Beekeeping: First Year Frustrations

This year is my first year to be a beekeeper. I took that class and got all geared up. Feeling unbeatable I
pushed through the Summer doing my little inspections. My thoughts mostly was that I just need to leave the bees alone. I didn’t want to disturb them too much. They have been doing this for a very long time, I don’t need to get in there and mess it up for them.

Well, something went wrong. I’m not sure what exactly went wrong, but it appears that I lost my Queen. The hive seemed so strong earlier in the Summer.

Let me just say here that when you start something new, especially something with so many dynamic variables like beekeeping, it’s easy to get and stay confused. I’ve looked at all kinds of resources, printed and online. There are a lot of different opinions. My strategy going is was that of the beekeeper where I took my class. Then I read a blog, then a book, then a beekeepers website… then I asked questions on communities and forums. Wow… There are so many approaches to this hobby.

Moving forward I know I would like to pursue a form of beekeeping that is more natural with fewer treatments. I care about the bees so the goal is to give them an environment where they can build their own defenses. The questions are “Where is the line?” “When do I treat, or just leave them alone?” “How much is too little or too much?”.  I mean, look… my first hive is failing. I didn’t treat all Summer. Is it failing BECAUSE I didn’t treat? Would it have failed anyway? Was it a sign of a dying hive when I saw the weak bees being kicked out of the hive?

I don’t know all the answers. Heck, I don’t hardly any answers yet, but I’m not quitting. There is too much value in the fight for the bees. Even though I may have failed this one colony, I believe that I will help others as I learn more.

Check out some videos of my recent Beekeeping adventures.

The inspection where I suspect much is wrong.

The Treatment that was Too Little Too Late.

The yucky signs of Wax Moth and Beetles

The Signs? Old/Sick bees being kicked out of hive.

Not Quitting! Check me out building more hive boxes.


Greenstalk Vertical Garden planted with vegetables next to a wooden fence.

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One thought on “Beekeeping: First Year Frustrations”

  1. I watched some of your beekeeping videos and really liked the natural wood look of your hives. Can you tell me what kind of wood you use and what you use to preserve the hives? I am a novice and really appreciate your videos. Thank you

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