Principles & Practices of Biodynamic Beekeeping
~Part One~
Getting Started
Recording from 2022

$55.00

Recording from 2022.

Note: You will receive a downloadable PDF with a link to the recording and associated files.

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Description

This is part one of Spikenard’s basic class in biodynamic/sustainable beekeeping methods. This workshop will offer in-depth advice for those who want to have bees and for those who had bees and want to start again.

Participants will learn about the Honeybee as a creative and life-supporting insect and about beekeeping methods that honor her very own needs. We will look at the evolution of beekeeping practices culminating in the present challenges the bees and beekeepers face. Understanding and learning ways and means to overcome the present crisis will be at the core of this workshop. We have to become active for the future of the honeybee worldwide!

Our approach to beekeeping honors the true nature of the honeybee and supports her health and vitality above all else.  In beginning to understand the basis for honeybee health, participants will come away with the basic framework and knowledge to begin their journey as a beekeeper. This workshop covers what you need to know for your first steps in keeping bees.

Principles and Practices of Biodynamic Beekeeping – FULL PROGRAM

Principles and Practices of
Biodynamic Beekeeping

Part One
Principles and Practices of
Biodynamic Beekeeping

Part Two
March 5, 2022 March 12, 2022

Introduction

  • Beekeeping History and the Current State of the Honeybee Crisis
  • Landscape Considerations—the bees and flowers as a unity
  • Tools and Equipment—less is more, know what you need to get started!
  • How to introduce a Package, Nuc, and Swarm
  • Health checks and care for the first 10 days

The Spikenard Method

  • Theory and practice of working with natural wax comb—without foundation
  • Theory and practice of working with natural queens
  • Understanding the hive as an organism
  • Discussion at the hives, bee forage walk
  • Feeding
  • What is biodynamic beekeeping?
Principles and Practices of Biodynamic Beekeeping
Part Three
Principles and Practices of Biodynamic Beekeeping
Part Four
April 2, 2022 August 13, 2022

Health and Hive Management
Spring and Summer Beekeeping

  • Expansion in the hive
  • Swarming—How to catch and work with swarms
  • Understanding health of the honeybee hive
  • Dealing with pests
  • Using a debris tray
  • Beekeeping Tasks from May to August

Health and Hive Management
Fall and Winter Preparation

  • Contraction in the hive
  • 1:1 Ratio
  • Feeding demonstration
  • Hive wrapping/insulation
  • Dynamics of the winter cluster
  • Beekeeping tasks from August to April