For years, bees have produced honey which has become an important part of our consumer industry. Honey products are used in many different foods and even drinks. Additionally, the process of beekeeping and honey producing is very complex and interesting. Many have turned it into a hobby, thus controlling the honey that they produce. If you are a beginner and would like more information about beekeeping and producing your own honey, these tips will help.
Research and learn as much as you can before
Just as you should with any hobby, research and learn as much as you can about beekeeping before jumping in. You might find that the hobby is simply not for you and you don?t want to waste money or time on necessary beekeeping equipment. While you do your research, you will want to collect information about how to begin beekeeping, what types of equipment you will need, and the amount of time it takes. Beekeeping can be a timely hobby that requires a lot of dedication and commitment.
You will also want to do research about climate. Some climates are better for producing honey, while others do not have consistent enough climate for it. In 2013, the state of North Dakota led the way in honey production with 33 million pounds of honey produced. This increase of honey production is due to the fact that North Dakota tends to have a good climate for honey production, as well as the fact that there are many beekeepers in the area.
Invest in high quality beekeeping equipment
To properly keep bees and produce honey, you will need to invest in the appropriate supplies. You will need a beekeeper habitat. You will also need necessary supplies to turn the items collected into honey. A bee hive smoker should hold bulk honey and should separate the bee pollen out of the consumable honey source. You will also want to track the amount of honey you produce. In 2014, there were an estimated 2.7 million honeybee colonies in the U.S., a number that is tracked by the USDA. Make sure you are properly tracking.
You will also want to invest in a high quality beekeeping suit and beekeeper hat. Bees contain stingers and it is possible that you can get stung, so you should not have an allergy to bees. Going with a cheaper or discounted beekeeping suit will also possibly result in more stings. Instead, invest in a high quality beekeeping suit that will keep you protected from the stinger bees, both when collecting the honey and when taking care of the bees around the bee hive smoker.
Develop a plan for what you will do with your honey
Try not to waste the honey that you produce. If you are producing more honey than you and your family can consume, consider selling it. Since 2006, the retail price of honey has almost doubled, making it a great product to produce and sell. Additionally, your neighbors and family will appreciate the gift of freshly produced honey, considering that it continues to get more and more expensive to purchase. You will also need a large enough bee hive smoker to match the amount of honey that you are producing.
Honey is a favorite food item in the United States. It is produced by bees and requires special equipment and a specialized beekeeper to produce the honey. A bee hive smoker is often used to create a commercialized honey production. You can take your interest and hobby of honey making and bee keeping and turn it into a very profitable business.