What is the Best Type of Land for Beekeeping?

Over the last few years, especially during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the buzz around beekeeping has been growing. Everyone from novice beekeepers to people just looking for a new hobby to put their energy toward was looking into this activity. No matter where you fall on that scale, we have some information that will be helpful in establishing a successful beekeeping venture.

Why should I start beekeeping?

Apart from general interest and appreciation for this activity, there are tons of benefits to beekeeping. Many people recognize the important role bees play in our environment, but some of the other advantages of being a beekeeper include harvesting honey, pollinating your garden, and having an educational activity that allows for a calming outlet. If you're not quite sure that you want to get started in beekeeping, but you have the space, you may consider leasing your land to established beekeepers. However, if you're ready to move forward in learning more about the perfect land for beekeeping, read on!

What is the best type of land for beekeeping?

If you're the type of person who has decided to get into beekeeping, then you're likely someone who enjoys, or is at least good at, doing research. Beekeeping can be both fun and profitable, but there are several factors such as equipment needed and techniques to implement to consider. Somewhere between the two factors above, you'll also need to consider where you'll place your apiary (the site where you will keep your bees) The good news is that bees are brilliant and resourceful creatures and can be quite adaptable. The most important factors to keep in mind when choosing land to place your hives are:

• A hive will typically take up a space of around 20 inches by 24 inches.
• Is there a sufficient food source nearby? Bees can easily forage up to 1.5 miles away from their hive, so you'll want to find land that fits this radius.
• Does the land have adequate wind protection for the hives? Trees or hedges can offer coverage.
• Avoid areas that are too shaded, flood areas, or may allow animals to get to the hives.
• A clean water source should be within 50 feet away from the hives. The further the bees have to travel for water, the less time they'll have to forage.

In a perfect world, open meadowland with a nearby wetland is a beekeeper’s dream, but as you can see with the factors above, it’s totally possible to successfully build your colonies in different areas.

Special considerations for beekeeping in urban areas

One thing that may surprise many novice beekeepers is that beekeeping is pretty much possible in any setting, not just farms with acres and acres of space. If you're living in a more urban environment, here are some considerations:

• Hives in cities usually thrive as the bees have access to richer biodiversity.
• Look for space on a rooftop - but be sure to consult local and state compliance regulations.
• Informing and educating your neighbors is a must.
• You may need to get creative with your water source.

As you embark on your beekeeping journey, remember that this is a growing hobby, and there are tons of resources available. Consult local groups or check out organizations like the American Beekeeping Federation for more information. Now that you know what to look for in land for your beekeeping check out available listings from Land Hub to get started. Like this article? Please feel free to share or post a link to your site: https://www.landhub.com/land-news/what-is-the-best-type-of-land-for-beekeeping/