Beekeeping at FiveApple

Ep156 Spring in the 🐝 bees!

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:58:53 -0400

Today it's a ramble through things going on in the bee yard as Spring has taken over and the bees won't wait! Doing some quick splits to save the day, still aiming for more data-driven stock selection and whose swarm is this in my equipment?

Ep155 Tina Sebestyen Interview: Miller Method & More

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:45:31 -0400

I ask Tina about the Miller (graftless) method of Queen rearing and her recent articles in ABJ, then we wander into chat between bee friends of goings on in our apiaries, things we want to try this year and more. Enjoy!

-Leigh

Supporting Patrons, view your exclusive show notes here.

Patron exclusive detailed show notes include:

What is the Miller Method?
More info and how-to from Tina’s on the Miller method
Article on the Miller Method with illustrations of the special comb cuts.
Handy queen calculator where you fill in the date you graft (or remove the queen in a frame-based split) and it fills in the critical dates such as the cell being ripe and able to be moved to another hive (day 10), when to check back for eggs, etc
Videos from Tina’s Four Corners Bee Association on splits and other topics
Link to Tina’s ABJ article on the Demaree method of swarm management.
(You will need an ABJ subscription to access that article. The subscription gets you access to years of archived issues so it’s a real reference resource!) Not an ABJ subscriber? Subscription info here: https://americanbeejournal.com/subscribers/orderrenew-subscription/
Five Apple’s podcast on the Reverse Doolittle split on Patreon, with links to Tina’s how-to article as well as my own silly drawings of the process.
Queen Breeders we mentioned in the show and their links:
Cory Stevens (MO)
Sourwood Farms (VA)
Hall Apiaries (NH)

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Ep154 Swarm prevention & tips from Greg Rogers

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:17:19 -0400

Today I share some great tips shared by Greg Rogers of Haw Creek Honey when he presented to our local club. Then we work through swarm prevention strategies (starts at 16:25) that are especially important when it's too early in the season to make splits due to drone availability.

Patrons, you will find your exclusive detailed show notes here.

Today's notes include:

Greg's favorite YouTube channels
links about the Demaree method (that AI gets so wrong!)
image of how to tip a box up to look for swarm cells
a how-to section on opening the broodnest (or spreading the brood as Greg calls it)
a link to my master handout of favorite SPLITS METHODS that I give to bee clubs when I present on that topic
ENJOY! And thank you so much for keeping this podcast going through your support.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep153 Interview with James Lee of SBGMI

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Today I interview James Lee, president of the Sustainable Beekeepers Guild of Michigan about the goals and offerings of this important virtual education hub for beekeepers interested in increasing the genetic work towards reducing the need for treatments in hives. We talk about his work in creating the Northern Queen Initiative to provide locally raised Northern adapted queens as well as his own apiary and management techniques which you can follow on his YouTube channel James Lee's Bees.

We mention the Harbo Assay, a well-documented but labor intensive way to 'grade' queens on their expression of varroa sensitive hygiene as a way to guide stock selection. SGBMI even offers a course you can take to learn to do it. Or you can read about it from this publication from Penn State.

I hope you enjoy this interview! Leigh

------------------------------

This episode is free and available to everyone....and your support really makes a difference. You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor and mite/disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 152: Knowing Bee Biology Makes Better Beekeepers

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 08:43:04 -0500

This is a hefty episode that reviews some of the many, many ways knowing bee biology will directly affect the decisions you have to make as a beekeeper in every season of beekeeping. It's long because it affects nearly everything and this is just a sampling! Beginners: take the details you need and just roll with the stuff that you haven't learned yet, but please note how important learning all that bee life cycle stuff turns out to be! Experienced beekeepers: I hope this will inspire you to emphasize bee biology to your mentees as the framework they can build their beekeeping upon.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 151 If you lost bees this winter: figuring it out and going forward

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

It's that time of year as beekeepers that we find out how we did — how we did all the way back to the summer before. Some years it can be a tough report-card to get! As all things in bees there are many ways to understand what happened. The good news even if it was a bad year is this: we can do better in the coming season. In this episode I encourage you to do just that, while also acknowledging its really really hard to lose any of our colonies. But there's no way to be a beekeeper without losing hives sooner or later. If we truly learn from the losses, it can turn into beekeeping skills that help keep more colonies alive.

Things mentioned in the episode:

Ep 150: Lifecycle of the Bees (and beekeeper) - a storytelling of the yearly cycle the bees circle through and how the beekeeper interacts. Please share with friends and family who want to understand what you and your bees are doing as well as with new beekeepers who need this grounding to start learning about bees.

Ep 149: Starting with a Nucleus Colony, for Newbees A guide with tips for someone starting for the first time (or starting again) with Nucleus colonies. Supporting Patrons have access to an 11 page PDF with more content and hints on how to give your nuc the best start. Note: you may need to log into Patreon so the PDF attachment will show at the bottom of the post.

The New Hampshire Dead Out Checklist: Even if you don't live in NH, this checklist is VERY thorough on the kind of info you can collect from your deadout. It's a great model imo for other clubs to track what their members are seeing in lost hives to see if there are patterns.

Maine Beekeepers share this article on things to look for in an autopsy.

Once you have gathered info from these checklists, it's a great time to discuss with your mentor or with an experienced and successful* beekeeper at your next club meeting.

*in this case, I mean successful at reliably keeping their bees alive over winter

Wishing you all the very best, no matter what you found or find in your bee yard coming out of winter. No matter what, if you love working with bees: Don't quit!! As a speaker told our group one time: FAIL stands for First Attempt in Learning. Hang in there!

A special thanks to all the supporting patrons who keep this podcast going!! And thanks to all of you who take the time to share the podcast with your beekeeping friends and associations. If you would like to support this podcast (as well as get bonus content) please join us at Patreon.com/fiveapple

kind regards, Leigh

Ep 150: Lifecycle of the Bees (and the beekeeper) for Newbees

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:07:00 -0500

Ep 150: Lifecycle of the Bees (and the beekeeper) for Newbees

So this is a version of the talk I'm giving at my local club's bee school this year, telling the story of the bees' yearly cycle. There's nothing else more important to learn as a basis for beekeeping imo. Because whenever we enter the hive, it only makes sense if we understand what the bees are already doing in that season of their cycle. We match our actions to their pattern. Give it a listen and let me know what you think!

kind regards,

Leigh

PS: Supporting patrons, the thick PDF I made you all last week with tips and suggestions for starting with Nucs is posted at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/149455905 Download and feel free to share with your bee club or newbees who buy your nucs.

Ep 149: Starting with a Nucleus Colony, for Newbees

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:08:28 -0500

A full overview for beginners of starting with your first nucleus colony. Things to know, things to learn, things to watch out for. Experienced beekeepers: I've asked for your help in creating a TIP SHEET to share with the patrons of this show on starting with nucs. Send me your best tips and I'll include them on the pdf I'm creating for new beekeepers. It will be available *next week* on the patreon post for this episode to assist new beekeepers and to be available for experienced beekeepers to share with their mentees.

Want to add your advice to the TIP SHEET? Email me at fiveapple [dot] bees [at] gmail [dot] com or send me a DM here on Patreon anytime! Please tell me where you are writing from too.

Wishing you all a wonderful week!

Leigh

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 148 January for the Beekeeper

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:31:35 -0500

But of course there's beekeeping stuff you can do in winter! :-) Listen in to get ideas about what tasks need doing (check in on your bees food stores!) as well as thought on how to get ahead for the upcoming bee season. Along the way: an idea for setting up a 'learning nuc' and thoughts on record keeping, bee school and more.

This is the video I mention:

https://youtu.be/BEqikrm9PRY?si=ag51ZJt2fVJsYfMU

THANK YOU PATRONS

for keeping this podcast going and keeping it commercial free!

kind regards,

Leigh

Not a Patron yet and want to keep this podcast going commercial-free with a few bucks a month? Please join us by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Ep 147: Gifts of the bees and the beekeepers

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 12:30:08 -0500

The gifts we get from spending time with the bees, learning about the bees and learning from other beekeepers are so amazing. This episode is a reflection on just some of the beauties and realizations that come with beekeeping in good years and even in not so good beekeeping years. I'd love to hear what gifts you got from your bees this year.

It's the last episode of 2025 and already I look forward to meeting you back here in 2026! I'm sending a shout out and a big appreciative hug to each and ever Patron for making this podcast a reality and for each and every listener who is the reason it exists. I thank you all. kind regards, Leigh

If you are not yet a supporting patron, you are warmly invited to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

https://www.patreon.com/c/fiveapple/membership

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 146: Radio Reader: The Bees Winter Nest

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:07:00 -0500

What makes a perfect winter home for 60,000 bees? This episode explores Dr. James Tew's look at the architecture of the winter bee nest. You'll discover what scout bees look for when house hunting, what propolis really does, and why the entire colony functions as a single super-organism.

