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Accessibility Small spaces work well, but ease of access is imperative. Vehicle or cart access works best.
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Finding a Place for Your Bees
Finding the right spot for your apiary is a critical early decision. Once placed, hives are difficult to move. Many factors point to the right place.
Four Primary Factors to Consider in Apiary
Placement1. Accessibility
2. Sunny, dry ground
3. Protection from Wind and Animals
4. Isolated from view
Accessibility
• Small spaces work well, but ease of access is imperative.
• Vehicle or cart access works best.
Sunny & Dry Ground• An apiary must
be placed on dry, well-drained ground.
• THE MORE SUN, THE BETTER !
• Access to water nearby is
important.
Wind Protection• Wind protection,
esp. from westerly winter winds.
Protection from Animals• Fences
may be needed to protect hives from bear.
Isolated from viewDo you really want your neighbors seeing you looking like this?
One thing not to sweat… …the plants living nearby.
Bees commonly forage 3+ miles from their hives.
3 miles = 18,093 acres
.
Other Thoughts on Apiary Site Selection
Directional attitudeHives should face
EAST to SOUTH
WindbreakNorth to Northwest sideMaintain accessibility
Air flowHelps ventilation of
the colony
AVOID DAMP, SHADED SPOTS .
Water sourceNeeds to be
consistentProvide vs. neighbor’s
poolThey love muck.
Vehicle AccessEase of care vs.
harassmentDownhill vs. uphill
SunFull sun preferredKeep vegetation down
Not nearConfined animalsSidewalks .
Selecting the Worst Apiary Site
Low area – cold
Poor air flow
Difficult access, requiring long carries up hill
Hives in full shade
Large animal access
.