Beekeeping Supplies & Equipment- That You Need or Want
Getting started in beekeeping is not an inexpensive activity. The cost of everything needed for you and your bees adds up. Cost is a major factor to consider when keeping honey bees. There will be some ongoing costs too. Sorting out which types of beekeeping supplies & equipment you really need can make the task easier.
Buying equipment for your bees is not an inexpensive endeavor. Not only do the required items cost money, it can be difficult to know what to purchase.
And equipment is not the only thing you will need to acquire. Managing honey bees will result in purchasing beekeeping supplies as your hives grow in number and strength.
The world of beekeeping involves a lot of opinions. And you have some decisions to make. There is not always just 1 answer to a question.
If your budget is tight, start with the basics. You can always buy more fun beekeeping gadgets next year.
There are several different types of beehives in use. Which is best for you? That depends on several factors including your location and beekeeping goals. Each kind of hive has advantage and challenges. – Choosing the Best Types of Hives
Would you like to build your own beehive? With a little woodworking skill and some good bee hive plans, building a beehive is possible. Beehive Plans – DIY Beehives.
But before you rush off to the store to buy wood for this special project, take some time to evaluate your reasons for wanting to build your own bee boxes! Review the important aspects of hive construction. How to Build a Beehive of Your Own
To get the most out of your beekeeping experience, you need to know your equipment. Learn the basic parts of the Langstroth beehive and understand their function before your bees arrive – Understand the Parts of a Beehive.
Bees don’t really care what color their hive is painted. Beekeepers paint hives to prolong the life of the wooden parts. Here are some tips to help you know – How to Paint a Beehive.
Many beekeepers use real beeswax foundation in their hive frames. If you do, then you will need to Install Beeswax Foundation into your frames.
The bottom board of a Langstroth hive is the base of the structure. There are at least 2 styles of bottoms. Which it the Best Type of Bottom Board for your beehive?
New beekeepers are tempted to attempt to save money by purchasing used equipment? Is it a good idea? It depends, and there are risks involved – Should You Buy Used Beekeeping Equipment.
Some of types of beekeeping equipment are the subject of controversy. Do you need to use them on your hives? A simple example is the Queen Excluder. Beekeepers tend to have strong opinions on their use – Should Your Use a Queen Excluder on Your Hive?
The bee smoker is the #1 tool for a new beekeeper. When used properly, the cool white smoke disrupts the alarms signals of guard bees. Learn How to Use Your Beekeeper’s Smoker correctly.
A beekeeper accumulates many pieces of beekeeping equipment. Some of your boxes will not be on the hive during Winter. Those boxes or supers containing drawn comb need special attention to prevent damage during storage. – How to Store Honey Supers During Winter
Every beekeeper needs some safety gear or beekeeper clothing. There are many options to choose from. Perhaps you need some help making a decision? – Choosing Beekeeping Clothing and Protective Wear .
Beekeeping suits come in many different styles, colors and quality grades. Here are some tips to help you find the very best – Beekeeping Suit.
Protecting Your Colonies
As you plan to set up your hives, you must consider protection. Beehives are valuable and people will steal them. If theft is a concern, place hives where they can be watched or are difficult to access.
In addition, if you live in a region that has bear – build an electric bear fence. Most beekeeper has no idea they have a bear problem until one destroys their hives. – How to Build the Best Electric Fence for Bears.
Conclusion:
All beekeepers end up some some items that they will never use. These gadgets take the beekeeping world by storm. Many will be forgotten in the next few years.
However, basic hive components, protective wear and the old standard smoker and hive tool have stood the test of time. Choose one that appeals to you and your style of beekeeping.
Beekeeper Charlotte
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