A Radio-reader edition of The Honey Bee's Winter Nest" by Dr. James E. Tew, Bee Culture magazine, October 2023. Read with permission of Bee Culture Magazine. Get a subscription to have access to years of archives as well as a new magazine monthly. Subscribe at: https://beeculture.com/

kind regards, Leigh

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep145 Organic? Treatment-Free? Chemical-Free? Natural Beekeeping Terms Explained in this great article

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 20:44:49 -0500

Ep145 Organic? Treatment-Free? Chemical-Free? Natural Beekeeping Terms Explained in this ABJ article

Ever get confused by all the "natural beekeeping" terms floating around? In this episode I'm discussing an article (Oct 2023 ABJ) that breaks down three approaches that sound similar but are actually pretty different: organic beekeeping, treatment-free beekeeping, and chemical-free beekeeping. They're NOT interchangeable, and understanding the differences might change how you think about managing your hives.

Whether you're curious about going more natural with your bees or you just want to know what other beekeepers are talking about when they describe their approach. Handy for new beekeepers trying to figure out their philosophy and seasoned beeks who want to geek out on the fine print of management styles.

Article used with permission of American Bee Journal. Want to say thanks to ABJ for allowing these episodes from their archives? Grab a subscription and get access to years and years of bee magazines! One year digital only, with archive access: 21.00. One year print (with access to the archives)

Links I mentioned I'd share with everyone—It's Thanksgiving after all!

If for any reason these links don't work in your podcast app, you can view them in your web browser here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/144457183
Free At Home Beekeeping Series from Alabama Extension
Direct link to Julia Mahood's presentation on recordkeeping (available only til Dec 2 it says) on the Alabama Extension Facebook page.
SBGMI Virtual Winter Conference 2026
Certified Naturally Grown apiary standards in handbook form : Whether or not you get certified, this is a top notch collection of 'best practices' imo.
Ran across this just today! "Get 40% off a year long subscription to BEE CULTURE MAGAZINE" (limited time offer; this is their fine print below)

Valid on online orders only through https://simplecirc.com/subscribe/bee-culture Once on this page, click the 1-Year Print Only Option. Then click the 'Apply Promo Code' (BLUE line of text on the right hand side of screen.) Next, enter code SOC40 and click 'Apply code'. Valid 6PM EST November 26 through 11:59PM December 1, 2025. For U.S. subscriptions only. New subscriptions will begin with the February 2026 issue.
If you want to get links like those every time I release an episode, join as a patron!

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments
Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos
Occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes
Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions
Input on the podcast topics
Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 144 November surprise in the bee yard :-(

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:17:25 -0500

Some surprise late autumn deadouts in the yard, something I've never experienced before in summer or fall. I break down the likely reasons and what I plan to do different next year. Also, happier seasonal updates around the bee yard about the other hives going into winter.

kind regards to you all!

Leigh

Patrons: if you are listening here on the public channel, remember to check out the detailed show notes, links and occasional videos that are a small thank you for supporting this podcast. Today's episode link is: https://www.patreon.com/posts/143437965

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Not a supporting patron yet? You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments

• Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos

• occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes

• Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions

• Input on the podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at FiveApple:

Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 143: Tips for Winter Prep

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 12:11:02 -0400

Today's episode is an overview and discussion of prepping hives for winter. For supporting Patrons, I've also made a checklist (and printable PDF) as well as compiled several links for more info on the issues and the methods. Not a supporting patron yet? Please join us below!

kind regards, Leigh

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments

• Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos

• occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes

• Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions

• Input on the podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at Five Apple:

Ep 142 Bee Amazement: the discoveries of Karl von Frisch

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:10:10 -0400

Some days you just need some amazement and that's what I found in learning about what researcher Karl von Frisch demonstrated in the first half of the 1900s about how bees see, how they navigate (!) , and what they are telling each other (!!) with the dances they do. Equally fascinating is how he managed to design experiments to confirm and prove it all! Hope you enjoy as much as I do!

Patrons: Detailed show notes with links to more information on all the topics will be available to you this weekend—a way to say thank you to the group of you who support this podcast to keep it on the air and advertisement free! Just check out this link on Sunday afternoon and I will have your links added:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/141368230

kind regards,

Leigh

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Not a patron yet? You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible, who keep the archives available and who keep it all advertising-free.

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for fifteen years. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 141 Bees & Big Ag from Michael Palmer's view

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:47:08 -0400

Today's episode starts with a rambling overview of how things are around here in the beeyard from hive beetles to one year mark from the WNC floods. Then a discussion of a YouTube interview with the legendary Vermont beekeeper for 50 years, Michael Palmer who says being "near row crops" is seriously hurting his beekeeping in a severe new way. Then a related article I happened to find on how neonics make varroa destructor much more destructive. I encourage you to listen to the two part video interview presented by Inside The Hive TV, a YouTube channel with some very interesting interviews.

Links to the material discussed:

Part One of the YouTube featured on the Inside the Hive TV channel. Part Two is here. Part Three is just a short about Palmer talking about the book he is still trying to write. And OH I hope he does!

Here's the article I quote from in Entomology Today.

Keep heart dear beekeepers. Keep on keeping on.

–Leigh

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 140 Vitamin C for bees??

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:46:48 -0400

In today's podcast, how a backyard experiment led me to find a bunch of research to back up that Vit C added to bee syrup can make a difference for bee health! Plus what's up in the bee yard, wonderful email from listeners, and the usual wandering tangents that somehow all relate to bees! kind regards, Leigh

PS. Patrons: watch for your exclusive post this weekend with extensive links on the research and other fascinating info I've found on feeding of late.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 139 Pollen! A deeper dive

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:56:46 -0400

Hope you enjoy this podcast geek out on pollen and its uses in the hive and how critical it is to the colony's success.

Patrons: If you have any portions you would enjoy knowing more about, just let me know and I'll share the links to the sites and presentations I used to research this episode!

Wishing you all a beautiful Fall season, a generous fall nectar and pollen flow in your area, and fat bees being raised for winter!

kind regards, Leigh

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 138: The Bear Story & BONUS audio bookmark for Patrons

Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:05:22 -0400

Today I'll tell you the unfortunate bear story and how the hives are doing...then, the full episode continues on Patreon with the bonus audio I've promised patrons: an explainer on how the age distribution in a colony (the topic of the last ABJ article I read to you) impacts your beekeeping and the health of the hive, including some important August tasks in the bee yard as a result. It's a way I say thank you to the Patrons, whose support keeps this podcast going!

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 137 August Tips

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 15:47:42 -0400

It's my least favorite month of beekeeping, August, aka Grumpy Bee Month. Here are some tips to help you and the bees get through it the best we all can. Kind regards to you all and patrons, you keep this all going: Thank you! --Leigh

Not a patron yet? You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 136 Post-conference ramble

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:12:18 -0400

Ep 136 Post-conference ramble

A few thoughts after a day of the NC State Beekeepers Association summer conference day last Saturday / Back Care Tips / Details of the why and how of feeding in summer-dearth or to get comb drawn out / and general bee ramblings!

Are you looking for the notes on the presentation I gave at the conference on "Smart Splitting?" If so please email me! Email is fiveapple [dot] bees [at] gmail.com

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 135 Bee Radio Reader: Division of Labor in a Colony, part 2 (ABJ March 2024)

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 20:51:54 -0400

Part 2 of a radio-reader episode of Kayla deJong's March 2024 article on the division of labor in a colony. It's fascinating to remember the many roles the bees move through in a lifetime!

If you are a subscriber to American Bee Journal you can read the article in the digital archives : https://americanbeejournal.com/

If you are not a subscriber then here's your chance! Enter you special number in the comments on this Patreon post (details in the episode. :-) Free and open to everyone, not just patrons.

I appreciate each and every one of you patrons and listeners,

Leigh

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 134 Bee Radio Reader: Division of Labor in a Colony, part 1 (ABJ March 2024)

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 20:49:39 -0400

A radio-reader episode of Kayla deJong's article in American Bee Journal March 2024 on the division of labor in a colony. It's fascinating to remember the many roles the bees move through in a lifetime! This is part one of two.

If you are a subscriber to American Bee Journal you can read the article in the digital archives : https://americanbeejournal.com/

If you are not a subscriber then here's your chance! Enter you special number on this free page (details in episode) over on Patreon.

I appreciate each and every one of you patrons and listeners,

Leigh

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 133 Queen Excluders: the good the bad etc

Sat, 24 May 2025 17:51:26 -0400

Ep 133 Queen Excluders: the good the bad etc--

A wonderful patron asked that I talk about the pros and cons of using queen excluders so that is the subject of today's episode. Detailed show notes (all the resources I used to prepare today's episode) are available for patrons for further exploration of the MANY opinions on this piece of equipment.

