Honey bee supplies install#

Honey bee supplies install#

I prefer beeswax personally but it is more trouble to install beeswax foundation into frames. It is generally better to avoid mixing types of foundation in the hive, until the bees have drawn out the comb.Įach type of foundation has benefits and disadvantages. Both beeswax foundation and plastic foundation is available. Most beekeepers use a foundation material in the wooden frames of the hive boxes. New colonies often do not produce a honey crop until the second year. In most cases, this is not a piece of hive equipment needed during the first year.Įxcluders are normally placed just under honey collection boxes. Will you use a queen excluder on your hive? Some beekeepers swear by them and others swear at them. Some pieces of beekeeping equipment involve serious controversy. Hive bottom boards come in several styles both with and without trays. Learn the proper names.Įven the common Langstroth hive has many variations you can try. What one beekeeper calls a “doohicky” might be a “thing a ma bob” to someone else. When you want to ask other beekeepers for advice, things will go much easier if you know the names of your equipment. Learn the basic parts of the your beehive and understand their function before your bees arrive. But, your bees must have somewhere to live when they arrive – don’t delay!

You can always buy more fun beekeeping gadgets next year. If your budget is tight, start with basic bee supplies. There is rarely only 1 answer to a question. The best advice I can give you is to do your own research, listen to an experienced beekeeper and then make a decision for your hives. As a new beekeeper, you will be left very confused on occasion. Even with the best intentions – we often are convinced that our idea is the best one. It is always advisable to have some extra equipment on hand for emergency situations. A couple of additional bee boxes on hand for your growing colonies is a good idea. Sadly, you often don’t really know everything you need for beekeeping until you have some experience.īut, every beekeeper needs beginning beehive setups for each family of bees. In addition to the expense, is the frustration of being unsure of what you really should buy. Whether you buy Italian Honey Bees, Carniolans or a mixed mut bee – they must all have a place to live. For only a couple of hives, your expenses should be less in the second and third years.Īfter ordering your bees, it is time to get ready for them. Read my privacy and affiliate disclosure policy for more info.ĭo not let this discourage you, just be prepared with a bit of savings on hand. Basic equipment for your honey bees will most likely set you back several hundred dollars the first year. There are many ways to approach this hobby, but you should expect an outlay of money in the beginning.