Definition of Apiary
An apiary is a location where beehives of honey bees are kept. Apiaries vary in size and can be rural or urban. An apiary may refer to a hobbyistâs or commercial hives.
Beekeeping Basics
Beekeeping is the maintenance of honey bee colonies in hives by humans. Most kept bees are Apis honey bees, but other bees like Melipona stingless bees produce honey too. Beekeeping is considered a type of agriculture. The science and art of raising honey bees is called apiculture.
Managing an Apiary
Well managed apiaries contain up to 80,000 bees. Bees live in wood boxes called hives that contain wax comb made of six-sided chambers called cells. Beekeepers harvest honey that bees do not consume themselves. They sell honey and related products like beeswax. Beekeepers also provide pollination services with their bees.
Starting a Bee Farm
There are various costs involved in starting a bee farm like hives, protective clothing, and bees. Ongoing tasks for beekeepers include keeping hives healthy and productive.