So you want to become a beekeeper but where do you start?
Beekeeping is more than a hobby — it’s a rewarding way to connect with nature, support pollinators, and produce your own honey. Whether you want to keep a few hives in your backyard or start a small honey business, anyone can become a beekeeper.
Here’s how to get started.
Joining a local beekeeping association is one of the best steps you can take. You’ll meet experienced beekeepers and potential mentors, learn about local conditions and pests, and discover how regional weather and flora affect your bees. Most local associations also help beginners establish their first colonies and ensure they are set up with all the necessary equipment.
2. Learn the Basics
Take time to understand how honey bees live and work. Honeybee are complex insects that depend on their colony to thrive. Every bee works together for the good of the colony.
Read books – BeeCabulary Essentials by Andrew Connor is an excellent starter level textbook to help you understand the language of bees.
Take a beginner beekeeping class – many local clubs and association offer beginner level classes throughout the year. Talk to your club to find out more.
3. Find a Mentor
The most experienced beekeeper will tell you that they are always learning new things about the practice. An experienced mentor or beekeeper is crucial to your success as a new beekeeper. Your local association can connect you with a mentor local to you.
4. Bee Patient!
Treat every event as a learning opportunity rather than a failure. There will be hive losses, pests and diseases to manage but you will learn and grow to become a better beekeeper with each and every experience.