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Every spring, when the pollen starts flying, I get the same question from market customers and visitors to my apiary: “If I eat local honey, will it help with my allergies?” It’s one of the most common beliefs about honey, and it makes sense at first glance. After all, allergies are caused by pollen, and honey contains pollen. But the truth is more complicated and as a beekeeper, I think it’s important to explain both the science and the practical side of the story. In this article, we’ll explore: What…

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If you keep bees long enough, you’ll eventually find yourself making a split. In the simplest terms, a split is just what it sounds like, taking one strong colony and dividing it into two (or more). Sounds straightforward, right? Well, yes and no. The idea is simple, but the ways to split and the reasons for doing it are as varied as the beekeepers out there. Why Make a Split? Beekeepers split colonies for all kinds of reasons: The Basics of a Good Split While there are many ways to…

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If you’ve kept bees for any length of time, you’ve probably asked or been asked this question: “How can I stop my bees from swarming?” A common answer is, “Give them more room so they don’t feel crowded.”From there, we end up with the statement: “Crowding causes swarming.”But is it really that simple? Swarming Isn’t Just About Space In his excellent book Honeybee Democracy, Dr. Thomas Seeley points out: “To this day, no one knows what specific stimuli the worker bees are sensing and integrating when they make the critical…

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So, you’ve decided you want to keep bees. Congratulations you’ve officially joined the ranks of people who are willing to share their backyard with thousands of tiny, flying, occasionally moody roommates. Welcome to the club. This is your crash course in starting a hive without losing your shirt, your patience, or your queen. Why Beekeeping is Worth the Sting Risk Bees are more than honey-makers. They’re pollinators, teachers, therapists, and occasionally comedians (just wait until you see one tumble out of a flower). They’ll pull you outside more often, connect…

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