Bee Space
BeginnerBeekeeping In a natural nest, “bee space” is the gap that honey bees leave open, allowing them to move freely within their hive. Typically, bees avoid filling this space with propolis…
Basic Beekeeping Principles
The Demaree Method in Beekeeping: How It Works and When to Use It
The Demaree method is a time-tested beekeeping technique used to control swarming, facilitate queen replacement, and even produce nuclei. Originally developed by George Demaree in 1884, it rearranges the colony…
How Much Should You Charge for an 8oz Jar of Local Honey in the UK?
If you’re a UK beekeeper wondering how to price your 8oz (227g) jars of honey, you’re not alone. Whether you’re selling at markets, online, or to farm shops, setting a…
Bailey Comb Change: A Step-by-Step Guide for Replacing Old Comb with Fresh Wax
Discover the Bailey comb change process, a beekeeping technique to replace old, disease-prone comb with fresh wax, improving hive hygiene and reducing virus load. Ideal for early spring when colonies…
Deformed Wing Virus (DWV)
DWV is a leading cause of honey bee colony losses worldwide. Discover how this virus spreads through Varroa mites, what science says about its variants, and how new beekeepers can…
Understanding Top and Bottom Bee Space in Beekeeping
In beekeeping, one critical decision for hive setup is whether to use Top Bee Space (TBS) or Bottom Bee Space (BBS). Bee space refers to the specific gap in a…
The Shook Swarm Method
The shook swarm method, also known as "shakedown" in the U.S., is an effective way to renew comb and reduce disease risks in honey bee colonies. This guide explains the…
Varroa-sensitive hygiene (VSH)
Varroa Sensitive Hygiene (VSH) is how honey bees detect and remove mite-infested brood, breaking the Varroa life cycle and improving colony health.
The Science and Promise of Treatment-Free Beekeeping: What Beginners Need to Know
Discover how honey bees develop natural varroa resistance and how beginner beekeepers can support treatment-free colonies using simple, science-backed steps.