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • occasional bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 132: Keeping Records & Letter about Layens Hives

Thu, 08 May 2025 12:59:12 -0400

Springtime greetings to you all! Part one of today's episode is a chat on the evolution of how I keep records in my own apiary, in hopes there may be helpful ideas for your own. Then part two is a wonderful letter about experiences with Layens Hive beekeeping from listener William along with some of the great gadgets he has developed for working with them.

Today's patreon page is FREE and open to everyone so you can all see the photos he shared. Here's the link:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/ep-132-keeping-128457959

Thank you SO much William for taking the time to share your experience and the photos. Your observations are important for folks to consider who are thinking of going Layens. Plus, the gadgets you have problem-solved with are excellent!

Thank you to every Patron and listener who support the podcast! If there are topics you have been wondering about and would like me to explore, please reply on the Patreon post! Hope you have a wonderful week! --Leigh

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep. 131 The best for last: Reverse Doolittle Split (and Split Dynamics review)

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:45:09 -0400

This episodes concludes the series on splits, with the best saved for last: The Reverse Doolittle, aka The Cutdown. (Best for intermediate beekeepers. ) Also, a review of split dynamics for beginners.

Exclusive for patrons on the Patreon post are links for the how-to, drawing of the whole process, and the complete handout for the splits talk I gave to a few bee clubs on this topic: https://www.patreon.com/posts/ep-131-best-for-127402747

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 130: Spring Nuc Split, Quiet Box, Doolittle Box

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:02:39 -0400

Talking today about the handy and easy Nuc (or Retirement Nuc) split; using a quiet box; making and using a Doolittle Box....with a printable PDFs on making a Nucleus Split and a Doolittle box exclusively for patrons on the Five Apple Patreon Post

Ep 129: Swarm prevention tips

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 17:11:19 -0400

With some swarm prevention skills, you can better time your splits! Patrons, the printable of the notes/links on this episode can be downloaded on the Patreon post. Thank you all for your support! Leigh

Ep 128 10-Frame vs 8-Frame...and/or all mediums

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 06:38:00 -0400

Patron "Show Me Bees" from Missouri asked that I talk about the ins and outs of running all 8-frame mediums. So in today's episode I do. :-)

Ep 127 Rescued by Bee Friends!

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 11:47:12 -0500

Telling the recent story of how my apiary was saved by bee friends after a tree fell right over the middle of it. Ed and Jim, you saved the day. Plus a reminder to keep an eye on your hive's stores as we start getting more warm days.

Photos of the rescue (open to everyone) at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/123119994

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • bonus podcasts and early access episodes • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep126 Propolis!

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 20:46:08 -0500

A couple things the bees do with propolis I forgot to mention in the episode: embalming hive intruders, fencing in hive beetles! Bee caulk is amazing. Links collected over at Patreon on the post:

The first video I watched on the unexpected winter losses among commercial beekeepers in the US by Dr Humberto Boncristiani of Inside the Hive TV.
More on the losses from The Bee Supply channel.
GA Master Craftsman Beekeeper Cindy Hodges' excellent presentation on Propolis.
Dr. Marla Spivak's presentation on her research on propolis. An interview with her on propolis in general.
Ian Steppler on selecting for high propolis bees.

Do you have any favorite uses for propolis?

Wishing you a wonderful week Patrons and Listeners! I sure appreciate all of you!

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 125 Starting with packages

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 21:57:38 -0500

Tips and thoughts on starting with packages for the first time, or starting again after winter loss. Patron exclusive links over at patreon.com/fiveapple

Kamon Reynolds showing both ways to install on YouTube. I thought this was an excellent overview.
A non-video tutorial from NC extension -- showing the "shake them out" method...the one you will need to use if the weather is poor or chilly.
Rusty Ballew showing the walk-out install method. Her site is always a reliable source of info!
Dadant's How-to tutorial on installing.
Michael Bush's list of installation mistakes to avoid. He recommends direct queen release..somewhat more risky, use at your own risk tho clearly many people do this.
The synthetic comb I mentioned

You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 124 Better (than caging) Brood Breaks

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 07:07:00 -0500

Ep 124 Better (than caging) Brood Breaks

Diving into why there are better options (imo) than caging a queen to create a brood break for mite reduction. Exclusive show notes and links to the things mentioned in this episode are available for patrons over at Patreon.

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 123 Welcome to 2025!

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 08:03:52 -0500

Some reflection on the past year's bee season and things I'd like to continue with (and get better at) in the new season to come. Show notes for patrons with links for stuff mentioned in this episode are over in the Patreon post for this episode: Layens hives, Queen Castles, Long Langs, fave beekeeper YouTubers.

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts (and DMs) allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 122: New Insulation Setup and The "Condensing Hive"

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:20:18 -0500

A deeper dive into the why and how of the insulation setup I started using several years ago, the condensing-hive concept. For the patrons, find the links to everything mentioned in the show, and the video I made for you, over at Patreon.com/fiveapple Thanks to all the listeners and wishing you a good overwintering of your bees! Leigh

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Late Fall...and Large NC disaster (Ep 121)

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:05:00 -0500

The first portion is about bees and the ups and downs of Fall care. Then in a change of subject, I want to tell you about what happened in my little section of Western NC in the floods of Hurricane Helene...as well as try to help get you thinking about your own disaster preparedness. I'm grateful to all of you and want you to be prepared for the when-not-if of weather disasters in your region.

And WELCOME new patrons Leslie and Robert! I appreciate you so much.

Late Fall...and Large NC disaster (Ep 121)

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Fall prep list (120)

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:52:08 -0400

Fall prep list (120) How can it be September already?!? In this episode I go through my own fall prep list and considerations.

WELCOME new patrons Sam, Phil, Taylor and Missy! Thank you so much for joining us and keeping this podcast free of advertising.

Thank you so much for listening, sharing and leaving a good review if you are enjoying the episodes. Leigh

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina (gardening zone 6b). She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Loads of info! Part 2 Troy Hall of Hall Apiaries (119)

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 15:01:40 -0400

In the second part of the interview, Troy talks about his late summer/fall management strategy as well as how he manages to overwinter nucs (a core part of his operation as it is to mine) in New Hampshire winters. He also gives me some great tips on how to make winter feeding of those nucs easier in my apiary. Troy also talks about the benefits of raising and selling overwintered nucs as a premium type of nuc due to colony cohesion, something I've noticed as well.

If you are enjoying Beekeeping at Five Apple, please share the podcast with your bee friends, bee clubs and your online networks! I appreciate it so much. :-) Leigh

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Troy Hall of Hall Apiaries Interview part 1, Ep 118

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 21:30:41 -0400

Today's episode is part one of a rambling bee chat I had with full-time beekeeper Troy Hall of New Hampshire back in the Spring. At Hall Apiaries he produces honey, queens and nucs in a creative, stationary operation of 700ish hives primarily managed without treatments. What a delightful and inspiring person and beekeeper! Hope you enjoy it.

Show Note Links:

Hall Apiaries Website

https://nhbeekeeper.com

I got to hear Troy's presentation in the 2024 Winter Conference of SBGMI. I love it that they offer their conferences online so that folks from everywhere can partake! If you join for $20 you can watch their past conferences. They also offer discounts on bee magazine subs and much more. Please check them out:

Sustainable Beekeepers Guild of Michigan

https://sbgmi.org/

If you are enjoying Beekeeping at Five Apple, please share the podcast with your bee friends, bee clubs and your online networks! I appreciate it so much. :-) Leigh

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You are warmly invited to become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon to join the folks who make the podcasts possible and keep it advertising-free. In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Tips for keeping bees cool, Solstice Queens, Split Comparisons & Patron bonus bookmark (117)

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 13:59:00 -0400

Tips for keeping bees cool, Solstice Queens, Split Comparisons & Patron bonus bookmark (117)

Part 1: Ways to cool off hives, benefits of post-solstice queens .

Part 2: continues for patrons with bonus content on comparing the Runaway and the Cut-Down/Reverse Doolittle splits, more about post-solstice queens, detailed show notes with links to some helpful videos.

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Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allows me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Reverse Doolittle Split - TS's method (117)

Mon, 27 May 2024 16:58:32 -0400

A bee-radio-reader episode with Tina Sebestyen's how to overview of a Reverse Doolittle Split which, spoiler alert, is the same as a Cut-Down Split! But Tina explains it so much better than I have!

This episode released last week with detailed show notes for the Patreon supporters. Thank you patrons for keeping this podcast rolling!

