Welcome to Episode 19 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Final OA Treatment: One last OA treatment for the year!
• Winter Prep: Buttoning up for winter

In the News:

• Beekeeping 101: Drones and how they help the hive!
• Upcoming Beekeeping Courses: Find your local club and get signed up for your annual beekeeping beginner course.
• Upcoming Holiday Markets: Keep an eye out for your local beekeeper as they brave the cold in the holiday markets.

Tune in to Episode 19 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/

Christmas In the Village Peoria, IL: https://christmasinthevillagepeoria.com/

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Welcome to Episode 18 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Final OA Treatment: One last OA treatment for the year!
• Suit Cleaning: Have an older suit? How do you clean it?

In the News:

• Beekeeping 101: Queen and how she works and what she does!
• Nucs vs Packages: What Steve and Luke think about bees vs packages. We also cover our new offering!

Honeybee Hotline:

• Pollen Bound: What is a pollen bound hive and what do you do with it?

Tune in to Episode 18 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Dr. Jamie Ellis Podcast: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/podcast/

Bob Binnie Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bobbinnie9872

North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Welcome to Episode 9 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Harvesting Honey: We'll discuss the best practices for harvesting honey in Central Illinois, including timing and techniques to ensure a successful yield, and how much we've gotten so far.
• Flow Hives: An exploration of the advantages and disadvantages of using Flow Hives in our region.
• Grafting Queens: Tips and tricks for grafting queens, a crucial skill for managing and expanding your apiary.
• Beekeeping Tours: Sharing our recent experiences and insights from our beekeeping tours.

In the News:

• The Indoor Farmer Podcast: Luke recently guest-starred on The Indoor Farmer podcast, where he shared insights on urban beekeeping and his journey from engineering to beekeeping.
• Michigan State VSH Queens: Exciting developments from Michigan State University's research on Varroa Sensitive Hygiene (VSH) queens, which could revolutionize mite resistance in hives.
• UBeeO Test Kits: A look at the new UBeeO test kits designed to help beekeepers easily monitor hive health and detect issues early.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Queenless Hives in July: We answer viewer questions on how to determine if a hive has gone queenless in July, including signs to look for and steps to take to address the issue.

Droning On:

• Mite Checks: As we prepare for winter, we'll discuss the importance of mite checks and the methods we use to keep our hives healthy.
• Winter Treatments: An overview of the treatments we recommend to ensure your bees are well-protected against the cold months ahead.
• Feeding Hives: Strategies for feeding your hives to build up their strength and resources for the upcoming season.

Tune in to Episode 9 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your burning questions.

 

Indoor Farmer Locals Channel - https://theindoorfarmer.locals.com/landing/video

Indoor Farmer Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Waylontheindoorfarmer/

Sustainable Beekeepers of Michigan - https://sbgmi.org/queenportal

UBeeO - https://opterabees.com/

 

Join us in this episode of beekeeping buddies where we talk about the challenges of moving hives, our flow hive experience, what we do when we find EFB, Queen Grafting, upcoming events and more with Steve and Luke as we talk about beekeeping in the midwest!

 

Mann Lake QC100 - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/queen-rearing/complete-queen-rearing-kit/?sku=QC100&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw-O6zBhASEiwAOHeGxVxc1pSIr9FpaXF2iAwi2a4jqNpCHy5PyGYmNA6vk9a5vmgpc4XM8hoC2OkQAvD_BwE

 

HiveoRama - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089320765104

 

 

Want to support beekeeping buddies? Consider a contribution on our Patreon:

https://patreon.com/BeekeepingBuddies?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

Join us, Steve and Luke, your friendly neighborhood beekeeping enthusiasts, as we embark on an exciting journey into the world of honeybees, hives, and all things buzzing! We have our first beekeeping buddy Valerie Ross on our episode! We talk about what it is like to be a beginner beekeeper!

With over a decade of combined experience in beekeeping, we're no strangers to the sweet, sticky world of apiaries. From our humble beginnings as hobbyist beekeepers to our thriving bee yards nestled in the heart of Peoria, IL, we've seen it all – from swarms to honey harvests, and everything in between.

In this episode, we'll take you into our personal bee yards and remember what it was like being a beginner beekeeper, sharing the latest updates and insights from our buzzing colonies and our grafting. Whether it's the thrill of spotting a new queen or the challenges of managing hive health, or even the heartbreak of losing a hive, we'll give you an up-close look at the joys and responsibilities of beekeeping.

