Bee keeping

chefgian

Songster
9 Years
May 10, 2011
83
7
101
Stow, OH.
I have been successful at raising chickens and organic gardening for a year now. Time to add bee keeping. I need advice on what equipment to buy and what to stay away from. I also need to know where to get quality equipment and supplies from a trusted source that won't break the bank. I live in Stow, Ohio. Thank you my self sufficient friends.
 
My husband started beekeeping last year. He began his research with our state's Extension service at the state university. From there he was able to find beekeeping mentors and suppliers, etc. Hope this helps!
 
I'm also in Ohio (Medina area)and I would suggest getting a book called The Backyard Beekeeper by Kim Flottum. I read his book and attended one of his classes since I live in the same area as he does. Very smart beekeeper! I've read lots of books and I think this is by far the easiest read and covers everything you need to know. I would also recommend you purchase all new hive materials. Do not buy used hives. Chances of getting a hive full of disease is just to great. Used equipment such as suits and tools shouldn't be an issue but not when it comes to the actual hive. I would also seek out a local bee equipment supplier if possible. Even if you have to drive a little ways. They are can be a great source of knowledge. I purchase my equipment from Queen Right Colonies in Spencer Ohio. They have a web site you can look at and order from. They have guided me away from buying things I didn't need and just don't work. They are good people.
 
Remember there are different types of bee hives there is the more up to date fancy box with suppers and brood chambers and such and there is a more simple method called the TOP bar here is a picture of one and the web site http://www.farmhack.net/tools/simple-top-bar-bee-hive#forum
I raised bees growing up and did the Suppers and brooders and all that other fancy stuff .
The Top Bar style this seems to me to be more simplified.
 
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I love gardening and have been doing that for years. This year I've added chickens and ducks and beekeeping is in my next 5 year plan (but I really want it to be in my 1 year plan). I think the top bar method looks the best so far and the article that made me think that is on the Mother Earth News website. http://www.motherearthnews.com/Sustainable-Farming/Top-Bar-Beekeeping-Method.aspx

Good luck!
 
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Great Post, LOVE the ingenuity! It is always refreshing to see how things can be done without following the "rules".
Remember there are different types of bee hives there is the more up to date fancy box with suppers and brood chambers and such and there is a more simple method called the TOP bar here is a picture of one and the web site http://www.farmhack.net/tools/simple-top-bar-bee-hive#forum
I raised bees growing up and did the Suppers and brooders and all that other fancy stuff .
The Top Bar style this seems to me to be more simplified.
 

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