Raising Honeybees in the Suburbs

After taking a few entomology classes at the University of Minnesota. I discovered with fascination the world of insects, especially honey bees. It will be my seventh year as a beekeeper and I am sure a new adventure as well.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Last Bee Pollen and Nectar

Manure spreader among goldenrods!

August 20, 2014

My friend Gayle made me laugh the other day. She was my handy dandy helper, recording the info seen on each frame for a study on Varroa mites.  While walking towards the colonies, I was happy to see  the goldenrods were finally flowering, and with her beautiful smile she said: "Are you talking about those weeds?" pointing to the wonderful patch they have on their property where my hives are located. I told her that it was fantastic to have so many right here for the bees. After all what we think are weeds, are very often the most appreciated flowers for honeybees like the dandelions in spring.

In the  fall the goldenrod bloom will be the last food they will take back to their hives before the snow starts falling! Thus an important plant for many pollinators.

I happen to like them, they look like feathers, and when it is windy they seem to dance in the patch!




The honeybees are busy filling their "pantry" bringing back tons of nectar and pollen. They will be industrious until the first frost. Then they will be staying indoors from November to April or so... That is 6 months. Can you stay home for 6 months and not go to the grocery store once? That's what I thought , me neither I cannot and I am a very good "planer". 

The bees' main job is to prepare for winter, consolidating their nest, making sure they have enough food, and that everyone is healthy. Soon, the worker bees (all females) will kick out all the drones (males) out of the hive . Remember  drones do not participate in any colony work, and now at the end of summer, sadly, no one needs them. By pushing them away, they will die of starvation just in front of the entrance. It is a survival reflex so they don't consume the food reserve. The worst I think is that I believe they know that they cannot go back in, we can see them crawling aimlessly on the grass in front of the hive...very sad indeed.


Thursday, August 07, 2014

Beekeeping Classes in Eden Prairie, MN Fall 2014


Hello all,

I am so excited to be teaching this fall in Eden Prairie.
Again few beekeeping classes will be offered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.
They will take place at the Eden Prairie Education Center: 


                                    8040 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie MN 55344

             Website:    https://edenprairie.thatscommunityed.com/search/beekeeping%22 

                                        Phone(952)975-6900

                                       Mark your Calendar & Register Early
                                            I hope to see many of you!

Beekeepers in action!




1. Exploring Beekeeping
Wednesday, September 24, 2014 from 6:30-8:30pm
Price: $15
Location: Eden Prairie Education Center         Room: 201
                 8040 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie MN 55344

This two-hour course offers an introduction and brief overview of beekeeping. It will cover: city ordinances, equipment, time and financial requirements, races of honey bees, beehives location, obtaining and installing your new bees, honey plants and bee food needs, pollination, pesticides, as well as helping your honey bees to stay healthy. If you are interested in keeping honey bees, but not yet sure how to start, this class is for you. After taking this course, you will be able to make a well-informed decision about keeping bees in your backyard. Limit: 25

2. Backyard Beekeeping I
Wednesdays: October 8, 22 and 29, 2014 (no classes October 15) From 6:30-8:30pm
Price: $35
Location: Eden Prairie Education Center   Room: 201
                8040 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie MN 55344

What's the buzz? Join part 1 of our backyard beekeeping class! It is an introduction to keeping bees by learning the basic beekeeping skills: history, honeybee society and biology, equipment, hive products and more! Learn much of what you need to know to start a new hobby -- caring for and enjoying your own honeybees. Limit: 25

3. Backyard Beekeeping II
Wednesdays: November 5, 12 and 19, 2014 from 6:30-8:30pm
Price: $35
Location: Eden Prairie Education Center Room: 201
                8040 Mitchell Road, Eden Prairie MN 55344

Looking to take your backyard beekeeping skills to the next level? In part 2 of our Backyard Beekeeping series, you will learn all about seasonal colony management like fall harvest and processing. We will also discuss bee health and what you can do to keep your hive healthy. At the end of this class series, you will have all the knowledge necessary to create, cultivate and grow a thriving beehive! Limit: 25

https://edenprairie.thatscommunityed.com/search/beekeeping%22