If you have beekeeping questions you might want answered, feel free to send us an email at beekkeepingbuddies@gmail.com

AFB Vaccine - https://dalan.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw65-zBhBkEiwAjrqRMIYmpFDlPuKtm52L_gQXnm-ExoS4r_s2T_Yndv9Yknd-Dqa0yiMNiBoCsHcQAvD_BwE

Sunflower Pollen Benefits - https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-32681-y#:~:text=We%20discovered%20that%20sunflower%20(Helianthus,the%20potential%20for%20broad%20anti

Frame Being Drawn Video - https://youtu.be/SZ339p8kXSw

In Episode 6 of Beekeeping Buddies, hosts Steven Schmidt and Luke Harvey take listeners on a comprehensive journey through several key aspects of beekeeping. The episode kicks off with an in-depth discussion on Queen Rearing, where Steven and Luke share their expertise on raising healthy queens and the critical role these queens play in hive health and productivity.

The duo then transitions into the topic of Nectar Flow, explaining its significance and offering strategies for beekeepers to maximize honey production during this crucial period as we transition to white clover. 

They also tackle Hive Swarming, providing valuable tips on managing and preventing swarms to maintain a stable and productive hive environment and what is going on in the midwest.

Listeners will also learn about best practices in Honey Collection, from the ideal timing to effective techniques for harvesting honey. A common issue, Queens Laying in Mediums, is addressed, with Steven and Luke offering practical solutions to manage and resolve this challenge.

The episode delves into Swarm Collection, where Steven and Luke share their experiences and methods for safely capturing swarms, turning potential problems into opportunities for hive expansion. They also evaluate Package Queen Quality, giving insights on how to assess and ensure the quality of queens received in bee packages.

For those interested in advanced beekeeping techniques, the hosts introduce Queen Grafting, providing a beginner-friendly overview of this method for raising new queens.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a fun segment on Apitourism, highlighting a local destination covered in the farm bureu magazine and how that might tie into your local small business.

Join Steven and Luke in Episode 6 for an hour of engaging and informative beekeeping conversation, perfect for both novice and experienced beekeepers.

Frame Queen Cells Removed From

Cells Stitched into a Frame

Final Cell Stitched into a Frame

Come join Steve and Luke and hear us talk about complications with our package installations, Luke's beekeeping trip to Japan, a busy swarm season (including a birthday swarm), and a recent cutout we completed.

 

Steve's Favorite Nuc Box - https://blueskybeesupply.com/polystyrene-medium-6-frame-nuc-kit-unassembled/

Luke's Favorite Nuc Box - https://www.betterbee.com/nuc-boxes/lyson-w1130-nuc-with-latches.asp

Queen Calculator - https://www.iowabees.com/gc

Ginza Honeybee Project - https://tokyogreenspace.wordpress.com/2009/08/06/ginza-honey-bee-project/

Book your own trip - https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14129573-d9865132-Reviews-Ginza_Honey_Bee_Tour-Ginza_Chuo_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html

Steve's Farm Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@schmism

Riverview Road Apiary - https://riverviewroadapiary.com/

Riverview Road Apiary Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@riverviewroadapiary8486

 

Welcome to a bonus episode. While Luke is overseas looking at Apis Cerana, we needed to discuss some important legislation and some great articles by commercial beekeeper Charles Linder. Listen to is discuss beekeeping lobbiests, the why we need to be comcerned about the FDA becoming involved in our miticide treatment process. We also discuss splits, and how to split with medium frames.

 

American Bee Journal - https://americanbeejournal.com/

Illinois State Beekeeping Association - https://www.ilsba.com/

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Association - https://hoibees.org/

Central Illinois Beekeepers Association - https://cibabees.org/cibawp/

Riverview Road Apiary - https://riverviewroadapiary.com/

 

 

Join us in Episode 3 where we talk about some early spring losses, when we should be putting out hive traps, VSH Queens and their prices, Bee Expo and available videos as well as the upcoming Hiveorama, introduce our new product review corner, and answer some questions from the honeybee hotline.

Thank you again for joining us and we look forward to buzzing along with you again soon.

Hiveorama August 10th, 2024 - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089320765104

Bee Smart Inner Cover - https://www.beesmartdesigns.com/product-list/inner-hive-cover

Cornell Bait Hive Plans - https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/6a183063-f398-4552-b4dd-f14a9488faed/content

 

What's going on with our late winter temperatures? We talk about our very pleasant and strange very early spring temperatures, a virtual beekeeping conference, how do we get to varroa sensitive hives, our thoughts on making a queen builder, UBeeO test kits, the Apimayne hive type, beekeeping in the news, and the honeybee hotline!

