Beekeeping I: Bees, Hives & Honey

With Alex DeCesaro

Learn the fundamentals of beekeeping and take the first step toward starting your own backyard apiary. This course introduces the fascinating world of the honeybee, from the biology of the colony, to the essentials of hive management. We’ll guide you through everything you need to know to get started with confidence, with an emphasis on bee centric principles. You'll leave with a solid foundation to manage your own hive and a deeper appreciation for these vital pollinators. Join this supportive beginner-friendly workshop, expand your handy DIY skillset, and connect with a community of fellow makers!

Skills & Concepts You’ll Learn:

• Understanding honeybee biology and the three bee castes 

• How a honeybee colony functions as a “superorganism”

• How to inspect a hive and “read” the comb for colony health, brood patterns, and honey stores

• Comparing different hive styles to choose the right one for you

• Seasonal hive management essentials

• Basics of honey harvesting and extraction

• Understanding common pests and diseases

• Sourcing bees and essential beekeeping equipment

Class Outline:

1. Introduction: Honeybee biology, the colony life cycle, and communication

2. Hives & Equipment: Overview of hive types, essential tools, and how to get started

3. Hive Management: Inspecting frames, seasonal beekeeping tasks, and swarming basics

4. Harvest & Health: Introduction to honey harvesting, identifying common health issues, and Q&A

Other Class Details:

• Prerequisites: None. No Experience Required.

• Class Capacity: 12 maximum, 5 minimum

• Materials Provided?: Yes

• Age Limit: All Ages

• Partner Ticket Available?: No

• Available for a Private Class?: Yes (info)

• Clothing/Equipment Requirements?: None