The world needs you to become a beekeeper
Have you ever wanted to keep bees and get free honey?
The first question everyone asks is…how do I get started? Where do I get bees?
Well there are 3 options and I’ll quickly explain each and the pros and cons:
- Purchase bees by mail – Many people do this, you’ll get a fully functioning hive (a small one) with queen, ready to go. You just need a hive box and other supplies. The downsides are they are not adapted to your area, may not survive the stress of the new climate, and may have been exposed to toxic bee medications, fed sugar or corn syrup, etc (all very common practices with most beekeepers). Expect to pay about $100 + shipping
- Purchase bees from a local beekeeper – If you can find a beekeeper willing to sell a hive this is a better option than #1. However, the downsides remain the same–they are not adapted to your area, may not survive the stress of the new climate, and may have been exposed to toxic bee medications, fed sugar or corn syrup, etc (all very common practices with most beekeepers). Prices will vary depending on the beekeeper but I would think you might get a better deal, especially because you don’t have to pay shipping.
- Catch a swarm! – in my opinion, this is the BEST OPTION! You will be finding bees local to you, they are not already an established hive (they have no comb or hive they are protecting, they have left their former hive and are in a less aggressive state, looking to find a new home). And best of all…..they are FREE!
So there you have it–my top 3 recommendations! Should you decide to catch a swarm I have created a free video to teach you how, as well as a pdf of the essential items you will need to do this.
This is EXACTLY how I started out, a brand new novice beekeeper. I had never kept bees in my life and it was all very easy to do. I’ve learned a lot since then! So you can learn from my experience (and mistakes!)