Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. If you’re dreaming about keeping bees but don’t know where to start, this guide will walk you through everything I wish I had known before receiving my first hive.
Whether you’re curious, planning, or already suited up and sweating through your veil, this page will give you the confidence and clarity you need to begin your beekeeping journey.
🌼 Why Start Beekeeping?
People start beekeeping for all kinds of reasons — pollination, honey, curiosity, or simply because bees are magical little creatures. No matter your reason, beekeeping is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can take on.
This guide will help you start strong, avoid common mistakes, and understand what your first year will really look like.
🧰 1. What You Need to Start Beekeeping
Before you bring home bees, you’ll need a few essentials. Here’s the beginner‑friendly version — no fluff, no upsells, just what you actually need.
Basic Equipment
- A Langstroth hive
- Frames & foundation
- Smoker
- Hive tool
- Bee suit or jacket + gloves
- Feeder
- A hive stand or cinder blocks
Related:
👉 Why the Comfort Pro Jacket is the Best I’ve Ever Used
👉 The Best Jeans for Beekeeping
👉 Why Wearing a Suit Matters
How Much Does It Cost?
Most beginners spend $300–$800 depending on equipment choices and where they buy bees.
🗓️ 2. When & How to Start Your First Hive
Timing matters. Most new beekeepers start in spring, when bees are naturally building up and nectar is flowing.
Best Time of Year
- Order bees: winter
- Pick up bees: early spring
- Install bees: same day or next day
Related:
👉 Thinking About Getting Bees?
How Many Hives Should You Start With?
Two hives is ideal for beginners because it gives you a comparison point — but one hive is perfectly fine if you’re on a budget.
Where to Put Your Hive
Bees thrive when their hive is:
- In morning sun
- Sheltered from strong wind
- On level ground
- Away from foot traffic
- Close to water
Related:
👉 Best Beekeeping Approach
👉 Why Bees Sting
🐝 3. Understanding Your Bees
You don’t need to memorize every bee fact, but knowing the basics will make your first year much easier.
The Three Types of Bees
- Queen: The mother of the hive
- Workers: Female bees who do… everything
- Drones: Male bees whose main job is mating
What a Healthy Hive Looks Like
- Steady brood pattern
- Calm behavior
- Pollen coming in
- Queen present and laying
Related:
👉 Recognize a Queenless Colony Before It’s Too Late
👉 How to Prevent Robbing
🔍 4. Your First Year of Beekeeping (What to Expect)
Your first year is all about learning the rhythm of the hive.
Spring
- Install bees
- Feed sugar syrup
- Weekly inspections
Related:
👉 My Apiary Today
Summer
- Add supers
- Watch for swarming
- Manage pests
Related:
👉 Beekeeping During Heat Waves
👉 Keeping Your Bees While on Vacation
Fall
- Reduce space
- Treat for mites
- Ensure enough honey stores
Winter
- Minimal disturbance
- Check food stores
- Prepare for spring
Related:
👉 Winter Beekeeping Education
Full guide:
👉 Beginner Beekeeping Mistakes
❌ 5. Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Every beekeeper makes mistakes — but you can skip the big ones.
Common pitfalls:
- Not inspecting often enough
- Over‑inspecting
- Feeding too little or too late
- Not treating for mites
- Starting with too little equipment
Related:
👉 Beginner Beekeeping Mistakes
👉 Step-by-Step Guide on First Hive Inspection
👉 Why Bees Sting
👉 How to Prevent Robbing
🧭 6. Your Next Steps
Now that you’ve got the basics, here’s where to go next:
Learn Hive Management
👉 Step-by- Step Guide to First Hive Inspection
👉 An Even Simpler Way to Make Splits
👉 Best Beekeeping Approach
Learn Bee Health
👉 Recognize a Queenless Colony Before It’s Too Late
👉 Learn How to Prevent Robbing
Learn Honey Harvesting
Community, Stories & Support
👉 My Beekeeping Journey
👉 Dad Gives Daughter a Beehive
👉 Unique Challenges Women Beekeepers Face
👉 Honey Bee Humor
👉 Helpful Resources
This page is your home base — bookmark it and revisit it as you grow as a beekeeper.