How to Begin Beekeeping and Find Gratitude amidst Disaster

Valuable Notes from a Novice at the end of Year Zero

Author’s Note: last week I announced that I would begin writing two essays a week. The first would be abstract, gleaning inspiration from the natural world, family, and tradition. These are free for everyone. The second would be tangible, focused on hard skills, lessons, and stories from our little homestead, meadow, and forest. This is the first of the latter type, which I categorize as Reports from the High Wood. In many ways, these essays will serve to show paid supporters what and who they are actually supporting. Earlier this week I encouraged my readers to make something and now with this essay, I walk them through how to actually do it.

Last year my wife and I decided to continue the family tradition of beekeeping. The essay linked serves as a journal of the first month, but I am so often asked if I have any tips or even a guide for the person thinking about beginning beekeeping. The essay below is the answer to that request. I am not an expert beekeeper. I am very much a novice. However, as we end our first year and prepare to expand our apiary by ten hives in May, I am reflecting on what went well and how we endured in the face of total disaster this past year. Enjoy.

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