 

Sustainable Beekeepers Guild of Michigan - https://sbgmi.org/ 

Illinois Queen Initiative- https://illinoisqueeninitiative.com/

UBeeO Testing - https://opterabees.com/

Apimayne Hive Type - https://apimaye-usa.com/

New York Times Don't Keep Bees Article - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/08/19/business/beekeeping-companies-colony-collapse.html

Schmit Farm (Steve) - https://www.facebook.com/SchmidtFarm2/

Riverview Road Apiary (Luke) - www.riverviewroadapiary.com

Beekeeping Buddies - www.beekeepingbuddies.org

 

Join us, Steve and Luke, your friendly neighborhood beekeeping enthusiasts, as we embark on an exciting journey into the world of honeybees, hives, and all things buzzing! In this inaugural episode, we're thrilled to introduce ourselves and give you a peek into what "Beekeeping Buddies" is all about.

With over a decade of combined experience in beekeeping, we're no strangers to the sweet, sticky world of apiaries. From our humble beginnings as hobbyist beekeepers to our thriving bee yards nestled in the heart of Peoria, IL, we've seen it all – from swarms to honey harvests, and everything in between.

In this episode, we'll take you into our personal bee yards, sharing the latest updates and insights from our buzzing colonies. Whether it's the thrill of spotting a new queen or the challenges of managing hive health, or even the heartbreak of losing a hive, we'll give you an up-close look at the joys and responsibilities of beekeeping.

If you have beekeeping questions you might want answered, feel free to send us an email at beekkeepingbuddies@gmail.com

Welcome to Episode 17 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Reading for Winter: Feeding hives, making fondant and candy boards for winter,
• How to Make Candy Board Video: https://youtu.be/3UI0BGBJs8M?si=eMji3lGv4ezXNaXy 

In the News:

• Beekeeping 101: Workers and what they do in the hive.
• AFB Vaccine: AFB and how that is passed on to the queen bee.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Collapsed Hives: Luke and Steve talk about a collapsed hive, what was found and our thoughts on why it failed.

Honeybee Biology Deep Dive: How does the honeybee immune system actually work?

Tune in to Episode 17 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

 

Welcome to Episode 16 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Dry October: A dry hot October, still

In the News:

• DMZ Honey: NY Times article on a beekeeper in Korea

Droning On:

• Deep Dive Into Midwest Cutouts: Luke and Steve talk about what tools, time, and knowledge you need before attempting a cutout.

Tune in to Episode 16 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

American Bee Journal: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Bumblebee Cutout: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiuCkPap2V4

 

Welcome to Episode 15 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Dry October: A dry hot October. What do we do, anything we should not be doing? 
• Fall Honey Stock: How do our hives look for winter? How are our flow hives doing? Is there anything we can do right now?
• Upcoming Cutouts: Looks like Luke and Steve will have some upcoming cutouts... will be covered extensively in episode 16.

In the News:

• Legislative Update: Check out October ABH for the Legislative Update in FIFRA. Laws are being passed that will impact our ability to treat hives.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Bald Faced Hornets: Good, bad, or ugly?

Droning On:

• Asters In Bloom: Should we be feeding still with Asters in bloom?

Tune in to Episode 14 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

American Bee Journal: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

 

Welcome to Episode 14 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• More Unusual Weather: A dry hot September. What do we do, anything we should not be doing? 
• Fall Honey Stock: How do our hives look for winter? How are our flow hives doing? Is there anything we can do right now?
• To Insulate or Not to Insulate: Steve and Luke share what we do, and what we have seen in our hives.
• Starting Hive Setup: We share what we would use for a hive setup for a new beekeeper.

In the News:

• New voarra treatments: Great news in the beekeeping world as new treatments are being developed.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Taking Losses Now: What do I do with my weak hives?

Droning On:

• New Beekeeper Preparation: New beekeeper preparation.

Tune in to Episode 14 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Formic Pro: https://nodglobal.com/formic-pro/

VarroxSan: https://www.dadant.com/catalog/varroxsan-60-pack?srsltid=AfmBOooTSfAsRCfkifSXTaadHyqugCQbyf6jUD1F3JED6VhLQ1F0p3mk

Terra Vera: https://terravera.com/resources#bee-colony-health

Welcome to Episode 13 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Winter Feeding: Are we still feeding? Should you be?
• Winterizing: What do we do and why do we do it? What does the fat body actually do? How do we set up our hives?
• Hive Beetles... in Illinios?: Luke is seeeing a strange uptick in hive beetles. What is he doing for it?
• Taking Fall Honey: Are we taking fall honey? Problems we are seeing.
• Queen Transfer: Better queen acceptance with a newspaper combine?
• Bald Faced Hornets: What do you do with them? How to remove a hive.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Crystalized Honey: How do you solve this issue?

