A beehive can’t just go anywhere. If you are considering a hive (or more) you need to make sure you have an appropriate location for it! You need a nice sunny location ideally with morning sun. The sun helps keep the hive warm and dry. The less windy the better as well. You also want to be near a steady water source such as a stream or pond. Ideally within ¼ a mile of that steady water source for their health. Finally, you want your bees to have access to pollen sources. Obviously flowers are a great pollen source but poplar trees and clover fields are good as well.
Being in a rural area makes finding the ideal location easier but it is still possible to find a good location otherwise. If you live in the city or suburb, you could use a child sized pool or other item for your water source. You can plant extra flowers and even use a rooftop as your hive location!
Cost of Beekeeping
Keeping bees can be pricey, especially when you start out. The upfront cost can be high because of all the gear you need. You will need a hive plus all components, protective gear, tools, and smoker. (Be sure to check out our starter kits which can save you a lot of time and money!)
You will also need to get the bees themselves. You can get either a package of bees or a Nuc. A package is a collection of bees and a young queen. A Nuc, or nucleus colony is a miniature hive consisting of 5 deep frames of honey, pollen and brood, plus the bees.
Beekeeping also takes a lot of time, especially when starting out. At the beginning you will need to check your bees every few days and once established you will still need to check them at least once a week. And this isn’t just going and looking at the hive! You will be putting on your suit, starting up your smoker and thoroughly inspecting your hive. If you find any issues, such as mites, pests or infections, that could cost time and money as well.
Once established, a beehive can be a great way to have your own honey and beeswax products or sell them at your local farmers markets, to neighbors or even online