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Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allow me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Runaway Splits (Episode 116)

Fri, 03 May 2024 10:47:46 -0400

Detailed show note (usually a Patreon exclusive but wanted everyone to get the links below):

There is hardly a split that is as easy and that yields the reliable results as the Runaway split we all have learned from Ang Roell and Sam Comfort. Remember it when you just need to get it done!

This is their description of the process from their SARE grant description:

"....Move the hive to a new position in the yard. (It can be close to the original spot, i.e. on the same pallet, but with the entrance facing a new direction.)

Set up a new, empty, similar box where it was.
Move back one NEWER comb of MOSTLY OPEN BROOD with adhering bees and one comb of food (nectar/pollen) with adhering bees. If the queen is seen, leave her in the new position (or remove her for use elsewhere). Replace the combs with foundation or empty bars. Put the brood and food with bees in the new box (away from the entrance), place in foundation or empty bars, cover with a lid, and you’re done. The field bees will join this queenless hive and help build a new brood nest.
Check the hive in 4 weeks for eggs, larvae, and the first capped brood from the new queen. If no eggs are present, or if laying workers are laying multiple eggs per cell, the hive can be shaken out or combined with a different split at no loss.

NOTE: You do not need to find the queen, but if you see her during the splitting process, she can be caged and used elsewhere, so that both sides raise a queen and experience a break in brood rearing. Or she can remain in the moved portion to be split again later or the hive expanded for honey production. (Note that continuous brood rearing also can build large populations of Varroa mites.) (Source: https://projects.sare.org/project-reports/fne20-964/)

Leigh again here. You may notice the things I do different are:

1. Putting drawn comb in the new box at the original location so that the field force might collect honey while they are waiting for their larval queen to grow up and go on her mating flight. For three weeks they will have no brood to care for and the could spend that time collecting nectar if you have a flow. On the other hand, their method could yield a lot of nice new comb. I haven't tried it with all foundation.

2. I shake in some additional nurse bees to the hive bodies at the original site....just because I'm like that. Ha! I also put more garlic than called for in most any cooking recipe. ;-) Ang and Sam's recipe places the brood frame WITH clinging bees but I know some beginners would be nervous about moving the queen so I gave an alternative nurse bee transfer method. Either way is good as long as there are nurse bees in there.

Finally, the link to their PDF handout is here and it has the conclusions of their study as well as the split instructions. The illustration is using the top bars and a Comfort hive but the process is the same no matter what kind of hive you use.

https://projects.sare.org/wp-content/uploads/ComparingQueenRearingMethods_FactSheet.pdf

Thank you all so much for listening and for all you do for the bees.

Leigh

----

Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Detailed show notes with links, tips, comments • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Commenting on posts or messaging allow me to answer questions • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 115 - Early March

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 16:44:44 -0400

(recorded the first few days of March 2024)

There was a tech glitch (what happens if you don't do updates regular on the old computer OS...ha) and I couldn't edit this one like usual so it's both late and rough cut, with an even rougher addendum pasted in! But wanted to put it up for everyone. Next episode starts my usual obsession with splits!

Links mentioned in this episode… (new Patreon exclusive for supporters!)

Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

What? But, why?? Thoughts on a podcast (Bookmark)

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:19:30 -0500

So as I mentioned last time, there was an episode on another podcast I eagerly played because I'm fascinated with the topic, only to be disappointed at the angle they took on some things, and in outright (friendly) disagreement on other points. Just a random ramble of thoughts and reflections for the patrons who keep this podcast going. Huge appreciation to you all! Leigh (episode continues for Patrons)

-- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments for over a decade. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Welcome to 2024 Beekeepers! Episode 113

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 21:13:53 -0500

Here we are starting a new year and getting another chance to all be even better beekeepers. In this episode: a challenge to you all to stretch your skills and go deeper! Also, thinking about the disservice we do to new beekeepers focusing on starting with a package instead of a nuc... and other random tidbits including some teasers on upcoming episodes. So glad you are here! Leigh -- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen hives in a rural Appalachian highland climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Episode 112: Year’s End Reflections

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 21:33:58 -0500

Thinking aloud on the factors in my beekeeping practice that may have contributed to a successful 13th year of fully chemical-free beekeeping. But first, some of the bad beekeeping I've done lately...ha! :-) THANK YOU Patrons for your continued support. You make these podcasts possible...AND commercial free for everyone! Leigh -- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Episode 111: New ways to monitor mites? Research project from Zac Lamas (and random bee chat)

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 20:59:14 -0500

Wanted to get this out there tonight but will have to compile the links I mention tomorrow! By then, this free link should have the info mentioned in the episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/93855226

This podcast continues to be listener-powered and free of adverts and sponsorship messages. Thanks to the Patrons!!

:-) Leigh

-- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 110: Begin Again! Late Fall 2023

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 20:04:59 -0500

Greetings from a new homeplace! Bee yard goings on as Autumn rolls into a colder season. It is such a delight to be back with you.

Leigh

This podcast continues to be listener-powered and free of adverts and sponsorship messages. Thanks to the Patrons!!

-- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ep 109 Specialty Splits: Part 1

Tue, 16 May 2023 20:11:37 -0400

Reviewing the content of a club talk I gave last month "Specialty Splits: Or, Why would you Ever just do a Walkaway?"

This podcast continues to be listener-powered so remains free of adverts and sponsorship messages. Thank you Patrons!!

-- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

108: Bee Radio Reader: Bait Hives

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 11:19:03 -0400

108: Bee Radio Reader: Bait Hives

Reading the older article Bait Hives for Honey Bees by Dr. Tom Seeley et al. Read the article here.

Ep 107: Coming out of Winter and HELLO AGAIN!

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:53:13 -0400

Ep 107: Coming out of Winter and HELLO AGAIN!

(Recorded mid-March 2023) It's so exciting to see the new beekeeping season on the horizon....even if I had horrid overall winter survival due to things I failed do last season. I'll talk about late winter colony issues and care, how NOT to have a winter like I had, how to get the most out of bee mentors and your bee guild, and other random bee chat to start up the podcast for the year.

The splits book will be delayed -- I'd hoped to have it ready for you by now! -- but I'll be sharing the pieces in progress with the Patrons here as well as sharing other tips and bonus content here every week.

This podcast continues to be listener-powered so remains free of adverts and sponsorship messages. Thank you Patrons!!

-- Please become a Friend of Five Apple on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Black Jar Results and How-To; Weird goings on at the Farm; Part 1 about Optera (105)

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 20:32:13 -0400

Our local black jar honey contest has awarded the winners! Sadly, I'm not among them...but some great folks are. A foray into Fall weirdness at the home apiary with some robbing and (whut?!) bees building outside a tree. And a teaser about the potentially amazing product-to-come, Optera. Hope you enjoy! Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Episode 104: The leaves are turning!

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 10:03:31 -0400

Hello wonderful Patrons and all listeners! FINALLY a new episode - catching up a bit on the farm bees, pre-winter prep progress and random bits. THANK YOU ALL for your support and patience with me. Leigh ps. I mentioned a couple of videos I've enjoyed lately. Bee videos are my favorite way to make kitchen clean up more enjoyable! :-) I was letting bee videos play in the background and ended up learning a lot listening to some I might not have chosen to watch otherwise... I have links, descriptions and comments on this (public) Patreon post. Hope you enjoy! https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-104-are-73001852 -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments thus far. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Bee Radio Reader: Combining Hives Early for Fall (103)

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 21:08:51 -0400

Bee Radio Reader: Combining Hives Early for Fall (103) Reading from "Practical Mergers: Do It Soon" by Zachary Lamas, August 2020, by permission of Bee Culture Magazine. -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a dozen-ish hives in a rural Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Summertime and the living is....hot! (102)

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 13:04:01 -0400

Episode 102: Summertime and the living is....hot. Tips on cooling off hives in summer; REVIEW of test-frame technique to detect queenlessness vs other reasons. WINNER of the Bee Culture magazine sub from episode 100!!!