Droning On:

• Wax Processing: What do we do with our wax?
• Propolis Harvesting: Do  you do it? What do you do with it?

Tune in to Episode 13 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your burning questions.

 

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Nayborhood Farms: https://www.nayborhoodfarm.com/

Blackbeard Canning (Hot Honey): https://bbcanning.com/

Formic Pro: https://nodglobal.com/formic-pro/

Oxylic Acid Vaporizer: https://oxavap.com/

Other Oxylic Acid Vaporizer: https://lorobbees.com/products/instantvap-18v?srsltid=AfmBOor5vbx9wFihuPh1mSUXocUAlkJCMqfUADcONwm7YCXVanprA570

Bannanas In Beehives: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FrVf6_sIujaID-txJiUI33hlVV_pklpg/view

Cutout Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp-x2AOCEBc

Welcome to Episode 12 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Winter Feeding: When should feeding for your bees start? How much should the hive weigh?
• Alaska Beekeeping: What was Luke's trip like? How do the bees work during the summer? Do they survive winter?

In the News:

• Talking to Non-Beeks: Talking to non-beeks... is it a great idea?
• Talking to the Club: Steve speaks to the HOIBA beekeeping club about mites and how VSH works. 

Honeybee Hotline:

• Know Your Mites!: How we treat for mites.

Droning On:

• Cutouts: Commercial property cutout adventure. Link below!

Tune in to Episode 12 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your burning questions.

 

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Formic Pro: https://nodglobal.com/formic-pro/

Oxylic Acid Vaporizer: https://oxavap.com/

Other Oxylic Acid Vaporizer: https://lorobbees.com/products/instantvap-18v?srsltid=AfmBOor5vbx9wFihuPh1mSUXocUAlkJCMqfUADcONwm7YCXVanprA570

Bannanas In Beehives: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FrVf6_sIujaID-txJiUI33hlVV_pklpg/view

Cutout Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp-x2AOCEBc

 

Welcome to Episode 11 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Fancy Quees: Luke picked up some fancy queens from a local breeder.  Come listen to what we have.
• Honey Tasting: A honey tasting was held in attemps to make apitourism more common. Listen to what we tried, our thoughts on what to taste and how to best run one.
• Queen Rearing: Two cutouts scheduled for the coming weeks!

In the News:

• Hiveorama: New on the conference located in St. Louis,  Missouri.
• Bananas and the Hive: Bananas are... good for a beehive? Listen to the research we found on this twist. 

Honeybee Hotline:

• Small Hive Beetle Slimed Frame Solutions: We revisit what to do about slimed frames.

Droning On:

• Bee Trips: Luke is headed to the Northern Frontier to see how Alaska beekeepers handle hives over winter.
• Mite Treatment Class: Steve volunteers to lead a course on how to treat your mites.
• Retirement Class: Steve gets voluntold to teach a 30 minute class on honey.

Tune in to Episode 11 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your burning questions.

 

Hiveorama - https://hiveorama.square.site/

Eventbrite - www.eventbrite.com

Riverview Road Apiary - www.riverviewroadapiary.com

Honey Tasting and Farm Tour - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/honey-tasting-and-apiary-honeybee-farm-tour-tickets-926940553147?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Welcome to Episode 10 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Harvesting Honey: We'll discuss the best practices for harvesting honey in Central Illinois, including timing and techniques to ensure a successful yield, and how much we've gotten so far.
• Beekeeping Tours: Sharing our recent experiences and insights from our beekeeping tours.
• Queen Rearing: An update about our first real year of queen rearing in our apiaries.
• Hive Cutouts: Our thoughts and experiences on a cutout of a tree that a storm knocked down.

In the News:

• Hiveorama: Steve will plan on being at this small, but awesome conference located in St. Louis,  Missouri. 

Honeybee Hotline:

• Small Hive Beetle Problems: We answer viewer questions on how to deal with small hive beetles and slimed hives.
• How to Approach Apitourism: Want to teach people about bees? Maybe host a honey tasting? We cover how we set up our events!
• How to Store Frames: What we do to store our frames for winter.

Droning On:

• Mite Checks: As we prepare for winter, we'll discuss the importance of mite checks and the methods we use to keep our hives healthy.
• Winter Treatments: An overview of the treatments we recommend to ensure your bees are well-protected against the cold months ahead.
• Feeding Hives: Strategies and an experiment for feeding your hives to build up their strength and resources for the upcoming season.

Tune in to Episode 10 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your burning questions.

