You can discover a wealth of information here. Browse through our Frequently Asked Questions, and if you don't find the answer you're seeking below, then please contact us.
1. Where do the bees come from?
Our bees are sourced from Northwest, OR, a region with a climate similar to ours in the Northwest. This ensures that our bees are well-adapted to the local environment and will thrive in their new homes.
2. Are they almond bees?
Yes, our bees have participated in almond pollination. After this intense period, they are given ample time (at least three weeks) to rest and recover, allowing them to raise new nurse bees and prepare for the upcoming honey production season. This rest period ensures that our bees are healthy and vigorous, ready to produce high-quality honey.
3. Where do the queen bees come from?
Our spring queens are sourced from carefully selected breeders in Northern California and Hawaii. These regions provide ideal conditions for raising healthy, productive queens, ensuring that our colonies have the best genetic stock available.
4. How are the bees transported?
Our bees are transported during the cool early morning hours to minimize stress and ensure their safety. They are carefully placed in specially designed enclosed trailers equipped with a soft-ride suspension to prevent jarring and provide a smooth journey. Inside the trailers, fans and multiple fresh air vents maintain optimal ventilation and keep the bees cool. It's important to note that heat buildup primarily occurs in the middle-bottom portion of the bee stacks, not on the outer layers. To address this, we strategically position air vents to effectively circulate air throughout the stacks and prevent overheating. By maintaining a cool and comfortable environment during transport, we ensure the well-being of our bees and minimize stress-related mortality.
5. Do I need to feed the bees?
Yes it is crucial to provide quit supplemental feeding for your bees, especially during periods of nectar scarcity or when they are building new comb. We highly recommend using "complete be "as a staple feed for your colonies. This exceptional product, available in 100 mL bottles, is formulated with a proprietary blend of nutrients and stimulants that promote optimal be health and productivity. Due to its high nutritional value, these consume a significant amount of complete the syrup. For optimal results, we recommend mixing complete bee with a 1:1 sugar syrup in the spring to provide a balanced and energy-rich diet.
If you were planning to hive your bees immediately, it is essential to feed them as their food supply in the shipping container is limited to a single day. Additionally, we recommend provide pollen patties to supplement their protein intake. Pollen is crucial for brood rearing, and with adequate pollen, these cannot properly nourish they're developing larva. Remove the abundance of pollen directly influences the size of the brood population. Plentiful pollen supply leads to a larger and more productive colony.
By incorporate Complete Bee and pollen patties into your feeding regimen, you can ensure that you were bees have the nutritional resources they need to thrive and produce bountiful honey.
6. How many Nucs should I start out with?
Starting with two nucs is an excellent recommendation for beginner beekeepers. This approach offers several advantages:
A. Risk Mitigation: having the nucs provides a safety net in case one colony encounters challenges or succumbs to unforeseen circumstances. If you lose one hive, you still have another thriving colony to maintain and learn from.
B. Queen Replacement: in the event that a queen dies, do you have the option of combining the two nucs, create stronger colony with a healthy queen. This allows for a seamless transition in minimizes potential disruptions to your beekeeping journey.
C. Increased Honey Production: two nucs typically yield more honey than a single nuc, as they have a larger workforce to collect nectar and produce honey.
D. Observational Learning: By managing two nucs, you gain the valuable opportunity to observe the distinct characteristics and behaviors of different colonies. This comparative learning experience enhances your understanding of beekeeping and allows you to identify subtle variations in hive dynamics.
E. Accelerated Learning Curve: Caring for to nucs provides more hands-on experience and exposure to be keeping tasks, accelerating you're learning process and fostering a deeper understanding of colony management.
Starting with two nucs allows you to navigate the initial stages of beekeeping with confidence and resilience well maximizing your learning opportunities. As you gain experience and expertise, you can expand your apiary and continue to cultivate your passion for beekeeping.
7. How often should I inspect the hive?
Inspect your hive every seven to ten days. However, avoid opening the hive solely to locate the queen during feeding. Instead, focus on identifying signs of her presence, such as eggs, brood, and capped brood. If you happen to spot the queen, consider it a pleasant surprise. Gently return the frame to the hive, close it securely, and refrain from disturbing it for seven days. When establishing comb, feed the bees every other day. Avoid dismantling the hive repeatedly for inspections, as this increases the risk of harming the queen bee.
8. What is Megabee and how can I make some?
I sell it by the pound ready made. But, here is a great recipe if you want to make some yourself.
MegaBee may be used as a Liquid, Patty or Dry Feed
LIQUID
Mix well in a bucket using a paint mixer or a large spoon; making sure that all powder goes in solution. The final product may have a few clumps, this is normal.
4 Cups of MegaBee powder weighs 1 pound
2 Cups of MegaBee powder weighs 1/2 pound
1 Cup of MegaBee powder weighs 1/4 pound
Note: Sugar and water syrup must be mixed at a minimum 2 parts sugar to 1 part water to keep powder in suspension.
Our bees are sourced from Northwest, OR, a region with a climate similar to ours in the Northwest. This ensures that our bees are well-adapted to the local environment and will thrive in their new homes.
2. Are they almond bees?
Yes, our bees have participated in almond pollination. After this intense period, they are given ample time (at least three weeks) to rest and recover, allowing them to raise new nurse bees and prepare for the upcoming honey production season. This rest period ensures that our bees are healthy and vigorous, ready to produce high-quality honey.
3. Where do the queen bees come from?
Our spring queens are sourced from carefully selected breeders in Northern California and Hawaii. These regions provide ideal conditions for raising healthy, productive queens, ensuring that our colonies have the best genetic stock available.
4. How are the bees transported?
Our bees are transported during the cool early morning hours to minimize stress and ensure their safety. They are carefully placed in specially designed enclosed trailers equipped with a soft-ride suspension to prevent jarring and provide a smooth journey. Inside the trailers, fans and multiple fresh air vents maintain optimal ventilation and keep the bees cool. It's important to note that heat buildup primarily occurs in the middle-bottom portion of the bee stacks, not on the outer layers. To address this, we strategically position air vents to effectively circulate air throughout the stacks and prevent overheating. By maintaining a cool and comfortable environment during transport, we ensure the well-being of our bees and minimize stress-related mortality.
5. Do I need to feed the bees?
Yes it is crucial to provide quit supplemental feeding for your bees, especially during periods of nectar scarcity or when they are building new comb. We highly recommend using "complete be "as a staple feed for your colonies. This exceptional product, available in 100 mL bottles, is formulated with a proprietary blend of nutrients and stimulants that promote optimal be health and productivity. Due to its high nutritional value, these consume a significant amount of complete the syrup. For optimal results, we recommend mixing complete bee with a 1:1 sugar syrup in the spring to provide a balanced and energy-rich diet.
If you were planning to hive your bees immediately, it is essential to feed them as their food supply in the shipping container is limited to a single day. Additionally, we recommend provide pollen patties to supplement their protein intake. Pollen is crucial for brood rearing, and with adequate pollen, these cannot properly nourish they're developing larva. Remove the abundance of pollen directly influences the size of the brood population. Plentiful pollen supply leads to a larger and more productive colony.
By incorporate Complete Bee and pollen patties into your feeding regimen, you can ensure that you were bees have the nutritional resources they need to thrive and produce bountiful honey.
6. How many Nucs should I start out with?
Starting with two nucs is an excellent recommendation for beginner beekeepers. This approach offers several advantages:
A. Risk Mitigation: having the nucs provides a safety net in case one colony encounters challenges or succumbs to unforeseen circumstances. If you lose one hive, you still have another thriving colony to maintain and learn from.
B. Queen Replacement: in the event that a queen dies, do you have the option of combining the two nucs, create stronger colony with a healthy queen. This allows for a seamless transition in minimizes potential disruptions to your beekeeping journey.
C. Increased Honey Production: two nucs typically yield more honey than a single nuc, as they have a larger workforce to collect nectar and produce honey.
D. Observational Learning: By managing two nucs, you gain the valuable opportunity to observe the distinct characteristics and behaviors of different colonies. This comparative learning experience enhances your understanding of beekeeping and allows you to identify subtle variations in hive dynamics.
E. Accelerated Learning Curve: Caring for to nucs provides more hands-on experience and exposure to be keeping tasks, accelerating you're learning process and fostering a deeper understanding of colony management.
Starting with two nucs allows you to navigate the initial stages of beekeeping with confidence and resilience well maximizing your learning opportunities. As you gain experience and expertise, you can expand your apiary and continue to cultivate your passion for beekeeping.
7. How often should I inspect the hive?
Inspect your hive every seven to ten days. However, avoid opening the hive solely to locate the queen during feeding. Instead, focus on identifying signs of her presence, such as eggs, brood, and capped brood. If you happen to spot the queen, consider it a pleasant surprise. Gently return the frame to the hive, close it securely, and refrain from disturbing it for seven days. When establishing comb, feed the bees every other day. Avoid dismantling the hive repeatedly for inspections, as this increases the risk of harming the queen bee.
8. What is Megabee and how can I make some?
I sell it by the pound ready made. But, here is a great recipe if you want to make some yourself.
MegaBee may be used as a Liquid, Patty or Dry Feed
LIQUID
Mix well in a bucket using a paint mixer or a large spoon; making sure that all powder goes in solution. The final product may have a few clumps, this is normal.
4 Cups of MegaBee powder weighs 1 pound
2 Cups of MegaBee powder weighs 1/2 pound
1 Cup of MegaBee powder weighs 1/4 pound
Note: Sugar and water syrup must be mixed at a minimum 2 parts sugar to 1 part water to keep powder in suspension.
|
Number of
Bags 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 |
Amount of
MegaBee Powder 1 pound 5 pounds 40 pounds 80 pounds 120 pounds 160 pounds 200 pounds 240 pounds 280 pounds 320 pounds 360 pounds 400 pounds 440 pounds 480 pounds 520 pounds 560 pounds |
Amount of
Liquid 2 gallons 10 gallons 80 gallons 160 gallons 240 gallons 320 gallons 400 gallons 480 gallons 560 gallons 640 gallons 720 gallons 800 gallons 880 gallons 960 gallons 1040 gallons 1120 gallons |
PATTY
Prepare MegaBee patties with a heavy syrup, i.e. fructose corn syrup, 50/50 blend or heavy sucrose syrup (2:1 or greater). For soft, moist patties follow the measurements in the chart below. If firmer patties are preferred, reduce the amount of liquid syrup to 1.5 lbs. of liquid per 1 pound of MegaBee.
Prepare MegaBee patties with a heavy syrup, i.e. fructose corn syrup, 50/50 blend or heavy sucrose syrup (2:1 or greater). For soft, moist patties follow the measurements in the chart below. If firmer patties are preferred, reduce the amount of liquid syrup to 1.5 lbs. of liquid per 1 pound of MegaBee.
|
Amount of MegaBee Powder
1 pound 5 pounds 40 pounds 80 pound 120 pound 160 pound 200 pound *This chart reflects the use of HFCS 55, 50/50 Blend
|
Amount of Liquid
1.7 lbs. = 2 1/3 cups 8.5 lbs. = 11 3/4 cups 68 lbs. = 6 gallons 136 lbs. = 12 gallons 204 lbs. = 18 gallons 272 lbs. = 24 gallons 340 lbs. = 30 gallons |
Patty Material
2.7 pounds 13.5 pounds 108 pounds 216 pounds 324 pounds 432 pounds 540 pounds |
Liquid Media Weights
HFCS 42 = 11.2 lbs./gallon.70 lb. / cup
HFCS 55 = 11.5 lbs. / gallons.72 lb. / cup
Fructose corn syrup / Sucrose Blend = 11.5 lbs./ gal..72 lb. / cup
Sucrose = 11 lbs./gallon.69 lb. / cup
Average Weight
11.3 lbs. /gallon = .71 lb. / cup
HFCS 42 = 11.2 lbs./gallon.70 lb. / cup
HFCS 55 = 11.5 lbs. / gallons.72 lb. / cup
Fructose corn syrup / Sucrose Blend = 11.5 lbs./ gal..72 lb. / cup
Sucrose = 11 lbs./gallon.69 lb. / cup
Average Weight
11.3 lbs. /gallon = .71 lb. / cup
DRY FEED
Utilize standard Dry Feed Methods.
