Being a beekeeper requires a love for bees and the environment and a dedication to maintaining their health and well-being. Apart from the personal enjoyment of raising a bee colony, supporting the bees and increasing their population have many benefits for the environment.
Five reasons to start beekeeping
1. Personal enjoyment. Beekeeping can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby. It allows you to connect with nature and learn about the fascinating behaviour of honeybees and gain a deeper appreciation for their important role in our ecosystem.
2. Support the bees and the environment. Research shows that the honeybee population is declining in Australia and around the globe. Honeybees are important pollinators and as a beekeeper, you can help support their population and play a small part in preserving our environment by providing a safe and healthy habitat for your bees.
3. Improve mental health. Keeping bees has been shown to have a positive effect on mental health. The repetitive and meditative nature of beekeeping can help reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
4. Enjoy your own honey. You will have access to fresh honey straight from the hive. Not only is this a sweet treat, it can be a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought honey.
5. Learning opportunity. Beekeeping provides a unique opportunity to learn about the behaviour and biology of bees, as well as the broader ecosystem in which they operate. It is a great way to gain knowledge and understanding about the natural world and to share your knowledge and love for honeybees with others.
Essential Steps to Prepare for Beekeeping
The best time to start is Spring; to give bees the best opportunity to establish and prepare themselves for Winter. Honeybees produce honey which they use as food to survive the winter months when flowers are not in bloom.
Here are some steps to help you prepare for next Spring.
- Research and Learn
Read books, watch YouTube videos, attend courses, join local beekeeping clubs to gain knowledge and experience.
- Choose a Location
The area should have access to sunlight, water, and food sources for the bees. Position the hive away from human activity to avoid any disturbances.
- Get Equipment
Beekeeping requires some specialised equipment, such as a hive, protective clothing, smoker, and tools.
- Set up the Hive
Set up the hive and prepare it for the bees. You will need to assemble the hive components, and install the frames.
- Purchase Bees
Purchase bees from a reputable bee supplier, ensure they are disease-free, and add them to the hive. It’s best to get bees in the spring when they are most active and available.
- Find a Mentor
Connect with local beekeepers and join bee associations or communities to find a mentor to help you along the way and make the journey easier.
