Beekeeping

[Skean Dhude]

LS,

I've just noticed this post. Missed it first time around.

I'm just starting myself but here is my understanding.

(9 October 2013, 07:52)Lightspeed Wrote: How labour intensive are bees to keep? Is it possible to set up hives in such a way that three weekly attention will keep them healthy? Until the book arrives, I'm guessing that I'll have to lay on some sort of water /drinking station arrangement?

Not very labour intensive at all. After all they are wild animals and if placed correctly they will look after themselves. It is best if you can provide plenty of water as you don't want them moving out to get a home closer to some. The books say an hour or so every week excluding harvesting the honey and a couple of hours to open and shut the hives at the ends of the seasons. It sounds doable to me.

(9 October 2013, 07:52)Lightspeed Wrote: What time of year is it best to establish a new hive?

They start around April over here. I have no idea what they are where you are.I would establish a full colony though to make sure they get a good start.

(9 October 2013, 07:52)Lightspeed Wrote: Are there specific hive recommendations?

There are several different hive types. Each beekeeper swears by his. I have a Beehaus system which is self contained and easier to manage. Not as much lifting and hefting after the lifting and hefting to get it in place. It uses a common frame set as well.

(9 October 2013, 07:52)Lightspeed Wrote: How to over-winter bee colonies in sub zero conditions?

Overwintering is covered in the books. Just make sure they go into winter with plenty of food and you can help by protecting the hive and keeping it out of freezing winds.

Good luck.