Are Bees for Me?

Apiculture - the maintenance of honeybees and hives (Beekeeping) is very interesting and fascinating. It can be a hobby, sideline business, or large commercial operation. Bees produce marketable products such as honey, pollen, royal jelly, beeswax, propolis, and venom. There is a market for bee starter colonies (nucs), established colonies, queens and pollination service.
You may want to relax and watch them, pollinate fruit trees and garden, help the environment or save pollinators.
Below is a list of things to considered before purchasing equipment and bees.

Allergies

Are you or anyone in your family allergic to bee stings?

Location

Do you live in an area that is restricted by city ordinances or subdivision bylaws? Is there enough nectar producing plants in your area?

Water Source

Bees require a lot of water especially in the summer. They use it to cool the hive and it is required in order for them to consume honey. You can provide water in containers with stones, pine cones, sand or other things that can be used as a perch while they drink. Bees love pool water and sweat so there maybe problems if you or your neighbors have a pool.

Time and Dicipline

Bees require routine inspections to make sure they are queen right, healthy, free of pests and that they have adequate space.

Money

The initial investment can be expensive.