BeginnerBeekeeping Bee Space
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…
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…
Recognising Queen Cells: Identification and Practical Use
Queen cells are a natural and essential part of a bee colony, often signalling key moments like swarming, queen replacement, or an emergency response to a missing queen. Understanding these…
Mastering the Art of Swarm Management in Beekeeping
Swarm management is an essential yet complex skill in beekeeping. Swarms, once predictable, now often contain virgin or failing queens, posing unique challenges. Effective swarm collection involves using the right…
Effective Strategies for Sustainable Beekeeping
In sustainable beekeeping, the goal isn’t to keep bees on "life support" but to cultivate colonies that can thrive naturally. This approach reduces dependency on artificial interventions and focuses on…