 

Hiveorama - https://hiveorama.square.site/

Sustainable Beekeepers of Michigan - https://sbgmi.org/queenportal

Eventbrite - www.eventbrite.com

Riverview Road Apiary - www.riverviewroadapiary.com

Honey Tasting and Farm Tour - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/honey-tasting-and-apiary-honeybee-farm-tour-tickets-926940553147?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

 

Welcome to Episode 28 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Purchasing Hives: Steve buys some hives from a local beekeeper who is chasing her dreams!
• Queen Hatching Experience: Steve finds a unique experience working the club beehives, and some lessons learned.
• Oops: Luke makes a mistake with one of his hives!
• Nectar Flow: Nectar is coming in so fast it's difficult to keep up.
• Swarm Captures: Ideas for catching swarms and how we go about it this busy season.

In the News:

• Bumblebees Have a Flower Preference: Study shows bumblebee pressure with pollination is causing some flowers shift from red to yellow.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Discord Server Live: https://discord.gg/SzCUt7yZ come talk to Steve and Luke and make some beekeeping buddies!
• City Ordinances: Ever wanted to change your city ordinances? Luke and Steve talk about how we did it!

Droning On:

• Queen Rearing Course: Luke and Steve work on their queen rearing course.
• Moving Bees To Clover: Trying out moving queens to clover.
• Oxylic Acid Pads: Luke makes and is trying out OA pads for his hives.

Bonus Content:

• Riverivew Road Apiary Needs a Truck?

 

Tune in to Episode 28 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Welcome to Episode 27 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Swarms: Luke and Steve continue to pick up swarms!
• Splits: It's that time of year to make your splits. Luke and Steve discuss how we do that.
• Moving Bees to Clover Farm: Luke and Steve discuss moving some bees.
• Steve's Purchasing Adventures: What is involved when buying someone's hives?

In the News:

• Honeybee Losses: Will beekeeping have to change with the times?

Droning On:

• Hive Checks: What we are seeing in our hives.
• Queen Grafting: Queen grafting classes.

 

Tune in to Episode 27 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

 

Welcome to Episode 26 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Nuc Pickup and Dispersion Adventure: Luke and Steve pick up some nucs!
• House Cutout: What happens to bees where they are not supposed to be?

In the News:

• Honeybee Losses: Honeybee losses hit the mainstream!

Droning On:

• Hive Checks: What we are seeing in our hives.
• Queen Grafting: Queen grafting classes.

 

Tune in to Episode 26 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

Canadian Beekeeper Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TqtT4YA7zs

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

 

Welcome to Episode 25 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Spring Weather: Cold weather keeping you out of your hives?
• Feed or Not: Should we be feeding still?
• Speaking to Groups: How and when do we talk about bees?
• First Dandelions!
• Getting Nucs: What is the process of getting 50 nucs of bees?

In the News:

• Tariffs: How will the tariffs impact beekeepers?
• Pollination Services: Do farmers understand pollination requirements?
• North American Honeybee Expo: Luke shares some details about the Expo

Honeybee Hotline:

• Electrical Flower Discharge: Bees can see electrical charges?
•  Survival Rates and Treating with Oxalic Acid: Should we be changing the way we treat or bees?

Droning On:

• Sneaking in Hive Checks: Find some nice warm weather to check your hives.
• Classes and Nuc Pickup: We talk about nuc pickup and classes.

Tune in to Episode 25 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

Canadian Beekeeper Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TqtT4YA7zs

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

 

 

Welcome to Episode 24 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Spring Treatment: OA treatment in our hives.
• Canadian Beekeeper Blog Breakdown: Mite count theory that holds some water.
• To Feed or Not to Feed: What we are we feeding and how?
• Bees are Working: Are the girls able to get out and about?
• Do We Reverse Hives: Steve and Luke talk about if we do reversals?

In the News:

• Grafting Queens: We review an meeting we went about grafting queens.
• Queen Grafting Course: Luke and Steve will be running a queen building course.
• Feral Bees: How did the US bees do this winter? The news is not great.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Selling Wax: What do you sell wax for?
• When Can I Graft: Luke and Steve discuss when to graft.

Droning On:

• Nuc Delivery
• Clover Nectar Grab

Tune in to Episode 24 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

Canadian Beekeeper Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TqtT4YA7zs

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Welcome to Episode 23 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Spring Feeding: In order to build up our hives for spring, we are feeding our bees.
• Winter Losses: How did we do with our hives? Steve and Luke report.

In the News:

• Why Are Poor Queens Poor (ABJ Article): Reviewing the article in this month ABJ.
• North American Bee Survey: How did the US bees do this winter? The news is not great.

Honeybee Hotline:

• German Dark Forest, Arizona Mesquite Desert Wildflower, and French Lavender Honey: Our thoughts on some different honey types we were able to try.

