Beekeeping Supplies

1. Bee hive

First and foremost, you need something to keep your bees in. Hives sold at beekeeping stores usually come complete. This means that it already has frames, a bottom board, fume boards, and the cover. Bee hives used for beekeeping are usually large rectangular wooden boxes three to four feet in height.

2. Hive Tool

This one is a sharp tool used to open the hive's cover. You also use it for scraping off beeswax and for prying the frames apart. You can't do without this very useful tool. But you can always use an old sturdy knife in its place.

3. Entrance blockers

You need these plastic or wooden blocks to limit entrance to the hives. These equipments are composed of screens to keep mice away from the bees. It also bans access to robbing bees.

4. Smokers

Smokers are used to calm the bees. As its name suggest, this tool is used for blowing smoke in and around the beehive. By spewing smoke into the bees, they become more manageable.

5. Fume Boards

Fume boards are normally part of the hive. But just in case they aren't, you are going to need some of these to repel the bees and keep them inside. Fume board are very similar to the hive covers. The only difference is that these ones have space to house an absorbent pad containing the bee repellent.

6. Feeders

Bee feeders are used to nourish your bees. It is a can about a gallon in size. It has small holes to fit into the corresponding holes in the hive cover. You pour the syrup into these cans and it falls right into the hive.

7. Light Colored Overalls

Whenever you need to go to your bees to attend to them, you have to wear a protective gear. Bees do sting. And you don't want to get hurt as you feed them or maintain the hive. Overalls are advised because it covers your entire body. You also have to cover your hands with gloves and your feet with boots. White is the most preferred color because it won't aggravate the bees as much as dark colors would.

8. Bee veil

Your face is going to need protection as well. A bee veil is usually a wide brimmed hat with mosquito netting attached to it. It is supposed to keep your neck, face, and head protected from bee stings. You can also use a white shirt in its place. Just make sure that your face is covered with the same protective net to keep bees away from your face.

For a more detailed and complete guide on beekeeping supplies, we highly recommend "Beekeeping For Beginners" by Keith Gilbert