Welcome to Beekeeping For Newbees! This podcast is your ultimate resource for learning how to keep honeybees. Whether you're just starting out or looking to dee...
Episode 126 - Varroa Mites: The “HIV” of the Bee World and Why They’re So Destructive 🐝🪲
In this episode, I dive deep into the biology and behavior of Varroa mites and why they’re often compared to HIV in their devastating impact on honeybee colonies. Learn how these parasites spread viruses, weaken colonies, and leave bees vulnerable to secondary infections. I also explore effective management strategies to keep these relentless pests under control. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a seasoned beekeeper, this episode is packed with crucial insights and actionable advice to protect your bees. 🐝✨What’s Inside This Episode:Varroa Mites Unveiled: Why they’re compared to HIV and the havoc they wreak.Virus Vectors: How Varroa mites spread deadly viruses through hemolymph.Management Strategies: Proven treatments and techniques to reduce mite populations.The Role of Genetics: How bee breeds impact susceptibility to Varroa.Common Missteps: Avoiding pitfalls in Varroa management.Why Listen to This Episode?If you want to deepen your understanding of Varroa mites and gain confidence in tackling them effectively, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away with practical tips and knowledge to protect your colonies from this pervasive threat.Support the Show:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping for Newbees is your go-to podcast for practical advice, real-world insights, and the tools you need to succeed as a beekeeper. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, we’re here to help every step of the way.
--------
28:41
Episode 125 - My 2025 Varroa Strategy: Stay Ahead of the Mite Problem 🐝
In this episode, I walk you through my updated 2025 strategy for tackling the persistent challenge of Varroa mites. We’ll explore my go-to treatment methods, the reasoning behind them, and new techniques I plan to implement this year. From managing mite resistance to integrating sacrificial drone brood, I share actionable steps to keep your colonies healthy and thriving. Whether you’re a new beekeeper or an experienced pro, this episode is full of practical insights you can apply to your apiary! 🐝✨What’s Inside This Episode:Why Varroa Management Matters: The critical impact of mites on colony health.Updated Treatments for 2025: Oxalic acid, Randy Oliver’s OA pads, and more.Timing Is Everything: The best times to treat your colonies for maximum efficacy.Sacrificial Drone Brood: A simple and natural way to reduce mite populations.Misinformation in Beekeeping: How to sort through conflicting advice and find what works for you.Why Listen to This Episode?If you’re committed to keeping your colonies healthy, this episode offers a detailed breakdown of strategies to tackle Varroa mites effectively. You’ll walk away with clear guidance and confidence to implement a sustainable mite management plan.Support the Show:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping for Newbees is your go-to podcast for practical advice, real-world insights, and the tools you need to succeed as a beekeeper. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, we’re here to help every step of the way.
--------
30:32
Episode 124 - How the Polar Vortex Affects Honeybees 🌬️🐝
In this special episode of Beekeeping For Newbees, we address the pressing concerns beekeepers face during a polar vortex. As cold air sweeps across regions, questions pour in about how these extreme conditions impact honeybee colonies. If you’re worried about your bees, this episode is for you!What’s Inside This Episode:What is a polar vortex, and how does it affect hive temperatures?The fascinating way bees generate and retain heat within the cluster.How extreme cold increases honey consumption and what it means for your winter stores.Practical tips for protecting hives from harsh winds and ensuring proper ventilation.Insight into preparing for unusual cold spells and why bees are better equipped for survival than we think.Why Listen to This Episode: Discover how bees manage to stay warm even in sub-zero conditions and what steps you can take to give them the best chance of survival. With simple, actionable advice, this episode helps both new and experienced beekeepers stay calm and proactive during harsh winter weather.Support the Show: Find more tips, videos, and community discussions at beekeepingfornewbees.com. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow beekeepers!About the Podcast: Beekeeping For Newbees is your ultimate guide to starting and maintaining thriving beehives. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your skills, our episodes provide step-by-step advice, tips, and insights from an experienced beekeeper.
--------
18:52
Episode 123 - Where to Place Your Hives 🐝🏡
In this episode, we continue our journey to help new beekeepers get started on the right foot! 🐝 This episode focuses on one of the most important decisions you'll make: where to place your hives. We dive into the key considerations for choosing the perfect hive location and share practical tips to avoid common mistakes. Whether you're a backyard beekeeper or managing a larger apiary, this episode has invaluable advice to set your bees up for success! 🌻🏡What’s Inside This Episode:Importance of hive placement and its impact on bee health and productivity.Factors to consider: sunlight, wind breaks, water sources, and neighbors.Common mistakes to avoid when selecting your hive's location.Real-world examples and practical tips to make the best decision.Why Listen to This Episode?Choosing the right spot for your hives is crucial for your beekeeping success. This episode offers step-by-step guidance and tips to help you make an informed choice. Learn how to optimize your hive’s location for the health and happiness of your bees.Support the Show:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping for Newbees is your ultimate guide to starting and thriving in the world of beekeeping. Packed with practical advice and personal stories, this podcast helps you make the most of your beekeeping journey.
--------
38:31
Episode 122 - Starting Beekeeping? Research These Laws First! 🐝⚖️
Before setting up your first hive, there are important rules and regulations to understand to avoid fines, complaints, or moving your bees. Beekeeping is an incredible journey, but it comes with responsibilities. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the research you need to conduct to ensure you’re starting the right way.What’s Inside This EpisodeUnderstanding Zoning Laws: Residential, rural, or urban restrictions.Hive Limits and Setbacks: How many hives you can keep and where they should go.Registration and Inspections: Requirements for registering hives and compliance checks.Liability and Neighbor Relations: Why keeping neighbors informed matters.Resources to Get Started: Where to find reliable legal and regulatory information.Why Listen to This Episode?This episode provides critical insights for aspiring beekeepers who want to ensure their hives are both legal and safe. With practical advice and easy-to-follow tips, this is your roadmap to staying on the right side of the law while nurturing a thriving apiary.Support the Show🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the PodcastBeekeeping for Newbees is your ultimate guide to starting and thriving in the world of beekeeping. Packed with practical advice and personal stories, this podcast helps you make the most of your beekeeping journey.
Welcome to Beekeeping For Newbees! This podcast is your ultimate resource for learning how to keep honeybees. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your knowledge, we cover everything you need to know: essential tools, hive components, seasonal tasks, and all the tricks of the trade to help you succeed. If you’re new to beekeeping, this is the perfect place to begin your journey." 🐝