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Setting up the apiary…
The decision on the apiary placement led to choosing a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Despite the rough condition, clearing and setting up the apiary took two days, with concern for dead trees. Moving the hives was challenging, but the result was satisfying, with a potential picnic spot.
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Decorating the hives…
The basics After the hives were completed, the exteriors were given 1 coat of primer and 2 coats of exterior white latex. This was done primarily for to help preserve the wood. It was a bit of work to make them and we wanted them to last for a long time. At this point, we…
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Time to build stands…
The author realizes it’s mid-February and hadn’t considered stands for hives. After finding simple plans at https://horizontalhive.com, they used cedar from Lowe’s to build them and found the process easy. This choice was made due to cedar’s durability and resistance to decay. The stands were quick to construct, making the project a success.
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Time to build swarm traps…
The content delves into the life cycle of a bee colony, including the purpose of swarming and the significance of a swarm trap. Bees collect pollen and nectar for winter survival, and the swarm trap provides temporary accommodation for bee colonies. The traps, constructed from wood, are designed to accommodate the colony’s needs.
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What resources do honeybees need…
The content discusses the basic needs of bees, including a place to breed and store resources, foraging resources, water, dryness, ventilation, warmth, calm air, and sun protection. The author addresses his ability to affect these needs, such as foraging resources like trees and wildflowers, as well as water sources. The importance of sun protection and…
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Introducing Yogi…
In August 2022, amidst the chaos of construction, a remarkable feline named Yogi emerged. Despite initial tensions with Kate, a large dog, a unique bond blossomed. Through patience and a motherly approach, Yogi and Kate formed an unexpected and heartwarming companionship, defying expectations and demonstrating the value of slowing down to embrace unforgettable moments.
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What about the top?
Types of tops There are two types of tops that we could use for the hives; one is a flat top and the other is peaked. Both of them are functional. The flat top is easier and costs less to make. My concern was that I would not be able to lift it off by…
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Back To Work…
Hive Construction If you are keeping up with dates, we are now up to the last two weeks of August, 2022. It was a very busy month. After enough frames were completed to at least get us started, it was time to start hive construction. I followed this plan as much as practical https://horizontalhive.com/how-to-build/best-beehive-stand.shtml. The…
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Break Time…
The Katy Trail Katy Trail State Park, is the longest developed rail-trail in the country. The park, built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT or Katy), is 240 miles long and runs between Clinton and Machens. Katy Trail is part of the American Discovery Trail, has been designated as a Millennium Legacy…
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Construction Begins…
A practitioner choosing a theory must apply it selectively to their unique situation, avoiding blind adherence. Embracing the Layens beekeeping method involved building hive components and overcoming tool challenges. Utilizing downloadable plans and innovative solutions, the process progressed, culminating in assembling the frames. The practical experience brought a sense of accomplishment.