How much is a bee hive worth?

As of this writing, a single new hive may cost about $150, clothing and gear may cost about $160, and a package of new bees may run $125 to $150. Often you can find starter kits with bees, boxes, and gear for a better combined price. Read more about beekeeping supplies.

How many beehives should I start with?

two hives

Can beehives face West?

Many experienced beekeepers suggest that the entrance of a beehive ideally should face towards the south or to the east. The southern exposure makes sense. During the winter months – at least in the northern hemisphere – the sun sits low on the southern horizon.

Do beehives need morning sun?

Most sources will tell you that your hive should: Face southeast or east. Have direct morning sun and light afternoon shade. Be protected from high winds.

How close can you put beehives together?

You can space a pair of hives as close to six inches from each other, but you need several feet of space around one or two sides in order to move equipment around as you’re working the hives. Know what predators (man or beast) are in your area and what protection your bees will need.

How many hours of sun does a beehive need?

It’s also important to locate your hives where they will receive five to six hours of sunlight in the winter to help warm the colony and give your bees every chance to get out for a cleansing flight.

Where is the best place to put beehives?

Location fundamentals for your beehives

Face your hive to the southeast.
Position your hive so that it’s easily accessible come honey harvest time.
Provide a windbreak at the rear of the hive.
Put the hive in dappled sunlight.
Make sure the hive has good ventilation.

How many beehives are in an acre?

Average bee hive densities (hives per acre) recommended for crops grown in the USA range from 1-7. Most crops that benefit from honey bees require 2-3. Recommended numbers have inched upwards in recent years because of a drop in wild honey bee densities. More managed bees are required to make up the difference.

How many beehives can you have on 10 acres?

Besides, 2 hives per acre may mean 20 hives at one location in only a ten acre field. Bees work or forage over a wide area, and depending on who you ask or who does the answering that area can bee from 8,000 to over 50,000 acres.

How much money can you make per hive?

Honey Profits If each hive yields 31.9 pounds of honey per year, the retail price of 462 cents per pound means one hive earns $147.39 each year. At those rates, a beekeeper would need over 200 hives to equal a $30,000 per year salary.