Monthly Archives: March 2014

Why Bees?

Here’s where I get all philosophical and explain why we decided to try our hand at raising honeybees… actually, we were going to get backyard chickens until we found out how much work they are and that we’d have to get up at the butt-crack of dawn every day to let them out of their coop. Not for us! Seriously, it comes down to several factors. I have always loved and respected nature and the outdoors, I enjoy gardening and otherwise

Botany for bees

Until our bees actually arrive (April 19th, weather permitting!), I’ve been busy getting the equipment ready, preparing the hive site in the back yard, and reading up on everything I can get my hands on.  Last week I attended my final class of the Orange County Beekeepers Association “Bee School”. It was a fantastic 10 week course, with a ton of information to absorb.  One of the most interesting classes for me, was all about which plant species in central North Carolina are important for bees. 

What to expect when you’re expecting…

…roughly 6 pounds of fuzzy honey bees! Which translates into approximately 60,000 (give or take a few thousand) of the lovely ladies. Oh, and a few hundred dudes (i.e. drones), which are only good for one thing (wink, wink). So yes, in case you didn’t know, hubbie (Rob, Robert, Scott, Bert, or Bob-if you’re in Mexico) and I are getting bees this spring! I hope to post updates on our adventures (and misadventures) in beekeeping. Until then, bee good! (Disclaimer: