Question About Bee Keeping

[Nyboy]

I have been thinking about getting bees for a couple of years. I read somewhere NEVER buy a used hive, because of mites. Is this true, you know how I love a CL bargain.

 

[lesa]

Nyboy, that is a tough one... You know, new equipment really isn't that expensive. Presuming you would want only one or two hives. I personally wouldn't risk it. You would feel bad if your bees died for a "bargain".

 

[Nyboy]

Good point Lesa save a few dollars chance losing Bees. I only want one small hive, not even interested in collecting honey at this time.

 

[dickiebird]

Bees are a lot of work, especially in a climate like you have.
Do lots of research before jumping into bee keeping.
I was interested in bees but after talking with other beeks I passed.

THANX RICH

 

[lesa]

If you are not overly interested in collecting honey you might want to look into the top bar hive. We joined a bee group at Cornell Cooperative Extension before we started beekeeping. Lots of helpful, experienced folks to share information with.

 

[so lucky]

@Nyboy, if there are any beekeepers around you---like in the county---maybe they are wanting other areas to put a hive, perhaps your property. You might be able to get the benefits of having bees in the garden, without any of the work.

 

[journey11]

You can take a propane torch and scald every inch of the inside of a used hive to sterilize it. Some will also dip it in bleach water. Your beek club may also have access to an autoclave. They have pesticides that will take care of mites. The president of my beek club says he doesn't take any chances when it comes to American Foul Brood disease if found and will burn the whole hive. But I've read online in bee forums that torching the inside should be good enough. I wouldn't reuse any frames and wax. Those are cheaper to replace. If you buy any bees or an existing hive, you can have someone from the Ag. Commission come out and inspect for disease and pests. They will do it free here.

Even if you're just getting bees for pollination or having someone place their bees on your property, I'd still recommend attending some meetings with your local club or joining ($6/year here). It will open up a lot of resources to you and you will learn so much. Bees are amazing.

You'll not be bored!

 

[Nyboy]

I found a bee keeper looking for a garden on CL of course LOL

 

[Nyboy]

I could give guidance and support. this would be very helpful for a 1st timer. I would charge a small fee if I came to where your bees are and that would depend how much time it takes me.
Also may have Nucs (Bees) available in the spring.
I placed this on craigs list in an attempt to get more property to place more hives. But would be glad to help you get started, its really a great hobby.
Thanks Hope this helps
Rich

On Thu, Jan 21, 2016 at 10:06 AM, craigslist reply 7cd8 <7cd86e1428c230a092aab5f18fb76e6d@reply.craigslist.org> wrote:
Hi I am looking to start a bee hive this spring at my weekend home in Lagrange can you tell me more about your servces


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[Nyboy]

any advise on what I should ask if I let him set up hives in my garden?