Important: While there is general agreement on these guidelines, there are other opinions. Beekeeping is as much an art as it is a science. Expect to hear many different opinions. Differing opinions do not necessarily mean someone is right and others wrong. Varying opinions represent different paths toward reaching the same goal: Raising honey-bees, harvesting honey and having fun.
Questions About Locating Beehives on My Property.
OK. I am serious about becoming a beekeeper. I have a lot of questions. – Here are some – I am sure there will be more.
Q: What should I be thinking about first?
A: In approximately this order:
- Begin reading up. There are several good books available. Keep it simple.
- Find a beekeeping group with which to work. There are several clubs in and around Marion County. Check the Beekeepers of Indiana website for names, meeting times and locations of clubs near you.
- Where will you locate your hives? What makes a good location.
- What type of hive and personal equipment will you need
- Where will you be obtaining your bees
- Did I mention finding a beekeeping group and Mentors?
Q: How soon must I decide on a location?
A: Early, siting should be done well before your bees arrive.
Q: Does it matter where I locate my bees on my property?
A: Yes! Advance planning for site location is important. Do include your significant other in the decision! There are good reasons for this. It may save your relationship. And you will not have to move your bees later on. — Why?
- Relocating an active hive is not easy and can weaken your colony. Site hives to avoid moving them during the beekeeping season
- Honey-bees have a highly developed homing instinct – down to inches. . If the hive is moved even only a few feet field bees leaving the new location will return to the original location! Many of these field bees will die and you have just decreased hive strength and have set back its foraging capacity.
- (If moving your bees is an absolute necessity there are procedures to follow. Ask experienced beekeepers to advise you.)
Q: What makes for good hive locations?
A: There are several factors; satisfying all of them is almost impossible. Here are considerations for the Bees, Beekeeper, Public.
From the Bees’ Perspective:
- Facing south or south-east. The earlier the sun hits the hive, the earlier they begin foraging.
- Avoid extreme shade. Some afternoon shade can be helpful.
- A wind break against winter winds: building, shrubbery, board fence, etc.
- Something that will not flood with heavy rains.
- Access to nearby water, within a half-mile is best. Bees need water, particularly in hot dry summer months.
From the Beekeeper’s Perspective:
- Around each hive
- Three feet of space all around each hive, including the rear. This allows free movement around each hive.
- No low branches or other low growth to get in you way durning inspections. – Remember, the hive will be getting taller as the season progresses and you add more supers.
- To the hive site by a garden cart or other vehicle.
- Hive boxes, tools, feeding jars and other equipment will be taken to and from the site. – Less frustrating if it can be done in a single trip.
- Boxes full of honey are HEAVY, not easily carried.
From the public’s perspective: Be a responsible beekeeper!
- DO NOT face hives directly onto a neighbor’s property or other public right of way.
- A less visible location is preferred, g. a back yard.
- Maintain a reasonable number of hives. – Indianapolis-Marion Co. currently permits up to 8 hives per property. If your lot is small keep it down to 2 or 3.
- Be prepared if a colony swarms. – Swarms are not dangerous, but the public does not know this.
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Q: What about a location other than my home
A: Perhaps you have another site in mind or a property in a more rural area.
- The same considerations for on-site hive placement apply.
- Be sure you can get a vehicle up to your hives, and reliable 24/7 access
- Keep in mind however, further from your home, the less convenient it will be.
- Off site locations are less likely to receive adequate attention.