beesThe decline of, and the increasing threats facing, the bee population has produced some alarming headlines in recent months, but the colonies of Grow Your Own enthusiasts have been busy playing their part in preserving and protecting these vital pollinating insects.
They are a key ingredient in a healthy garden, and beekeepers can hive off a tasty little income, with a single colony able to provide up to 100lb of honey a year. Nice for your diet as a replacement for sugar – handy for bartering with friends for some fruit and veg – and a profitable hobby if there is enough left over to be sold.
It’s not just your taste buds that can be tickled. Beeswax can also be used in everything from polish and soaps to candles and cosmetics.
There are few rules to keeping bees and the good news is that experts will be on hand at The Edible Garden Show to discuss the best way to get started and the do’s and don’ts of the beekeeping world.
The British Beekeepers’ Association website at www.britishbee.org.uk has key information on getting started.