Tune in to Episode 23 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Welcome to Episode 22 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

Around the Yard:

• Break in the Winter: A break gives us a peek at some of Steve's hives.
• Yucatan Honeybee Update: Luke went to visit some Mayans in the Yucatan Peninsula and got to work some Africanized bees, and also visted some Apis Melapona bees!
• HOIBA Meeting Speaker: Joe Curless is a farmer who is working with clover as a cover crop for his farmland that keeps weeds down, lowers erosion, and improving pollinator habitat.

In the News:

• Dalan Animal Health: We get to talk to Everett Hendrixon from Dalan Animal Health about their AFB vaccine!

Honeybee Hotline:

• Wanting to Exit: How do you exit from beekeeping and what to do with your equipment and bees.
• Expanding Your Apiary: Our opinions on how to expand your apiary.

Tune in to Episode 22 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Riverivew Road Apiary: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Helath: https://dalan.com/

• Contact Information
  • Phone Number: 941-549-4971
  • Email: ehendrixon@dalananimalhealth.com

American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Ian Steppler Vaccination Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz_DBItMu3w

Winter Losses 2024-2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGxjbZPQExQ

 

Welcome to Episode 21 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area.

North American Honeybee Expo: Widgets we purchased, reivew of Cory Stevens and if we are going to try instrumental insemination of queens, and Randy Oliver's review on varroa mites.

Propola Hive Body: https://www.premierbeeproducts.com/shop/hives?gad_source=1

Apimaybe Bottom Board: https://apimaye-usa.com/collections/apimaye-for-wooden-hives/products/bottom-board-for-wooden-beehives

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Cory Stevens: https://www.stevensbeeco.com/

Dr. Jamie Ellis Podcast: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/podcast/

Bob Binnie Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bobbinnie9872

North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Welcome to Episode 20 of Beekeeping Buddies. The podcast where Steve and Luke talk about beekeeping in the Central Illinois area. This Episode we are going to talk to our shopping special and ideas we have for beekeepers this holiday season! Please note there are Amazon Affiliate Links here that give us 3% of the overall purchase price if you do click on any of these links.

 

9 Frame Spacers

• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m00874-9-frame-spacers-each
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZKrg9F
• Amazon Spacer Tool (not recommended) - https://amzn.to/4gKH1EA

Refractometer

• Amazon - https://amzn.to/49MiInb
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m005961-refractometer-standard

Ez Mite Check

• Amazon - https://amzn.to/404LPPi
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/varroa-easy-check-m014908
• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/varroa-easycheck/

Mouse Guard/Entrance Reducer

• Luke's Choice Amazon - https://amzn.to/4fvn5US
• Steve's Choice Amazon - https://amzn.to/41Km7RB

Bee Veil

• Amazon - https://amzn.to/49JkJRb
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/v01108-hat-veil-pullover-combo 

Hive Tool

• Luke's Choice Amazon - https://amzn.to/4iDtiRw
• Luke's Choice Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/deluxe-hive-tool?_pos=4&_sid=9973edb39&_ss=r
• Luke's Choice Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hive-tools/multifunctional-hive-tool/
• Steve's Choice Amazon - https://amzn.to/4goPIof
• Steve's Choice Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/j-hook-hive-tool?_pos=1&_sid=9973edb39&_ss=r
• Steve's Choice Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m00856-j-hook-hive-tool
• Steve's Choice Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/beekeeping-tools-more/hive-tools/10-1-2-frame-lifter-and-scraper-hive-tool/

Queen Rearing Kit

• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/queen-rearing/complete-queen-rearing-kit/?srsltid=AfmBOoomfcINdTDn3cWnU_BC596ITxtNr9-dChLdGbJrihOxZ0w-I5Bq
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3DtwXS4
• Hillco - 
• Dadant -

Grafting Tool

• • Master Grafting Tool (US version)
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m00654-master-grafting-tool
• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/queen-rearing/master-queen-grafting-tool/
  • Simple Grafting Tool
• Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/simple-grafting-tool?_pos=1&_sid=47f71bcda&_ss=r
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m01941-plastic-grafting-tool
• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/queen-rearing/chinese-grafting-tool/
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/4fudBcw
  • German Grafting Tool
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3P4s6sU
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m01942-stainless-grafting-tool-each
• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/queen-rearing/metal-german-grafting-tool/

JZ BZ Kit

• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3VKonEH

Candle Mold

• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/search-results/?search_query=candle%20mold
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3BzDCcJ

Lip Balm Kits

• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZP2HIy
• Luke's 50 Kit Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZIY0A1
• Pyrex Measuring Cup - https://amzn.to/3VNYfJ6
• Double Boiler - https://amzn.to/4frHWbF

