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Beekeeping can be very rewarding, especially financially.
Cultivating honey for profit can put some extra cash in your pocket and might eventually turn into a profitable business.
It is important to understand that initially it can be pretty expensive with hives going for as much as $300 each.
And you can't have just the hive.
You'll need other equipment like protective gear for yourself, a smoker and more.
So if you are going to be spending that much on just the start up costs, it would be a good idea to learn as much as you can beforehand.
Though many beginners think that buying a colony that's already been established is the way to go, it can cause numerous problems.
It's best to get some experience under your belt before buying used equipment or colonies.
Start small and as you gain more knowledge you can build on your colony size later in the season.
After you have got all the proper equipment, the next step is getting your bees.
Many companies sell package bees for shipping across the U.
S.
It is not uncommon for more advanced beekeepers to buy packaged bees to help strengthen existing colonies that may be weak for some reason or another.
It is typical to buy bees in a 2-3 pound size for just getting started.
And don't forget to buy the queen.
Consider the winter months of January or February as the best time to order your bee package.
Be sure your hives have been set up in the desired location before the arrival of your bees.
When your new colony arrives check for the numbers of dead bees.
Though it is usual that some bees will die during transport, but too many dead or if the queen is dead, there are other issues and replacements should be requested.
A question that is on the mind of all beginners is how to get the bees into the hive.
Though there are many ways to do this, a popular method is called direct release.
First remove the frames from the hive.
Then begin by scattering sugar syrup over the bees before letting them out so that their wings will be soaked preventing them from flying around.
Then you'll want to gently bang the cage to force the bees to fall to the bottom of the cage.
Remove the queen cage and slowly pour your new bees into the hive.
Whatever bees are left in the cage can be gently shaken into the hive.
Leave the cage next to the hive for 24 hours.
Next, the queen can be released into the hive by letting her climb out herself.
Then carefully put the frames back into the hive making sure you don't injure any of the bees.
Now you are ready to start your beekeeping venture.
Keep in mind that you still have a lot to learn, basically let the bees do their job and you will reap the sweet rewards.
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