TIP
When mixing the product it may appear a little thin. If allowed to stand overnight, the mix will absorb some of the liquid, causing the patties to be firmer.
Utilize standard Dry Feed Methods.
TIP
When mixing the product it may appear a little thin. If allowed to stand overnight, the mix will absorb some of the liquid, causing the patties to be firmer.
9. What is 1:1 sugar syrup, and how can I make some?
Use this link: How to make 1:1 sugar syrup.
10. How often do you feed the bees?
I inspect the bees' food supply every three days to ensure they have enough during comb and brood development. Avoid using dark or organic sugars, as they can cause dysentery in bees. The particles in these sugars are too large for bees to digest efficiently, leading to weight loss and death. Instead, opt for a complete bee food supplement specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. Complete Bee is a relatively new product that has gained popularity due to its positive impact on bee health and lifespan. It is currently approved for sale in 30 countries, indicating its effectiveness and adherence to safety standards.
11. Why use Complete Bee food supplement?
Complete Bee food supplement offers several benefits for honeybees, particularly after transportation or during periods of stress. It provides them with essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, that support their growth, development, and overall well-being. By enhancing their nutritional intake, Complete Bee can help bees build brood faster, leading to a stronger colony and increased honey production. Moreover, the supplement's ability to promote longevity contributes to a healthier and more productive hive.
12. Do I need a Pollen Patty?
Yes, you definitely need pollen patties. Our Megabee pollen patties are the best available, made from high-quality AP23 pollen. We are the only supplier to pack our pollen patties with Complete Bee, a full-strength triple-powered supplement. During cooler periods when bees have limited access to natural pollen sources, these patties provide essential protein for the queen to fatten up and for producing food for newly hatched bees. Give your hive a strong start by feeding them our Megabee pollen patties with Complete Bee, formulated with our exclusive proprietary formula.
12. Is it mandatory to include Nosevit in the sugar syrup?
Yes, Nozevit is recommended for feeding honeybees, even though Complete Bee already contains it. Maintaining a healthy colony is crucial, and Nozevit has been shown to be effective in helping to eliminate Nosema C from the bee's midgut under normal conditions. Additionally, Nozevit helps to balance the bee's pH, enabling it to better absorb nutrients. This information is based on research conducted by the University of Zagreb, Croatia, on Nozevit. We have included a link to the study on our homepage. In Croatia, the federal government has implemented a law prohibiting beekeepers from feeding their bees fumagillin or any other chemicals. Nozevit is a natural product.
13. Is it a good idea to know the life cycle of the honey bee?
Yes, memorize the life cycle of the honey bee, so you will be able to identify which stage your hive is in.
14. Do you want the Nuc packages back?
Sure! I do not charge you for them, and I appreciate getting them back so I can re-use them. If you rip the side off the box to get the bees out, then just go ahead and keep the box. However please note, it is not necessary to rip the box apart to get the bees out. They are flying insects and they want to stay in the box with the other bees. They will come out on their own when they are ready. Just be patient. The cans are special also, because they do not leak. Also, you can refill a can. They have a lid on top, similar to a paint can.
Use this link: How to make 1:1 sugar syrup.