Thank you all so much for listening! I invite everyone to join on Patreon below for more content --or if you just want to support the show. If that's not your thing -- please consider leaving a five-star review on Apple podcasts if you enjoy this podcast. I appreciate you all so much. Leigh

-- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

I’m Back! Lots to tell you about: Split results, combines, laying worker help (101)

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:50:42 -0400

In this episode: LOVING the runaway (or flyback) split after all! / comparisons of other types of splits / tips for newspaper combines / tips for fixing a laying worker colony. I go on and on since I have lots of built up stuff to tell you! Please forgive me on that (and ignore the JET going overhead during the middle ). So glad to be back in the bees and back chatting with you! Leigh

Episode 100! Double Screen Board Love

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 13:55:47 -0400

Episode 100! Double Screen Board Love Links mentioned in the episode: This is the link (free and open to everyone) if you are interested in the book and Bee Culture subscription mentioned in celebration of this 100th episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-100-love-65588303 Bob Binnie on splitting with a double screen board. Please note he is using queen cells so the compartment without flying bees for a while after the split does NOT have to feed and raise the queen cells. I mention this important detail in the pod episode too... https://youtu.be/Z62UwOLfdMo The Apiarist blog post on making vertical splits using a 'split board' that I mentioned: https://www.theapiarist.org/vertical-splits-making-increase/ I'll be doing a video explainer and a printable recipe for patrons on vertical splits to accompany the next episode. -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Thinking about Splits (99)

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 20:36:57 -0400

Thinking about Splits (99) - Hi Patrons! Hit me up with your questions about splits in the comments of the show post at Patreon and I'd be happy to try to help ! https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Compilation on The Nucleus Split Method (98)

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 11:09:59 -0500

Hi everyone! This is a compilation episode of previous patreon-only episodes 66 and 85-- both on the Nucleus Split method which I use a lot. It's simple, pretty safe* even if the weather is still cool. Also gives a brood break to the great majority of the bees which helps lessen mite reproduction. (*as long as you make sure the queen retirement nuc has plenty of bees to cover the frames on cold nights AND as long as you GO BACK to the queenless portion ON TIME to either pull queen cell frames and staff to mating nucs/queen castes...OR to cull the queen cells down to ONE. All this is explained in this audio compilation!) Contents: Introduction / fundraiser for World Central Kitchen wck.org who is currently supporting the citizens of Ukraine...and a way to get yourself some Five Apple Farm honey as a bonus when you donate / Local support to Common Ground of Eastern North Carolina on behalf of the listeners / SEGMENT 1: A reading from The Apiarist, a favorite blog out of Scotland with his how-to on making nucleus splits (66) / SEGMENT 2: My discussion of making nucleus splits (85) and a tale of a split gone wild. Enjoy! For the patrons I'll be posting a downloadable 'recipe' for the basic nucleus split as well as some variations I use to make more queens with it! kind regards, Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Bookmark for Bonus episode (97) for Patrons: Thoughts on the Interview

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 12:08:48 -0500

Bonus episode (97) for Patrons: Thoughts on the Interview A rambling recount of tidbits I took away from the Ang Roell interview and the study results and how it will affect splits in my own beekeeping....but also drawing your attention to bits of info that were small in mention but HUGE in importance. Hope you enjoy. THANK YOU PATRONS!! Leigh Please check out the PDF " Walk Away Split Recipe & Fact Sheet" available free at https://www.theykeepbees.com/beekeeping-classes for context. Hope you enjoy! Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ang Roell Interview Part 2 (96)

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 20:33:10 -0500

Ang Roell Interview Part 2 (96) In this portion with dig deeper into the factors affecting queen quality in the study as well as wander on some enjoyable tangents! Please check out the PDF " Walk Away Split Recipe & Fact Sheet" available free at www.theykeepbees.com for context. Hope you enjoy! Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Ang Roell on Queen Research Results, Part 1 (95)

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 15:13:48 -0500

I've been watching the research, results and resources emerging from the work of Ang Roell, Sam Comfort and team for a few years now! Their latest data and resources have gone above and beyond! AND have directly application to backyard beekeepers who want to raise their own queens and get a QUALITY result.

To get the free resources mentioned in the episode go here and look for the downloads toward the bottom of the page AND sign up for the Queen School series (free) to see the online presentations and if you want to join them in person in the summer:

https://www.theykeepbees.com/beekeeping-classes

Welcome to Bee Season 2022! (94)

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 21:46:23 -0500

Welcome to Bee Season 2022! (episode 94) Despite the cold and snow...the bee season is starting up in those hives! Listen in for goings on here at the farm (love that sandwich box trick), propolis curtains (!), some tips on what to watch out for AND prepare for next. The annual "Don't Give Up" talk...and a challenge to choose the next new skill to up your beekeeping game in 2022! -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $3 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Book Review: The Rose Hive Method by Tim Rowe (93)

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 13:34:21 -0500

Check your hives for winter weight! Then....please enjoy this reflection on Irish beekeeper Tim Rowe's 2016 book "The Rose Hive Method." Patrons, I'll be passing the book along to one of you! See the post and let me know why you are interested in reading! (details in the episode). Post is here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/59993768

-- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $1 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

More experiments in overwintering (92)

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 16:03:39 -0500

Nucs over double-screen boards, more winter patty love, boxes with wood shavings vs foam board top insulation....the winter testing ground here we come. An extra for patrons--Links to equipment and videos mentioned in this episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/58906090 Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $1 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high elevation Appalachian forest climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

On Fall Feeding (91)

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 06:31:00 -0400

Listened to an episode of Honey Bee Obscura (their episode 41) on fall feeding and wanted to share observations it brought to mind and other ideas about feeding options with you all. It's that time of year! This episode of BFAF released on 06 OCT to Patrons and to the public on 10 OCT. Patrons, remember you have your own audio RSS feed for all the podcasts, plus your early releases and bonus episodes. If you log into Patreon and navigate to your membership tab, your private RSS feed is show there and can be copy/pasted into your favorite podcast app! Show notes and links mentioned in this episode are available to everyone here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/57083467 -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcasts and early access episodes • Access to Patreon blog posts including tips and videos • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! If you can support the show with $1 a month or more, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She cares for around a 'beekeeper's dozen' of hives in a rural, high Appalachian climate. Colonies are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance, but without chemical treatments. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Taking Stock of the Season (90)

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:45:00 -0400

Doing the first look-back of the 2021 season at the things that have gone well so far! Thank you Patrons and Listeners! I appreciate each and every one of you. kind regards, Leigh (recorded 21SEP21 - released to Patrons on 26SEP21) -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon • blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcast you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Bee Radio Reader: More on Winter Prep (89)

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 17:28:22 -0400

Thank you Bee Culture magazine and Ross Conrad for this article. Also included in the episode, chat about goings on here at the farm. Get your Bee Culture subscription and have access to years of archives in addition to the magazine! https://www.beeculture.com/magazine/

Recorded on 17AUG21

kind regards to each of you and THANK YOU PATRONS for making this podcast possible! -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon • blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcast you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Bee Radio Reader: Winter Bees! (88)

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 16:41:47 -0400

Bee Radio Reader: Winter Bees! (88) Thank you to Meghan Milbrath and American Bee Journal for this article from January 2020: https://americanbeejournal.com/the-greatest-generation-winter-bees/ Subscribe to American Bee Journal here: https://www.dadant.com/catalog/books-subscriptions/american-bee-journal kind regards to each of you and THANK YOU PATRONS for making this podcast possible! -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon • blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcast you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Bears and Bees don't mix... (87)

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 18:19:42 -0400

Bears and Bees don't mix... (87)

Let me tell you a tale of woe (that could have been SO much worse) but hopefully you will learn from my mistakes!

Thank you to each and every Patron and Listener!!

kind regards, Leigh

-- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon • blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcast you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

I'm in love with the Layens hive...

Tue, 25 May 2021 10:49:59 -0400

I'm in love with the Layens hive... (86)

Here's the long rambling story of how I accidentally fell in love with a Layens hive and got one going in my yard as an experiment....and plan to gradually transition to a similar hive style in the future (once I build it compatible with Lang frame width). Photos and links mentioned are found here and available to all:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/51674430

-- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Making Nucleus Splits (85)

Wed, 05 May 2021 15:53:55 -0400

[BOOKMARK...plus a tip on bees vs calendars] In the full episode: Back in Episode 66 (another Patron-exclusive podcast) we covered how to make a "Nucleus Split" according to the recipe over at The Apiarist blog. The Nucleus Split has been my split of choice this particular Spring. Most times it goes swimmingly! Other times, split gets real. ;-) Either way, it gives excellent results in a split that can be used to make one or multiple new colonies -- all without risking your mother colony. Thank you to every Patron who keeps this podcast going! kind regards, Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon • blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcast you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Hive Record Keeping Ramble (84)

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 15:55:25 -0400

Hive Record Keeping Ramble (84) Just how many ways can a person keep hive notes? As many ways as there are people keeping bees. And for some of us there may be a slightly different way every year... Hope you enjoy. How are you keeping your hive records? kind regards, Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcase If you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen hives. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Early Spring Inspections, encore (83)

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 10:26:52 -0400

Here we go! Things are starting up for real in the mountains of North Carolina. This episode is a new intro and then a discussion of inspections I shared last year with the Patreon listeners. Happy Spring! Leigh -- Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get: • BONUS podcast or early access episode every month! • Access to Patreon blog posts including "Tip of the Week" • Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees • Input on the podcast topics • Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! You can support this podcase If you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple -- About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Bee Season 2021 Begins!! (82)

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 06:20:00 -0400

Bee Season 2021 Begins!! (82)

Mentioned in this episode:

The Lives of Bees by Tom Seeley

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42585085-the-lives-of-bees

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!
• Access to Patreon blog posts including "Tip of the Week"
• Special Q&A posts to ask me questions about YOUR bees
• Input on the podcast topics
• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

You can support this podcase If you are able to share $1 or up a month, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-ish stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Update from Leigh.... (Ep 81, but not really)

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 09:34:08 -0500

Update from Leigh.... (Ep 81, but not really)

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Reading: The Toolbox! (80)

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 20:05:24 -0500

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December Notes; Book Review bookmark (79)

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 07:26:21 -0500

Some notes on the bees this month...and a bookmark for the full episode for Patrons which is a book review and thoughts about Michael Bush's new book...Beekeeping Naturally: A Simple Recipe.

