Article From SubmitYOURArticle.com: 4 Things You Need To Know About Backyard Beekeeping

Backyard beekeeping is a thriving hobby and
really on the rise. Apart from the sheer pleasure
of keeping bees, enthusiasts have also
rediscovered the health benefits from honey and
pollen, while others are be excited about the
many potential beeswax products. Small scale bee
farming is helping to re-introduce hot organic
bee products back into the market.

If you have been considering joining this elite
group of hobbyists, do take a moment to look at
these four things you need to know before making
a final commitment.

1. Backyard beekeeping may seem simple (and can
be over time) but there is a lot to consider in
the beginning. Aside from buying some expensive
tools, equipment, and supplies, you also need to
consider town, city or state regulations. Despite
recent developments in New York, beekeeping is
still prohibited in some built up areas. It would
be best to check with the local authorities first
before you set up colonies on your property.

2. Beekeeping is not as simple as setting up a
colony in a space and letting the bees do their
"thing." You need to consider the temperament of
your colony (some colonies are prone to sting but
can be taught to become less aggressive by
introducing a mild-mannered queen,) the type of
plants they like foraging in, and the environment
they need in order to thrive.

You'll want to be up to date on the latest
beekeeping news. You'll also want a solid command
of all the tasks you will need to perform. Some
good ways to start are to join your local
association, enroll in a local beekeeping class,
and read some of the many good beekeeping books
and guides which are now available.

3. The long term health of your bee colony can
all depend on the very first bees you introduce
to the hive. This means you need to investigate
the suppliers you get your bees from. Again, you
local beekeepig association is a good place to
make enquiries. Research the type of hive that
will best suit your future needs. Consider
ordering a domesticated or indigenous bee species
as these will adapt more easily to their new home.

Bees on discount may not be such a good deal.
These batches could be cheap because they are
contaminated, or could be compromised from
diseases. They may in turn have shorter life
spans. While these bees can still provide honey
and pollen, they may hurt your overall investment
and can infect other bees in the area.

4. Take your neighbors into consideration when
deciding the location of your hive. Try to keep
the hive out of sight, and the bees flight path
above head level (by surrounding the hive with a
fence or hedge if necessary). Some advance
preparation can go a long way with your success
in backyard beekeeping.

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Val Wilson is passionate about all things
beekeeping! It is an incredibly rewarding hobby
in so many ways, so if you would like more
information about how to start beekeeping, go to
http://www.bestbeekeeping.com and sign up for the
FREE 7 day beekeeping ecourse.

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