10. How often do you feed the bees?
I inspect the bees' food supply every three days to ensure they have enough during comb and brood development. Avoid using dark or organic sugars, as they can cause dysentery in bees. The particles in these sugars are too large for bees to digest efficiently, leading to weight loss and death. Instead, opt for a complete bee food supplement specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. Complete Bee is a relatively new product that has gained popularity due to its positive impact on bee health and lifespan. It is currently approved for sale in 30 countries, indicating its effectiveness and adherence to safety standards.
11. Why use Complete Bee food supplement?
Complete Bee food supplement offers several benefits for honeybees, particularly after transportation or during periods of stress. It provides them with essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, that support their growth, development, and overall well-being. By enhancing their nutritional intake, Complete Bee can help bees build brood faster, leading to a stronger colony and increased honey production. Moreover, the supplement's ability to promote longevity contributes to a healthier and more productive hive.
12. Do I need a Pollen Patty?
Yes, you definitely need pollen patties. Our Megabee pollen patties are the best available, made from high-quality AP23 pollen. We are the only supplier to pack our pollen patties with Complete Bee, a full-strength triple-powered supplement. During cooler periods when bees have limited access to natural pollen sources, these patties provide essential protein for the queen to fatten up and for producing food for newly hatched bees. Give your hive a strong start by feeding them our Megabee pollen patties with Complete Bee, formulated with our exclusive proprietary formula.
12. Is it mandatory to include Nosevit in the sugar syrup?
Yes, Nozevit is recommended for feeding honeybees, even though Complete Bee already contains it. Maintaining a healthy colony is crucial, and Nozevit has been shown to be effective in helping to eliminate Nosema C from the bee's midgut under normal conditions. Additionally, Nozevit helps to balance the bee's pH, enabling it to better absorb nutrients. This information is based on research conducted by the University of Zagreb, Croatia, on Nozevit. We have included a link to the study on our homepage. In Croatia, the federal government has implemented a law prohibiting beekeepers from feeding their bees fumagillin or any other chemicals. Nozevit is a natural product.
13. Is it a good idea to know the life cycle of the honey bee?
Yes, memorize the life cycle of the honey bee, so you will be able to identify which stage your hive is in.
14. Do you want the Nuc packages back?
Sure! I do not charge you for them, and I appreciate getting them back so I can re-use them. If you rip the side off the box to get the bees out, then just go ahead and keep the box. However please note, it is not necessary to rip the box apart to get the bees out. They are flying insects and they want to stay in the box with the other bees. They will come out on their own when they are ready. Just be patient. The cans are special also, because they do not leak. Also, you can refill a can. They have a lid on top, similar to a paint can.
Here's a summary of the important first steps in beekeeping:
- Educate Yourself: Read books and articles about beekeeping, attend beekeeping classes, and join a local beekeeping association to gain knowledge and insights from experienced beekeepers.
- Accept Stings: Acknowledging that stings are an inevitable part of beekeeping helps prepare you mentally and emotionally for the occasional discomfort.
- Connect with Local Beekeepers: Visit beekeeping farms or beekeepers in your area to observe their practices, ask questions, and learn from their firsthand experiences.
- Read Extensively: Continuously expand your knowledge by reading books, articles, and online resources about beekeeping to stay updated on best practices and new techniques.
- Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask experienced beekeepers and fellow enthusiasts questions to clarify doubts and gain a deeper understanding of beekeeping.
- Nurture Dedication: Beekeeping requires patience, intelligence, and a genuine desire to care for these fascinating creatures.
- Evaluate Costs and Commitment: Research the initial costs of equipment and bees, and realistically assess the time commitment required for regular hive maintenance and honey extraction.
- Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who is willing to share their expertise, open their hives for observation, and guide you through hands-on beekeeping experiences.
- Experience the Bees: Immerse yourself in the presence of bees to determine if beekeeping sparks joy, wonder, and amazement or triggers fear and apprehension.
- Maintain a Calm Approach: Stay calm and composed during hive inspections and interactions with bees. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises that could agitate the colony.