Bee Suit

• Hillco Vented Suit (need baseball hat) - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/featherlite-ventilated-beekeeper-jacket?_pos=1&_sid=4707b1863&_ss=r
• Hillco Vented Suit (round veil) - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/featherlite-ventilated-beekeeper-jacket-round-veil?_pos=2&_sid=4707b1863&_ss=r
• Dadant Vented Suit - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/economy-vent-jacket
• Amazon Mann Lake - https://amzn.to/3P4ypwv

Car Year End Detail

• Favorite Local Detailer - https://pioneerautocenteranddetailing.com/

Smoker Fuel

• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m00808-40-lb-wood-pellet-smoker-fuel
• Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/burlap-smoker-fuel-12-pack?_pos=1&_sid=d09a6b2ab&_ss=r
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/4foetPT

Smoker Fuel Bucket Screw On Lid

• • Smoker Fuel
• Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/burlap-smoker-fuel-12-pack?_pos=1&_sid=f1bf81259&_ss=r
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m00808-40-lb-wood-pellet-smoker-fuel
• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/beekeeping-tools-more/1/2-lb-smoker-fuel/
• Amazon - https://amzn.to/41HCePO
• Screw On Bucket Lids - https://amzn.to/4gJKdjB

Propant Torch Kit

• Menards - https://www.menards.com/main/tools/torches-soldering-tools/mag-torch-reg-self-light-propane-torch-kit/mt525/p-1571380065594-c-8533.htm?exp=false
• Home Depot - https://www.homedepot.com/p/Bernzomatic-Utility-Torch-Kit-with-14-1-oz-Propane-Gas-Cylinder-and-Adjustable-Flame-WK2301/202539561

Bee Cozy - Help keep your hive warm this winter season. Helps keep the hive temperature consistent.

• Amazon Link -= https://amzn.to/41Jq0WR

Heated Honey Uncapping Knife

• Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZOyk52
• Dadant - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/m003391-speed-king-knife-220-volt
• Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/heated-uncapping-knife?_pos=1&_sid=35a5e8172&_ss=r
• Mann Lake - https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-uncapping-tanks-tools/uncapping-knife-north-american-model/

Beekeeping Journal

• American Bee Journal - https://americanbeejournal.com/
• Bee Culture - https://www.beeculture.com/

Bee Book Ideas

• Honeybee Democracy - https://amzn.to/4gjgHkW
• Piping Hot Bees and Boisterous Buzz-Runners - https://amzn.to/4gmJQM1
• Following the Bees - https://amzn.to/4gESF3u
• Beekeeper Bible - https://amzn.to/4iKVVfG
• Langstroth's Hive and the Honeybee - https://amzn.to/49LgRiq

Paul Kelly's Bee Belt

• https://www.dancingbeeequipmentusa.com/products/bee-belt?srsltid=AfmBOop_1eKlY4dnVjrX34TqaCS8zrWn0mzpyRM49WCvwNNDx76ryX1X
• https://hiddenhollowhoney.com/products/bee-belt?srsltid=AfmBOoqqMj5ckSinlPiapyNroYr8N0Rjpp1IoF3bPveBp3CeI0L_WbBj
• Leather Softener - https://amzn.to/4fx5xI2

Flir Camera

• We suggest the Flir One Edge Bluetooth - https://amzn.to/3ZKuTMP

Nuc

• Riverview Road Apiary - https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc
• Pro Nuc - https://www.dadant.com/catalog/pro-nuc-box-m01515

Swarm Trap

• Hillco - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/swarm-trap?_pos=1&_psq=swarm&_ss=e&_v=1.0
• Hillco Swarm Commander - https://www.hillco.buzz/products/swarm-commander-1oz-gel?_pos=3&_psq=swarm&_ss=e&_v=1.0
• Amazon Swarm Commander - https://amzn.to/400QYrU

Honey Harvest Consumables

• Bee Quick Amazon - https://amzn.to/3BA8Wbl
• Honey Robber (foul smelling but effective) - https://www.brawes-bee-farm.com/products/honey-robber
• Hillco Escape Board -  https://www.hillco.buzz/products/triangle-bee-escape-board-10-frame?_pos=1&_psq=escape+boa&_ss=e&_v=1.0
• Amazon Escape Board - https://amzn.to/4gJ4tlA

Beekeeping Classes

• HOIBA Class ($65) - https://hoibees.org/membership/
• CIBA Class - https://drive.google.com/file/d/10RG_WuQcO2cCR743TB5oNPYDKpVjF4qo/view
• Riverview Road Apiary - https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/fall-2022-apprenticeship

Managed Hive Program

• Riverview Road Apiary Beefriend - https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/honey-bee-stewardship

Beekeeping Vacation Package

• Cuba Bee Tours - http://www.cubabeetours.com/

 

Beekeeping Buddies Email - beekeepingbuddies@gmail.com

Around the Yard:

• Staying Cool: Luke and Steve talk about the struggles of staying cool in the bee yard.
• Time to Feed?: Is it already time to feed our bees for winter?

