How I Install Package Bees in a New Hive

A screened wooden package of honey bees used for transporting approximately 3 pounds of bees and a caged queen.

Starting your beekeeping journey with package bees is always exciting. These buzzing boxes contain thousands of workers and a mated queen ready to get to work building out their new home. Whether you’re setting up your very first hive or expanding your apiary, proper installation helps the colony get off to a strong start. In … Read more

How to Harvest Honey: 5 Essential Steps for Beekeepers

Beekeeper slicing capped honeycomb from a wooden frame onto a plate, surrounded by homemade pastries and honeycomb servings on a floral tablecloth.

Harvesting honey can be a rewarding experience for both beginners and seasoned beekeepers alike. Knowing the essential steps to effectively harvest honey ensures that you can gather this sweet product safely and efficiently. By following a structured approach, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor while maintaining the health of your bee colonies. Equipped … Read more

How to Inspect a Hive Like a Pro (Without Overdoing It!)

Beekeeper inspecting a brood frame from a Langstroth hive during a warm, sunny day in the field.

Hive inspections are one of the most important, and often misunderstood, parts of beekeeping. Done right, they give you a window into the health and status of your colony. Done wrong, they can cause stress, damage, or just be a waste of time. This post will walk you through exactly what you need to know … Read more

Packages vs Nucs – Which One Is Right for Me?

A screened wooden package of honey bees used for transporting approximately 3 pounds of bees and a caged queen.

If you’re getting into beekeeping, you’re going to need bees—and that means making a choice early on: should you order a package or a nuc? Both options will get you started, but they’re not the same. The choice depends on your goals, your budget, and most importantly, what’s available in your area. What Is a … Read more

Beekeeping Gear Checklist: Everything You Actually Need (And a Few Extras You Might Want)

Starting beekeeping can feel overwhelming when it comes to gear. This checklist covers the essentials you actually need to get started, plus a few extras that are nice to have once you’re more comfortable in the hive. Everything here is based on what works in real beekeeping, not just what looks good online. Protective Gear … Read more

How Much Does Beekeeping Really Cost? (Spoiler: More Than You Think) 💸

When I first decided to get into beekeeping, I knew I might have to spend a few hundred dollars. What I didn’t know was that I’d need to take out a second mortgage and sell a kidney to sustain my beekeeping habit. Okay, maybe it’s not that bad, but beekeeping is a lot more expensive than … Read more

Top 10 Things to Consider Before Getting Into Beekeeping

So you’re thinking about becoming a beekeeper? That’s awesome, and I truly mean that. Beekeeping is one of the most rewarding, humbling, and fascinating hobbies (or side hustles) out there. But before you take the plunge, there are a few things you should seriously think through. In this post, I’ll walk you through the top … Read more