We asked Jane from Millbrook Road Apiary to clue us in on the perfect place to set your beehive. Here are some guidelines that Jane provided us with after spending more than a decade raising successful bees:
In no particular order…
A secluded and undeveloped patch of wildflowers and trees about an acre in size is perfect.
Crop ground, especially corn, is a food desert for bees, and a potential source of pesticide contamination.
Be considerate of your neighbors, human and otherwise
Bees are much happier in sun than in shade
Bees appreciate relief in the heat of a summer day
Bees need protection from winter winds
Bees need a drinking water source near their yard
Bees like the chlorine in swimming pools
Face the beehive opening directly opposite of prevailing winds, typically facing eastward in Ohio
Keep the beehives off the ground. If skunks and raccoons are a problem, raise them about a foot off the ground.
If you’re looking for tips on raising bees, please check out our Beginner’s Tips article or check out our Helpful Resources link. You may also email us at [email protected] for additional support.