What is the Best Time of Day to Harvest Honey?

Honey harvesting is one of the sweet rewards of beekeeping, with timing playing a crucial role in the quality and quantity of honey collected. The best time of day to harvest honey varies depending on factors such as location, climate, and the specific season.

The most active honey-producing months in the United States are usually June, July, and August. However, this can differ depending on the region and its climate. For example, in tropical areas, bees tend to produce honey year-round, whereas, in temperate climates, the honey flow is heavily influenced by the blooming patterns of local flowers. Before we look into the best time of day to harvest, let’s delve a little deeper into the process of harvesting.

What Is Burr Comb and Is It a Problem?

Burr comb can be a headache to deal with during hive inspections. It usually occurs when there is a gap larger than 3/8″ between hive parts or when the bees build comb on top of the frames or against the hive’s wall. Though it is a natural behavior for honey bees, burr comb can be problematic for beekeepers during hive inspections, as it may join together frames that should remain separate and make it challenging to navigate through the hive.

Proper management of the hive, including regular inspections and addressing any excessive burr comb formation, can help ensure that the hive remains organized and easy to manage.

What Color Should I Paint My Beehive?

The appropriate color for your beehive depends on several factors, such as the climate, the location, and personal preferences. In this article, we will explore the factors you should consider when deciding what color to paint your beehive.

This article will delve into the science behind these color choices, and provide tips and ideas for painting your hives.

What is a Hive Tool and How to Use One Properly

A hive tool is a handheld multipurpose implement designed specifically for beekeeping tasks. These tools come in different designs and styles. They all serve two primary functions: prying apart hive components and scraping off excess propolis or wax buildup. The variety of designs caters to the different preferences and needs of beekeepers.

Since it’s used frequently in beekeeping, the hive tool is considered an essential part of a beekeeper’s toolkit.

What Are the Best Fuels for Bee Smokers?

Bee smokers are used to calm honey bees within a hive when conducting inspections or maintenance. Choosing the right fuel for a bee smoker can affect the health and well-being of the bees. The beekeeper’s responsibility is to find the best fuel that generates enough smoke while remaining safe for the bees.

The best fuels for bee smokers are natural, nontoxic materials that smolder rather than burn quickly, providing a steady and cool smoke that doesn’t harm the bees. The following paragraphs will discuss several fuel options and their benefits, ensuring a well-informed decision for the betterment of your beekeeping experience.

Warre Hive vs Langstroth Hive

Two of the most popular beehive types used today are the Warre and Langstroth hives, each offering its strengths and weaknesses and appealing to different beekeeping methods and objectives.

In this article, we will explore the key differences between Warre and Langstroth hives, helping you understand which type works best for you.

How to Stop Bees From Drowning in My Pool

With the arrival of warmer weather, many people enjoy spending time by the pool, including our buzzing little friends: bees. In their quest to collect water to cool their hives, bees will seem to swarm at the pool, many of them drowning, causing distress to pool owners and the colony. In this article, we will explore various methods to help you keep bees from drowning in your pool, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for both humans and bees.