How to Select Beekeeping Supplies

Beekeeping requires a lot of special equipment and supplies. For starters, you need a queen bee and a hoard of loyal subjects. Or, if you're already seasoned at beekeeping, then you know the importance of maintaining the condition of feeders and frame foundations to house the hives. Additionally, even bees need medical attention now and then, such as mite control. That's why every beekeeper should know how to select beekeeping supplies to keep the hive buzzing and the golden honey flowing.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Round Up Your Beekeeping Supplies

1. Start collecting catalogs. Many companies that provide beekeeping supplies also offer free mail order catalogs.

2. Keep an eye out for sales and special bargains. For instance, Mann Lake Ltd is one beekeeping supply company that offers Web specials on many different types of select products (see Resources below).

3. Consider taking workshops or classes to stay up-to-date in beekeeping supplies and practices. The Better Bee is one company that offers such instructional workshops on site (see Resources below).

4. Think about subscribing to the American Bee Journal for news, events and articles on how to use beekeeping supplies, queen rearing, the collection and handling of honey and more (see Resources below).

5. Find a local beekeeping supplies provider if you wish to make your purchases in person. Simply use your favorite search engine and enter your city, state or region. Select a company from the search results to be directed to that company's website.

Tips & Warnings

• Most states permit the legal keeping of bees. However, if you're just starting out, you might want to check with your local authorities just to be on the safe side.
• Be sure to keep your beekeeping supplies in good working order. Equipment and supplies in poor condition can affect the health of your bees and inhibit honey production.
• Honey is the perfect food, providing all the nutrients needed, including water, to sustain life. And, it never spoils. That's why beekeeping can be quite a lucrative, as well as enjoyable hobby.
• Always practice responsible beekeeping practices to protect yourself, your family, your neighbors and your bees.

Resources

• Mann Lake Ltd website for supplies
• The Better Bee for a workshop or beekeeping class
• Beekeeping news and articles at the "American Bee Journal"