BEEKEEPING MADE EASY:

Six ways to a sweeter li fe.

B

eekeeper and hive- removal

specialist Kelly Owen says anyone with an interest in bees can become a hobbyist beekeeper. You may know that bee activity is essential to the global agricultural industry, and without these critical pollinators, much of the food humans eat just wouldn’t exist. Bee populations are also under threat in many places, including here in South Africa, mostly due to bacterial diseases such as American foulbrood, as well as mites, fungi and the general destruction of their foraging habitat. Sustaining your own colony is a rewarding way to stay aware of the natural rhythms of your area and contribute to the health of this important species. And, of course, there’s the flow of fresh, pure honey to sweeten the deal.

There are a number of important things to consider when becoming a beekeeper. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get started.