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Late November Catch Up (78)

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 11:53:32 -0500

Random tidbits about shed bees, moving nucs, see-through inner covers, hive beetles and more. I'm so thankful for each of you listeners! kind regards, Leigh

Links I mentioned in this epidode are here for everyone:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/44482859

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

You can now join for as little as $1 a month, as times are tough for so many. If you are able and would like to support this podcast, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-plus (plus) stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Plant Trees! Interview with Jimmy Gatt (77)

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 10:09:03 -0500

Show notes are available to everyone at:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/43960833

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Breaking down Summer Dearth Effects and a short reading (76)

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 09:22:00 -0400

Understanding late summer dearth issues; Short reading from Sue Hubbell's "A Book of Bees." (Early release for Patrons on Tuesday, Oct 20, 2020. Thank you Patrons for keeping this show going!)

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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In Memory, Updates, Part II Winter prep (75)

Sat, 10 Oct 2020 13:27:00 -0400

Episode 75: In Memory, Updates, Part II Winter prep

Bonus Podcast Bookmark AND a feeding tip: Wisdom from 40+ Year with Irish Bees (74)

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 10:57:59 -0400

This is the bookmark to let Patrons know their bonus episode has been posted at https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple and is available on their exclusive RSS feed. Also this bookmark contains a HANDY TIP on feeding for everyone. The full podcast is a discussion on notes I took from a talk by an Irish beekeeper with vast experience -- he shared so many tips I was working hard to write them down! kind regards to you all, Leigh

Winter Prep 1: Start with Stores (73)

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 18:25:00 -0400

Winter Prep 1: Start with Stores

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Late Summer: Random Thoughts & Robbing (72)

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 16:35:38 -0400

Show notes are here https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-72-late-40966216

along with the link to the youtube channel I mentioned enjoying. Thanks for listening! Leigh

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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Interview: Ang Roell of They Keep Bees (71)

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 06:42:00 -0400

Ang Roell is a fascinating, young, radical, inspiring beekeeper who was great fun to interview!

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

You can now join for as little as $1 a month, as times are tough for so many. If you are able and would like to support this podcast, please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen-plus stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor, genetic diversity and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Late Summer (70)

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 19:33:17 -0400

Just thinking out loud a bit about late summer stuff in the bee yard...Episode 70: Late Summer

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On Learning from Mistakes (69)

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0400

Flying queens, marking queens well and badly, finally a flow, and general bee yard ramblings.

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Honey Stuff Part II, Bears, Goings On (68)

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 08:07:00 -0400

Honey Stuff Part II, Bears, Goings On (68)

Tips on an extracting set up and I ramble on from there.... :-)

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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Getting Honey Part 1 (67)

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 12:42:27 -0400

Getting Honey Part 1 (67) -- Mostly beginner tips, idea and ramblings about getting honey off your hives. Part 2 will have a link collection. Thanks so much for being a listener! :-) Leigh

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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Bookmark: Bonus episode for patrons is up! On The Nucleus Method (66)

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 11:09:23 -0400

A bookmark to let the patrons know a bonus podcast, a reading of The Nucleus Method (for swarm prevention and/or making splits) is up for listening at Patreon.com/fiveapple

I'll be back with regular episode 67 very shortly....on honey! Thanks so much for being a listener! Leigh

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Apiary update & After a hive swarms (65)

Tue, 26 May 2020 22:10:39 -0400

Episode 65: Apiary update & After a hive swarms

Show notes and links mentioned are (free) at https://www.patreon.com/posts/37568315

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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Bookmark: Bonus Audio on Inspections up on Patreon (64)

Sun, 10 May 2020 11:32:00 -0400

Just an audio bookmark to let Patrons know a bonus podcast on Inspections is up for listening at Patreon.com/fiveapple I'll be back with regular episodes as soon as possible after my microphone bit the dust. A new one is on the way! Next regular episode is Q&A so if you have questions you would like me to attempt then please send a message on Patreon, Facebook or by email! more soon! Leigh

Please become a "Friend of the Podcast" on Patreon and join the folks who make the podcasts possible! In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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Readings: On Drawing Hive Inspections (63)

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 10:04:00 -0400

Link to article and images in the public show notes at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/36531617

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On Splits, Part Three; Some Q & A (62)

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 12:50:45 -0400

The Doolittle Box using a queen excluder; tips for adding a caged mated queen; beekeeper error; Q re the name 'Cut Down'; using wallpaper steamer to harvest wax and clean boxes and wooden frames.

On Splits, Part Three; Some Q & A (62)

Please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today and join the folks who make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

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• Input on podcast topics

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On Splits, Part two: THE CUT DOWN! (61)

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 11:14:25 -0400

The ultimate split imo for big overwintered hives: The Cut Down! Requires intermediate skills. To print the diagram go to: https://www.patreon.com/posts/35851139 (free to everyone though I'd welcome you to join as a Friend of Five Apple if you are able!)

Please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today and join the folks who make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Special Q&A posts to ask questions about YOUR bees

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!

• Input on podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

On Splits, Part One (60)

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 09:52:23 -0400

Some links on splits:

UoG Honey Bee Research Centre (Canada): Nice overview of some splits using mated queens. (But wear your veil! haha!) https://youtu.be/FwGWN0AyoFg

Bee Culture Article: https://www.beeculture.com/making-splits/

The voluminous geek reference of Dave Cushman's (UK) site. I love it. See left column for many splits and related topics: http://www.dave-cushman.net/bee/increase.html

Please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today and join the folks who make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Special Q&A posts to ask questions about YOUR bees

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!

• Input on podcast topics

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Interview with Lewis Cauble (59)

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 10:00:49 -0400

Show notes including links to the videos mentioned today are available to everyone here:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/35004660

Please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today and join the folks who make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

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• Input on podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

Late winter in the bee yard (58)

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 22:58:34 -0400

Late winter / very early spring stuff in the bee yard at Five Apple: avoiding starvation, reversing boxes....

Please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today and join the folks who make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

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• Input on podcast topics

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Interview with Queen Breeder Cory Stevens (57)

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 09:22:36 -0500

In this interview with queen breeder Cory Stevens we talk virgin queens, the challenges of raising queens as a business, and much more. Patrons, I hope you enjoy this early release which will go public on February 22nd. Content is most suited to intermediate beekeepers who are comfortable making splits and introducing mated queens to a split. Once that feels comfortable -- consider adding great genetics to your yard via virgin queens from breeders like Cory. While they are a bit more challenging to introduce....they are cheaper to try out (so get several!) and since they mate with you local drones you can combine the benefits of selected genetics with your local bees.

Cory's on facebook as Stevens Bee Company and his website is: https://www.stevensbeeco.com/

This episode was released a week early over at Patreon -- Please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today and join the folks who make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Special Q&A posts to ask questions about YOUR bees

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!

• Input on podcast topics

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Journeyman Test Review Segment A (56)

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 17:48:31 -0500

Reading of some sections of study material for the NC Journeyman level test. (Not a typical episode if you are a brand new listener! )

Bee-School Radio Part 4: Seasons & Cycles (55)

Sun, 09 Feb 2020 11:44:12 -0500

Bees are always working toward *something* and that something depends on where they are in the life cycle of the colony in relation to the cycle of the season. Understanding those layers will make beekeeping made a ton more sense! Also: Friends of Five Apple, check the Patreon page for new blog post on keeping apiary records and bonus podcast about the recent bee-shed drama and how the hives at Five Apple are doing this winter.

If you are getting value from the podcast please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today! You make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Special Q&A posts to ask questions about YOUR bees

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!

• Input on podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

Please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina with around a dozen or so stands. Hives are managed for bee health with active selection for vigor and disease resistance. The apiary is self-sustaining (not needing to buy/catch replacement bees since 2010) and produces honey and nucs most every year.

Listener Mail & Upcoming Episodes (54)

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 21:28:47 -0500

Going over listener questions and messages. The honey Winner! Plans for upcoming episodes. New beekeeper hazing...(just kidding).

