Beekeeping Resources

At Sam’s Honey Bees, we believe that beekeeping is not only a rewarding hobby but also an important way to support the environment and our local ecosystems. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or just starting your journey, here you'll find helpful tips and advice to make the most of your beekeeping experience.

 Getting Started with Beekeeping

Beekeeping can seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and tools, anyone can get started. Here are some basic steps for those looking to dive into the world of beekeeping:

  • Start with Education: Before getting your first hive, learn as much as you can about bee biology, hive management, and the challenges beekeepers face.

  • Choosing the Right Equipment: From a good-quality hive to protective gear like a bee suit, smoker, and hive tool, make sure you have the basics.

  • Location, Location, Location: Place your hive in a quiet, sunny spot with access to water, and make sure there’s plenty of forage (flowers and plants) nearby.

Need more information? Contact us with your questions or check out local beekeeping associations for advice.

 The Importance of Hive Inspections

Hive inspections are a critical part of successful beekeeping. They allow you to check the health of the colony, spot any signs of disease, and ensure the queen is laying eggs.

What to look for during an inspection:

  • Queen Activity: Is the queen laying eggs? Look for eggs, larvae, brood in all stages and capped brood to ensure the hive is expanding.

  • Does the colony need more space: Rapid expansion in the brood nest triggers the urge to swarm due to lack of space, adding additional space can help keep that urge at bay

  • Pest Control: Check for signs of varroa mites, wax moths, or other pests.

  • Swarming Signs: Keep an eye out for swarm cells, especially in the spring when colonies tend to outgrow their hives.

Regular inspections help ensure that your bees are healthy and that your hive is functioning well.

 Common Bee Diseases and Pests to Watch For

Unfortunately, bees are vulnerable to several pests and diseases that can quickly devastate a colony. Here are some of the most common issues beekeepers need to watch for:

  • Varroa Destructor Mite: This parasitic mite can weaken or destroy a colony. A major threat to European honeybees. Treating for varroa mites after the honey harvest is essential to protect your bees.

  • American Foulbrood: A bacterial disease that can wipe out colonies. It's important to spot the signs early, as infected hives may need to be destroyed. Signs include sunken wax capping’s, an unpleasant smell, a ropey mucus.

  • Deformed Wing Virus: Often linked to varroa infestations, this virus causes deformities in young bees and can weaken a colony.

  • Wax Moth: These pests can damage the wax comb and weaken your hive.

  • European Foulbrood (EFB): a disease of unsealed brood. caused by the non-spore forming bacterium. EFB is a notifiable disease, if you suspect it is present in one of your colony’s you must inform the national bee unit.

  • Chalkbrood: A fungal disease caused by ascosphaera apis that affects the honey bee larvae. It can cause mummies to appear on the entrance board, bottom board, or in the cells,

  • Nosema disease: A disease caused by microsporidian fungus Nosema apis that’s common in Britain, especially in spring.

  • Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus (CBPV); A viral disease that can be latent in be colonies.

  • Kakugo Virus: An iflavirus that may be spread by varroa mites,

  • Sacbrood

  • Tracheal mite (acarine disease):

  • Amoeba Disease:

    Proper management and regular inspections will help you keep these threats at bay.

 Nucleus Colonies and Beehive Sales

Looking to start your own beekeeping journey? Sam’s Honey Bees offers nucleus colonies (small starter colonies of bees) and custom-built, high-quality beehives for sale. Each nucleus colony comes with:

  • A mated queen

  • Several frames of brood, honey, and pollen

  • Worker bees to care for the hive

Starting with a nucleus colony gives you a great head start, especially if you’re new to beekeeping. Get in touch to learn more about purchasing a colony or hive and how we can help support you as you get started.

 Supporting Pollinators in Your Garden

You don’t have to be a beekeeper to help support bees and other pollinators. By making small changes in your garden or outdoor space, you can make a big difference:

  • Plant Bee-Friendly Flowers: Flowers like lavender, sunflowers, and wildflowers are great nectar sources for bees.

  • Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can harm bees and other pollinators. Use organic alternatives where possible.

  • Provide Water: Bees need access to clean water. A shallow dish with some pebbles can provide them with a safe place to drink.

  • Create a Pollinator Haven: Leave parts of your garden wild or plant a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the seasons to provide continuous forage.

  • Wild flower Garden: Give the bees forage dureing the time when the

Small actions can have a big impact on local bee populations and other pollinators.

 Sam’s Beekeeping Tips

  • Stay Patient: Beekeeping can be unpredictable. Bees don’t always follow the books, so flexibility and patience are key.

  • Plan for Swarms: If your bees get too crowded, they might swarm. Always have extra equipment on hand and keep a close eye on your hive in spring.

  • Keep Learning: Beekeeping is an ongoing learning process. Whether it's reading books, attending beekeeping courses, or learning from other local beekeepers, staying curious will make you a better beekeeper.