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Nearly half of US honeybee colonies died last year. Struggling beekeepers stabilize population (apnews.com)

submitted 1 year ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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[–] [email protected] 28 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I used to have several hives in Texas until moving out East. The heat and droughts were brutal for them. We were constantly trying to split healthy hives to increase success for our queens.

This coming spring I’ll try to add two hives to our backyard as the city allows for up to 3 hives per residence. I’m hoping the more temperate climate and docile queens will help our area.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

How much work per month do you find them?

I'd love bees on our property but I don't have the time to do lots of maintenance.

On that note I wonder if I can pay a keeper to colocate a colony on my property....

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 year ago

@[email protected] Surprisingly, there is not that much maintenance on beehives. They are incredibly efficient and sufficient on their own. When I add my two hive boxes next spring, I’ll be present enough at home to periodically check hive activity and do minor hive body inspections.

The most active you’ll be in the care of the hives is during winter (your climate may vary). In colder months when flowers don’t bloom, we cook sugar water to have for hive feeders so they are well fed. Outside of that, let nature take its course. It’s very rewarding and fun to provide a means for you and your neighbors to have pollinators and local honey.

There are plenty of “starter kits” or “garden kits” that allow for ease of entry into beekeeping.