasing fully established hives from another beekeeper. Some …
The beekeeper’s calendar is directly linked to the seasons. Preparing your hives for changes in temperature and shifts in the weather — before they happen — is crucial for raising healthy, strong colonies. While there are a number of variables that affect the timing of these tasks, getting a head start, and preparing your equipment is always a good idea.
June
The …
Tips from the Dadant & Sons How to Start a Bee Smoker Video
Learning how to start a bee smoker — and keep it lit — is an essential skill for all beekeepers.
Start With a High-Quality Smoker
A bee smoker is one of the most important tools for working with a colony of honeybees. The Dadant Smoker 4 X 7 Stainless Steel …
When it’s time to install package bees, make sure you have all your equipment and supplies ready before you begin!
Tips from the Dadant & Sons How to Install Package Bees Video
Start with a hive stand and a screened bottom board
Ventilation and temperature regulation are crucial for honey bee colonies. Adding a hive stand and screened bottom board helps the bees …
Making your own sugar syrup ahead of time is a great way to prepare for the arrival of your package bees!
When your package bees arrive, having enough sugar syrup ready to feed them will help the honeybees adjust to their new home in your hives. For each package, we recommend making one gallon of syrup.
How to Make Sugar Syrup for …
The beekeeper’s calendar is directly linked to the seasons. Preparing your hives for changes in temperature and shifts in the weather — before they happen — is crucial for raising healthy, strong colonies. While there are a number of variables that affect the timing of these tasks, getting a head start and preparing your equipment is always a good idea.
This …