Bees

[treekidsandadog]

So I'm looking to order our bees (1st time ever having a hive) and was looking for input on where to order from and what types you like...We live in the upper peninsula of Michigan so would need something cold hardy...any help would be greatly appreciated...

[Chicky2]

I live in Texas, so big difference in climate.  We looked around for area beekeepers and ended up befriending an old timer.  He's 89 and has been a keeper of the bees for over 50 years.  We got our first 2 colonies plus hives from him.  We attend a local beekeepers meeting once a month.  I would look for something like that in your area.  Also, shipping on hives is really outrageous.  I just managed to score 5 hive bodies plus frames for FREE.  A man had them sitting in an airplane hanger along w/70 more I wish I could get my hands on but I'll not be greedy, lol.  Saved us $500!  There are also usually people you can find locally who make hives.  Maybe those same people will sell colonies of bees if they have them.

Just things to look for.  HTH.

[redhotmama]

We are in Houghton and keep bees successfully.  You can order nucs from a man in Bruce Crossings ( he recommends Italians) and Brushy mountain bee supply is a great resource.  Beekeeping for dummies is our favorite book...

[GardenStream]

Originally Posted by redhotmama 

We are in Houghton and keep bees successfully.  You can order nucs from a man in Bruce Crossings ( he recommends Italians) and Brushy mountain bee supply is a great resource.  Beekeeping for dummies is our favorite book...

We attended our first beekeeping seminar on Saturday. There were over 900 people there and a ton of vendors. The one thing they kept stressing was how important it was to get in with your local beekeeping club because they would have the best advice on how to keep bees in your area.

I also heard more than once that Beekeeping for Dummies was a great book.

I've already ordered my bees and have the top bar hive waiting for them. I can't wait!