If you are getting value from the podcast please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today! You make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Special Q&A posts to ask questions about YOUR bees

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!

• Input on podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

Please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Interview: Tina Sebestyen of Colorado (53)

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 08:24:16 -0500

You have probably met Tina Sebestyen in the pages of Bee Culture or American Bee Journal where she is a most excellent writer as well as an experienced beekeeper in the high desert region of Colorado. Show notes and link to her website are at https://www.patreon.com/posts/33439459

If you are getting value from the podcast please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today! You make the podcasts possible with a pledge of $4 or more. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive weekly blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Special Q&A posts to ask questions about YOUR bees

• BONUS podcast or early access episode every month!

• Input on podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you!

Please sign up today: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Bee-School Radio Part 3: Equipment. Plus Honey Giveaway & more (52)

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 17:20:37 -0500

Show notes appear shortly after the episode over at https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple where you can also become a supporter of the podcast should you feel inclined! All the best to all of you, Leigh

Bee-School Radio Part 2: The Colony (51)

Sat, 11 Jan 2020 14:14:00 -0500

Talking about the whole hive as 'the animal.'

https://www.patreon.com/posts/33062208

Bee-School Radio 2020 is collection of special episodes of the podcast dedicated to brand new beekeepers.

------

If you are getting value from the podcast please become a "Friend of Five Apple" on Patreon today! Your $4 a month make more podcasts possible. In addition to huge gratitude, you get:

• Access to exclusive blog posts including "Tip of the Week"

• Exclusive Q&A post every week where you can ask me questions

• BONUS podcast every month!

• Occasional early access to regular episodes

• Input on the podcast topics

• Shout-outs on the show because I appreciate you! Please sign up today here:

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Readings: Post at The Apiarist (50)

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 10:26:22 -0500

Show notes with all episode links will be posted at https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Bee-School Radio Part 1: Do you have what it takes? (49)

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 20:08:28 -0500

Part 1: Do you have what it takes to be a good beekeeper? This episode includes an easy test to give you the answer.

Bee-School Radio 2020 is collection of special episodes of the podcast dedicated to brand new beekeepers.

About Beekeeping at Five Apple Farm: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The apiary is managed for bee health with active selection for vigor and disease resistance since 2010. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting the show as a patron: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Closing out 2019 plus encouragement: Don't Give Up! (48)

Sun, 29 Dec 2019 09:56:16 -0500

The last episode of 2019! Some thanks, some encouragement. Show notes are posted here and include links to sources I mentioned as well as news about the podcast:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-48-out-32811980

I'll be doing a 'Bee-School Radio' series for beginner beekeepers starting in January on the podcast to supplement the information at your local bee schools. Please spread the word with your clubs and social media places.

Interview: Bryan Fisher (47)

Sat, 21 Dec 2019 09:57:00 -0500

Bryan Fisher is a fourth-generation beekeeper and North Carolina Master Beekeeper who runs well over a hundred hives in addition to his day job! He is also someone I greatly respect and admire. Show notes, including links to some of Bryan's presentations on YouTube can be found at https://www.patreon.com/posts/32518781

PS. I'll be doing a 'Bee School Radio' series for beginner beekeepers starting in January for podcast listeners. More on that soon.

Readings: On Replacing Old Comb (46)

Sat, 14 Dec 2019 06:07:00 -0500

Show notes are at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/32328651

About the podcast: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The apiary is managed for bee health with active selection for vigor and disease resistance since 2010. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting the show as a patron: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

From the listeners: Gratitudes on Beekeeping (45)

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 15:38:54 -0500

Episode 45 show notes at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/32095933

--About the podcast: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The apiary is managed for bee health and vigor—free of chemical-treatments and without buying/catching replacement bees since 2010. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting the show as a patron: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

How to slyly bring up BEES at Thanksgiving! (44)

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 10:34:34 -0500

It’s a short and silly one but I’m thinking of you all as Thanksgiving approaches. Please visit the Five Apple Farm: Bees, Honey & More page on Facebook and tell me your gratitudes about being a beekeeper! I’ll share those next weekend.

The Bee Barn! (43)

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 10:00:43 -0500

The little nucs are cozy in the bee barn. Now we’ll see how it goes. Show notes with pics will appear in the next few days over at https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple/posts

About the podcast: Leigh keeps bees at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The apiary is managed for bee health and vigor—free of chemical-treatments and without buying/catching replacement bees since 2010. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting the show as a patron: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Interview: Dr Meghan Milbrath (42)

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 05:27:00 -0500

Show notes with links mentioned in episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/31450833

About the podcast: Leigh Knott keeps around a dozen-ish hives at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The apiary is managed for bee health and vigor —free of chemical-treatments and without buying/catching replacement bees since 2010. If you enjoy the podcast I would welcome your support of the show at: https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Dear Queen Stubby and the Observation hive (41)

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 09:37:13 -0500

Show notes are at: https://www.patreon.com/posts/31450407

Listener questions; Sugar Brick Recipes (40)

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 05:23:15 -0400

Show notes, posts & links at https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Free sugar block recipe mentioned is here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/feeding-bees-in-31022420

Quilt gallery post mentioned (a weekly bonus-post for patrons of the show) is here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/31101477

First Interview! Mark Smith of Flatwoods Bee Farm (39)

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 22:32:19 -0400

None of this would be possible without the generous donations from THE RECORDER CREW!

i didn’t get the chance to add an intro and wrap up but will get better at all this. :-) Mark started with bees in 2010 and has been fully chemical free since 2013. He maintains upwards of 30-50 hives outside of Charlotte NC in Locust. Find him on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/flatwoodsbeefarm/https://www.facebook.com/flatwoodsbeefarm

Thank you all for telling your beekeeping friends about the podcast and leaving reviews on Apple Podcasts! And to the Patreon supporters: Huge gratitude! Please consider becoming part of the Farm Crew at:

https://www.patreon.com/fiveapple

More Winter Prep: Reading on Insulation and Ventilation (38)

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 12:37:38 -0400

Show notes are available to everyone and include link to the online article I read from -- you can find it here: www.patreon.com/fiveapple

WINTER PREP: The high-speed Overview (37)

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 10:35:05 -0400

Show notes will be posted and available to everyone at: www.patreon.com/fiveapple

Book Review Part 2 - Selected Reading (36)

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 16:43:47 -0400

Book Review Part 2 - Selection read from Chapter 3 "Tolerant Stock." Continuation of last episode's discussion of the excellent book "Keeping Bees Alive: Sustainable Beekeeping Essentials" by Lawrence John Connor (Wicwas Press, 2019) And some GREAT news! The recorder is a go thanks to incredible support from:

Deborah in Georgia, Michael in South Carolina, Jeff in North Carolina, Michelle in North Carolina, William in Minnesota, Herbert in Mississippi, and Joan C. THANK YOU ALL for the generous funding of a recorder with which I can do interviews to share on this podcast!

with huge gratitude,

Leigh

questions or ideas for the next episode? Email me at blueridge714 [at] gmail [dot] com or send a message from the Five Apple Farm: Bees, Honey & More page on Facebook.

Book Review: Keeping Bees Alive by Lawrence John Conner ( 35 )

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 10:19:09 -0400

Discussion of this interesting book by Wicwas Press. (Part 1 of 2)

THANK YOU to contributors to helped get the new interview recorders!!!

Other ways to help:

Tell a beekeeping friend or beekeepers organization about the podcast.

Write a review of why you like the show and give it a great rating on Apple podcasts or wherever you listen.

Thanks to every one of you for listening!

Leigh

blueridge714 [at] gmail [dot] com

About this current rabbit hole (34)

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 10:28:19 -0400

Some random chat about what I’m reading and studying for a future episode; stress free alcohol wash hack from Jeff; bee barn teaser; missing Kevin; the usual wanderings.

Feed them if they need it (and maybe for other reasons) (33)

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 09:11:16 -0400

Taking the simple feeding of sugar syrup for hives you find too light to make it....and complicating it with things to tweak? Guilty. Part 1.

Test results, Winter Prep part A (032)

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 10:05:30 -0400

About that NC Journeyman test. Winter prep: building population vs adding weight.

After the NCSBA conference, testing, gut microbes... (031)

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 09:02:49 -0400

Random items from the conference, geeking out on gut microbes...

Reading: Activities and Behavior of Honey Bees (030)

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 10:49:21 -0400

Selections from Norman E Gary, chapter 8 of Hive & The Honey Bee (Dadant).

