My Busy Bee – My Busy Bee

The Amazing Benefits of Propolis Tincture

Propolis, often called “bee glue,” has been treasured for centuries as a natural remedy with countless potential benefits. Produced by bees from tree resins and combined with beeswax, propolis is…

My Busy Bee February 20, 2025Benefits, Europe, Ireland, Propolis, Tincture

Glossary

What is Vitellogenin?

Vitellogenin is a protein that plays a crucial role in honey bee colonies, particularly in the development and survival of the colony’s brood and winter bees. It is a precursor…

My Busy Bee February 16, 2025Brood, Immune, Longevity, Vitellogenin

Colonies

The Fascinating World of Honey Bee Colonies

Honey bees are truly fascinating creatures, living in tightly organised colonies with a clear social structure. Each colony has its own rhythm and purpose, adapting beautifully to Ireland’s seasons. Let’s…

My Busy Bee January 13, 2025Apis mellifera, Eggs, Ireland, Vitellogenin, Weather

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

The Future of Beekeeping

As beekeeping evolves in response to environmental changes and technological advancements, the future holds both significant challenges and promising opportunities. This chapter will explore the key issues that beekeepers will…

My Busy Bee January 6, 2025Biodiversity, Challenges, Education, Environment

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

The Business of Beekeeping

For many beekeepers, what begins as a hobby can develop into a small business or source of side income. Selling honey, beeswax, and other hive products can be a rewarding…

My Busy Bee December 30, 2024Beekeeping, Business, Honey, Producer, Selling

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

Sustainable Beekeeping Practices

Sustainability in beekeeping is increasingly important in the modern world. Sustainable practices ensure that beekeeping is not only productive but also beneficial for the environment and local ecosystems. By focusing…

My Busy Bee December 23, 2024Beekeeping, Chemicals, Flora, Practices

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

Expanding Your Apiary

Once you’ve gained experience managing a single hive, you may consider expanding your apiary. Keeping multiple hives has several advantages: it can increase your honey yield, provide backup colonies in…

My Busy Bee December 16, 2024Apiary, Benefits, Hive, Queen, Raising

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

Preparing for Winter

As the beekeeping season comes to an end, preparing your hive for the winter months is critical to ensuring your colony’s survival. Bees need sufficient food reserves, a well-insulated hive,…

My Busy Bee December 9, 2024Food, Insulation, Ventilation, Winter

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

Harvesting Honey and Other Products

Harvesting honey is one of the most rewarding aspects of beekeeping. However, it must be done with care to ensure both the health of the hive and the quality of…

My Busy Bee December 2, 2024Beewax, Harvesting, Honey, Pollen, Products, Propolis

Beekeeping for Beginners and Experts

Pests, Diseases, and Treatment

One of the biggest challenges in beekeeping is managing pests and diseases that can threaten the health of your hive. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for maintaining a…

My Busy Bee November 25, 2024Diseases, Mites, Pests, Treatment, Varroa