EDUCATION

Most of us who have been beekeeping for a few years know what we don't know, and therefore know what we need to learn and study.  We have also found areas of interest that we want to further pursue.  For example, once we understand the basics, we may want to get into queen rearing, or build our own beekeeping equipment, or learn to sculpt masterpieces out of beeswax. 

 

But if you're new to this fascinating hobby there are a lot of basics to learn right upfront.  Whatever you do, don't just purchase a hive kit, a bee suit and sit down to a couple of YouTube videos.  Remember, half of what you see there is wrong... and you don't know which half!  Instead, enroll in a class, join a local club and find a mentor, read a couple of books and even listen to some Podcasts. 

 

Classes are great for both the newbees and more experienced beekeepers.  The best ones are in person in your local area.  You may find them through local clubs, beekeeping supply stores, or your state's extension service. There you can learn how to take care of bees in your climate and how to deal with common pests.  You can make friends with others who are learning and growing in beekeeping.  Online classes can be a more generic way to learn, but they still have value.  Here are a few:

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https://extension.psu.edu/beekeeping-101

https://www.perfectbee.com/academy-beekeeping-course

https://www.learningwithexperts.com/gardening/courses/introduction-to-natural-beekeeping

https://texasbeesupply.com/collections/classes/products/1082857

https://www.udemy.com/course/beekeeping-101/

https://www.udemy.com/course/beekeeping-an-introduction-for-aspiring-beekeepers/

https://www.honeybeesonline.com/online-beekeeping-academy/

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