Also:

The observation hive I’m trying out:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/19583341/indoor-full-size-bee-keeping-observation

Michael Bush on Observation hives:
http://www.bushfarms.com/beesobservationhives.htm

Avoiding hive robbers of the bee and human kind (029)

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 10:37:09 -0400

Gadget Garage with nice robber screen and other handy things (thanks Jeff!) https://youtu.be/xWA49Oy5Skw Photo of the Z fold hardware cloth robber screen similar to what I use — especially on all nucs: http://thebeehivejive.com/2017/02/22/make-simple-robbing-screens-now-get-ahead-summer/ Thanks for listening! Leigh

EFB recovery; Late Summer is critical to overwintering, more. (028)

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 10:00:17 -0400

I’m happy to report good news on the two hives that had EFB. Also: Late summer is a critical decision/action window for your hives. Some things to consider, plan and prevent...

Listener Mail: Top bars, hives without queens, swarm cells to nucs (027)

Sun, 14 Jul 2019 22:24:10 -0400

Top bars, natural comb, podcasting errors, hives without a Queen (apparently), queens from swarm cells — Listener Mail edition. First part recorded in the morning, 2nd part late at night....you may notice the different energy tone, haha! ;-) Thanks so much for listening! Leigh

Summer bee plants, selected reading 2/2, Caron/Connor (026)

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 22:56:07 -0400

Continuing with the reading of a selection on Summer and Fall bee plants.

Summer bee plants, selected reading 1, Caron/Connor (025)

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 12:37:59 -0400

Show notes and links to come.

How Many?!?! Adventures with virgin queens (024)

Sat, 29 Jun 2019 11:22:48 -0400

Can you have too many new queens? Yes! But who can refuse the challenge to give it a try? Not me. Alternative title: Why my post office knows me by name....

European Foulbrood (023)

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:53:58 -0400

European foulbrood is a bummer to discover in a hive. It could be worse though. Talking through some options.

Bee Health Guru App, Moving Bees, more (022)

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 07:50:30 -0400

Bee yard updates, Summer Splits (021)

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 09:03:50 -0400

Finally, a way to do a cut down split WITHOUT finding the queen! Thanks to Tina Sebasteyan in the May 2019 American Bee Journal.

Article by Tom Seeley: Darwinian Beekeeping (020)

Wed, 29 May 2019 06:11:51 -0400

Sorry about the poor sound quality on this one... If you would rather just read this interesting article it's here:

https://www.naturalbeekeepingtrust.org/darwinian-beekeeping

Seeley interviewed on Science Friday. This is great!

https://www.sciencefriday.com/segments/beekeeping-tips-from-bees/

Making a Nuc to sell, Problems with Packages & More (019)

Tue, 28 May 2019 08:03:00 -0400

Managing Mites Part II (018)

Sun, 19 May 2019 10:13:44 -0400

Show notes to come.

Managing mites Part 1 (016-17)

Sun, 12 May 2019 18:51:02 -0400

————————————————————————————————————

Links mentioned in Episode 16:
Mites. If you want live bees, you will need a plan to deal with mites. It does not have to be chemical if you are willing to develop other skills (and actually use them). But being aware and knowledgeable about the organic treatments may be what you need to know one day to save your hive (so that you can requeen with more disease resistant stock).

Say hello at the Facebook page — Five Apple Farm
https://www.facebook.com/5applefarm/

I’m now a super-fan of Dr. Meghan Milbrath of Sand Hill Bees (Michigan). When I eventually figure out how to do recorded interviews on this podcast she is on my short list to interview. Read/Watch/Listen to her presentations for some of the most understandable, science-based rationale on moving toward treatment-free beekeeping out there — well seasoned with reality. That last part is what makes her work really stand out imo.

I probably could have skipped this whole podcast and just shared the links below with a bunch of exclamation points. ;-)

https://tinyurl.com/y6fbvwtd
PDF of her article YOUR BEES DON’T HAVE TO DIE: HOW CAN WE BECOME TREATMENT-FREE WITHOUT KILLING OUR COLONIES?

http://www.sandhillbees.com/education
Collection of Milbrath’s articles, presentations at her apiary website.

Keep Bees Alive

http://keepbeesalive.org
( https://pollinators.msu.edu/keep-bees-alive/ )
A treasure trove of information to keep your bees healthy. Really great resource.

THIS!!!! The best (imo) educational webinar in this collection. Please watch this! (also works well as audio-only). Making a plan for varroa:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=km541EtCjbY

The printed version of above is here:
https://tinyurl.com/yxbms5pe

All three webinars by Milbrath are here:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD7AYI-MRu_3mp3oRW1kWVw

(Episode numbering adjusted. Will call this episode 16-17 and next will be 18. This will correct a numbering error in an early episode.)
———————————————————————————————————

Bonus: Reading from “Requeening” by Larry Connor (015)

Sun, 05 May 2019 08:11:57 -0400

This is a ‘radio reader’ episode of an online article “Requeening” by master beekeeper, queen breeder and author Larry Connor. More articles and his (excellent) books available at www.wicwas.com Link to this article: https://www.beeculture.com/requeening/ Clarification from last week (Thanks Chris!) This is the Bush bees I was referring to...link below. Tons of good info on his website and even though I’d read a lot of it there over the years, when I received his book “The Practical Beekeeper” as a Christmas gift I found myself reading it cover to cover and really enjoying it. http://www.bushfarms.com/bees.htm

My hive is queenless, what now? (014)

Sat, 04 May 2019 09:46:44 -0400

Dealing with a hive that appears queenless / Figuring out if it is really queenless / Bush’s Panacea Cure / Queen cells from micro-breeders becoming more available. ( Mostly beginner but with intermediate bits too) About the podcast: Leigh started with bees in 2010 and keeps around a dozen hives at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, fully chemical free and without buying replacement bees since starting. When I mention Michael Bush in this and other episodes, this is the website which is a treasure trove of bee reading: http://www.bushfarms.com/bees.htm (Thanks Chris!)

Listener Questions, Bee Ramblings (013)

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 08:09:31 -0400

Preventing swarming after splits. Listener question: What advice would you now give your first year beekeeper self.

Queen Rearing Using a Cloake Board (Sue Cobey’s article) (012)

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 09:17:01 -0400

Today I read selections of Sue Cobey’s classic article on Cloake board queen rearing. Skilled intermediate and up. Full article here (with illustration): https://www.delta-business.com/CalgaryBeekeepers/Bee-Club-Library/Queens%20and%20Nucs/Cloake%20Board%20Method%20of%20Queen%20Rearing%20and%20Banking%20Sue%20Cobey.pdf

Simple ‘Frame-Based’ Queen Rearing, Part 2 (011)

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 13:54:00 -0400

Without moving anything smaller than a frame (no grafting, that is) you can make a few to several good queens off your favorite hive. References mentioned (some in reference to next episode):

http://www.bushfarms.com/beessplits.htm#cutdown

Generates a calendar for your queens (use with splits by using your split date as the graft date)

https://thebeeyard.org/queen-rearing-calendar/

http://www.dave-cushman.net/bee/queenraise.html

http://www.dave-cushman.net/bee/benhardenmethod.html

https://www.theapiarist.org/vertical-splits-making-increase/

https://www.theapiarist.org/cloake-board-queen-rearing/

https://www.theapiarist.org/ben-harden-queen-rearing-intro/

About the podcast: Leigh Knott started with bees in 2010 and keeps around a dozen hives at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, fully chemical free and without buying replacement bees since starting.

Queen Rearing Basics Part 1 (010)

Sat, 13 Apr 2019 11:23:43 -0400

Aspects to getting quality queens from your own yard. Part one of several. Intermediate level.

Bryan Fisher’s YouTube on Summer Splits:

https://youtu.be/qkVGLJWaO80

Michael Bush slides on basic queen rearing:

http://www.bushfarms.com/QueenRearing.ppt

Listener Mail / Random Q & A / Apiary Update 4/1/19 (007)

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 04:00:36 -0400

Random bee chat — Some feedback from you and questions I attempt to answer: flow hive, building equipment, split remorse, trickle feeding question and more.

Few things I wish I'd known years ago (006)

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 10:11:00 -0400

B/I Many beekeepers are starting out or starting over with Nucs or Packages about now. Exciting time! Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years that may be helpful— trickle feeding, getting comb drawn, preserving comb, sizing the space, getting comfortable, encouragement to practice, read, watch, ponder, rinse and repeat. Beginner/Intermediate.

Welcome! First Podcast Episode /February 2019 ( 1 )

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 22:20:46 -0500

New beekeepers are attending bee schools this month and starting on their path of beekeeping. Welcome to this brand new podcast! Here are a few tips, a few challenges and some encouragement for you. Originally recorded in Feb 2019 with new short intro added Jan 2020. // Show notes for all newer episodes live at: patreon.com/fiveapple

The updated "Bee-School Radio" episodes created for absolute beginners as well as beginner years 0-4 start in January 2020.

Leigh Knott started with bees in 2010 and keeps around a dozen hives at 3000' in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, chemical-free and without buying/catching replacement bees since starting.