The top beekeeping tips remain the same whether you are new to the hobby, just exploring inviting bees into your garden, or you are a well-established beekeeper. All beekeepers want their bees to be healthy and happy, and there are several tips that can help every beekeeper ensure their bees thrive this year.

Cleanliness is Important

When adding a new hive, it is important that it is clean, and that the equipment being used has also been cleaned. Cleaning equipment and getting rid of residual wax and honey before starting a new hive ensure no diseases carry over from a previously used hive. Disease is a real threat to beehives, and using dirty equipment may expose bees to something that can be harmful. Brand-new hobbyists can purchase complete starter kits, where more experienced beekeepers may build their own or have a favorite way to add to their existing colony using materials they already have on hand.

An apiary, also referred to as a bee yard, is where hives are kept. Apiaries come in all shapes and sizes and look different throughout the beekeeping community. Beekeepers will build fences or have openings in closed structures to encourage bees to fly upwards upon exiting to expand their food search area.

Providing Hydration Sources is Critical

Bees, like all living things, require water for survival. Although you may find bees in your pool occasionally, they are not going for a dip and can’t swim. Bees need plentiful and easy access to water sources throughout the year. Having clean water available offers bees a safe space to get a drink. It is also good to remember that "clean" water does not mean new water every day. Bees can get nutrients from standing water in a shallow dish (like a pan or bird bath). Offer your bees a bottle cork or a sponge to perch upon as they lap up the water for hydration. Every little effort to keep water accessible is a significant help to the bees.

Bee Friendly Planting

Bees can gather food from many sources. Flowers, plants, and trees are all excellent sources for bees. Bee friendly plants, flowers, and trees can be planted and maintained to help bees use the pollen and nectar as protein and sugar. A plentiful and healthy diet of a variety of food sources allows bees to keep their hives healthy, allowing regular reproduction. You can’t plant too many flowers, plants, or trees! If you are able to plant a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, you will likely provide an extended period that bees can use your garden as a source of food. A wider variety means different bloom times, heights, and choices!