Host-A-Hive FAQ
WHY SHOULDN’T I JUST BUY A BEEHIVE AND DO IT MYSELF?
Hosting a beehive has numerous benefits. However, beekeeping has a hefty upfront investment, approximately $800 for one beehive, bees and associated equipment. If the hive suddenly dies due to Colony Collapse Disorder, we will replace the hive at no additional cost to you. For the more intimidated person, this offers a means to have bees without the duty of hive inspections. Come honey harvest time, we take care of the harvest and the packaging too. You get to enjoy the most local of honey possible–straight from your yard. However, if you would still like to take on beekeeping on your own, we're always up for more folks to join the cause!
DO I NEED TO WORRY ABOUT AFRICANIZED BEES?
Not at all. All of our bees are from local swarms or registered apiaries and are not Africanized. Furthermore, Africanized bees are extremely rare in Louisiana, unlike areas such as California and Arizona.
DO YOU CHEMICALLY TREAT YOU BEES?
We avoid it unless absolutely necessary. Beekeeping varies by hive, location, and many other variables. Some hives are able to survive for years with no treatments ever. Other hives die within weeks. Our primary concern are the bees. We believe that healthy bees (and alive ones) are more important than buckets of honey. So with inspections and a natural approach, we try to support the hive with minimal interference. But at the risk of losing a colony to a problem that can be treated, we choose to do what's necessary to save them.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY BEEHIVE DIES?
This is one of the many advantages of hosting a hive. As you may know, the bee population is struggling. Colony Collapse Disorder occurs when the entire hive dies spontaneously. Researchers are still trying to figure out what causes Colony Collapse Disorder, but the probable cause is pesticides and/or mites. In any event, if the hosted hive dies due to reasons other than Host interference, we will replace your hive.
HOW MUCH HONEY AND BEESWAX CAN I EXPECT TO RECEIVE FROM MY HIVE?
Beehive production can vary significantly from hive to hive. As such, we cannot guarantee a specific delivery of wax or honey from your hive, though we will do out best to do so !In the event that your hive does not thrive, we will do our best to substitute with honey and wax from a neighboring hive. You will also be given the opportunity to purchase surplus honey and wax from your hive at a discounted rate.
If you live outside of Orleans Parish, we may still be able to offer our services. Please contact us to discuss things further.
WHERE CAN A HIVE BE PLACED?
Beehives can be placed almost anywhere- in a backyard, on a rooftop, downtown shopping center, etc. With any location, you'll want to meet local and state restrictions to be in compliance. Additionally, picking an environment that helps bees thrives is always best. If you're interested in whether you have good place to host a hive, we can inspect a location for the basic necessities.
HOW MUCH SPACE DO I NEED FOR A HIVE?
Each hive has a footprint of about 2 square feet. We like to place hives about 10 square feet from regular traffic and activity, but each location is unique. We offer free, no obligation consultations so don’t hesitate to contact us if you are interested in hosting a hive.