Gardening for Bees
Outcomes Learners will identify the top 10 bee-friendly plants for the prairies and gain insights on how to attract and support pollinators in their gardens. https://youtu.be/tBixsmXnl0Q Click the link below to receive your free Garden Planning Guide. This work sheet will guide you through assessing the characteristics of your growing space, to help you take […]
Queen Rearing Equipment
Outcomes Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of essential queen rearing equipment. Key Takeaways Learn how to use essential equipment, such as the Chinese Grafting Tool, designed to delicately scoop out larvae and royal jelly from cells for precise grafting into queen cups. This tool streamlines the process and increases the chances of […]
Performing a Survival Check
Outcomes Learners will understand how to conduct a survival inspection for beehives and implement effective spring feeding techniques to support the well-being and survival of bee colonies during the critical springtime period. Key Takeaways Survival inspections are vital health check-ups for beehives, allowing beekeepers to assess colony well-being and identify potential issues. Spring feeding […]
Reducing Honey Bee Drift
Outcomes Learners will be able to understand the significance of painting beehive boxes for honey bee orientation and recognize the key factors to consider when painting their hive. Key Takeaways Bees have impressive navigation skills within their colonies, but drift can occur in apiaries with multiple colonies. Hive orientation and visual landmarks help […]
Queen Rearing Basics
Outcomes Learners will acquire a foundational understanding of the essential techniques and practices involved in raising queens. Key Takeaways The queen rearing process begins with the presence of purple-eyed drone pupa, indicating the drones’ sexual maturity for mating with new queens. Pre-feeding the hives with light syrup and pollen patties stimulates development and provides […]
All About Flow
Informative video and blog on honey bees and nature; flow and dearth and management.
Holistic Apiary Management With Bill Stagg
Outcomes Learners will have knowledge about natural beekeeping, including the significance of observing bees, allowing swarming, providing natural nutrition, and timing colony splits for successful apiary management. Key Takeaways Beekeepers can learn valuable insights from observing and studying the behavior of bees in their natural environment. Allowing bees to swarm is crucial for the […]
Choosing a Beehive Location
Outcomes Learners will understand the factors to consider when placing a beehive to ensure the successful establishment of a honeybee colony in their yard. Key Takeaways Sunlight and Warmth: Placing the beehive in a location that receives ample sunlight allows honeybees to forage for longer periods and helps maintain a warmer environment for raising […]
Choosing the Right Bee Smoker
Outcomes Learners will understand the factors involved in choosing the right beekeeping smoker Key Takeaways Safety First: The most critical consideration when selecting a smoker for beekeeping is safety. Look for a smoker with a raised bottom chamber to prevent accidental fires, and ensure it includes a hook or mechanism to hang the […]
Questions to Ask When Purchasing Used Beekeeping Equipment
Outcomes Learners will assess the risks associated with used beekeeping equipment and recognize the advantages of investing in new gear. Key Takeaways Used beekeeping equipment may have structural weaknesses that can compromise bee colony safety. Previous bee colonies housed in used equipment may have faced health issues, leaving behind hidden threats of disease. […]