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Hey fellow earthlings! My wife and I started our beekeeping journey with 3 colonies in April 2019. We expanded to over 50 colonies spread across 7 bee yards in 2020. We were at markets all spring and summer and now have a handful of local stores selling our honey. It has taken quite a sustained effort and endless creativity just to keep up with the demand. We have been able to give back to our communities by being active in our local and state bee clubs, teaching preschool classes and summer camps about bees, and spreading a whole bunch of pollinator love! Our beekeeping adventure so far has been one of the most rewarding endeavors of our lives. The connections we have forged with so many amazing human beings have been just as heartwarming as all of the work with the bees.
Now here we are already making plans for 2021. We have 10 additional yards lined up. 2 are substantial in size. One is 50 acres the other is 150 acres. Both of the big ones are less that 1 hour from home. We are researching grants and possible sba loans because an influx of capital right now would really put this thing into hyperdrive. I digress, for that is for another thread. Our short term goal is to significantly increase honey production. Our long term goal is to winter our bees in Florida for build up on oranges and then do Cali. Our current question is for all of you sideliners and pros who have been where we are:
What is the most cost effective way to add numbers? We are looking to at least double in 2021. I have had some people advise me to do a big woodenware order with one of the big outfitters and continue buying packages. Others have mentioned buying colonies off the almonds. We are looking for insight so that we invest wisely for 2021.
The most important lesson we have learned in beekeeping so far is that there is always another lesson regardless of skill level. The second most important lesson we have learned is to listen and learn from those who have come before. Any help is so very appreciated!
Now here we are already making plans for 2021. We have 10 additional yards lined up. 2 are substantial in size. One is 50 acres the other is 150 acres. Both of the big ones are less that 1 hour from home. We are researching grants and possible sba loans because an influx of capital right now would really put this thing into hyperdrive. I digress, for that is for another thread. Our short term goal is to significantly increase honey production. Our long term goal is to winter our bees in Florida for build up on oranges and then do Cali. Our current question is for all of you sideliners and pros who have been where we are:
What is the most cost effective way to add numbers? We are looking to at least double in 2021. I have had some people advise me to do a big woodenware order with one of the big outfitters and continue buying packages. Others have mentioned buying colonies off the almonds. We are looking for insight so that we invest wisely for 2021.
The most important lesson we have learned in beekeeping so far is that there is always another lesson regardless of skill level. The second most important lesson we have learned is to listen and learn from those who have come before. Any help is so very appreciated!