Honeybee Hotline:

• Hive Treatments: We talk mabout when to treat, what we are treating with, and how useful are the new OA boards?
• Queen Introduction: Our tips and tricks on introducing a new queen.

Droning On:

• Extracting Honey: Luke and Steve are busy getting ready to extract honey.
• Problems Running a Beekeeping Business: Luke shares some of his struggles running a beekeeping business.

Tune in to Episode 32 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Virgin Queen Raising: Luke and Steve talk about raising some virgin VSH Queens.
• Purdue Queen Rearing: Luke takes the Purdue queen rearing course.
• Going Through Hives: Luke and Steve talk about how we go through hives.

In the News:

• Hive Cutout: Luke and Steve talk about their first cutout 11 years ago!

Droning On:

• Extracting Honey: Luke and Steve are busy getting ready to extract honey.
• Master Beekeeper Course: Luke talks more about the master beekeeper course.
• Flow Hives: Luke and Steve talk about our flow hives.

Tune in to Episode 31 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Harvesting Honey:Luke and Steve have harvested honey.
• Grafting: Luke continues to graft!
• Queens Obtained: Queens purchased from Kobe Apiary for the Dalan Animal Vaccine
• Adding Supers: Continues to add supers to hives.
• Inspector Visits: Our local inspector came to visit Luke!

In the News:

• Field Day: What is a club field day and should your local club have one?

Droning On:

• Purdue Queen Grafting: Luke is headed to Purdue to check out some queen grafting.
• Hive Cutouts: Luke and Steve have some more cutouts coming up.
• Beekeeping Insurance: Luke is finally insured (again) for the cutouts.

Tune in to Episode 30 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Expanding Products: Riverview Road Apiary adds some employees and new products!
• Pollen Tasting: Luke and Steve try some locally collected pollen and let you know how it is.
• How to Harvest  and Prepare Pollen: Luke and Steve talk about pollen collection and preparation.
• Nectar Flow: Nectar is coming in so fast it's difficult to keep up.
• Swarm Captures: Ideas for catching swarms and how we go about it this busy season.

In the News:

• USDA Concludes Cause of Dieoffs in 2024/2025: Luke and Steve review study on what happened to the US bees this last winter and why the dieoffs were so high. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.05.28.656706v1.full

Honeybee Hotline:

• Discord Server Live: https://discord.gg/SzCUt7yZ come talk to Steve and Luke and make some beekeeping buddies!
• Rewaxing Frames: What we use to rewax our frames.
• Queenless Colonies: Do you add brood from another hive when I add a queen?
• How Many Queen Cells: How many grafted queen cells do you add to a hive?
• Honeybound: How to deal with honeybound hives.
• How to Move Bees Into Drawn Supers: How we get bees to move into drawn supers.
• How to Fix a Drone Laying Queen Coming Out of Winter
• How to Requeen a Large, Mean, Hive
• Where is the Colony Cliff?

Droning On:

• Honey, Treating, and Spring Splits: Luke and Steve talk about what we are doing.

Tune in to Episode 29 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Pulling Honey: Luke and Steve talk about the struggles of staying cool in the bee yard.
• Fall Prep: Is it already time to feed our bees for winter? What treatments do we use?

In the News

• Big News From Luke

Honeybee Hotline:

• How Long Does a Field Bee Spend Away: We talk mabout when to treat, what we are treating with, and how useful are the new OA boards?
• Queen Introduction Problem: Our tips and tricks on introducing a new queen.
• Laying Worker vs New Queen: How do you tell the difference between a laying worker and a newly mated queen?
• Doomed to Always Have Hive Beetles?: If you have hive beetles once are they always at that hive?

 

Tune in to Episode 33 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Dry Midwest Fall: Fall is here, the hot and dry have not gone away.
• Details on Fall Feeding: Recipe for Luke's fall feed is: 4.5 lbs sugar, 0.5 lbs pollen sub, 7 oz water mixed together with a mixer of some sort and put into ziplock baggie.
• How to Know if to Feed: Steve and Luke talk about how we measure hives to know if they need feed.
• Start Thinking of Nucs: Luke and Steve suggest you start thinking about nucs for 2026.

In the News

• Vandescona Mite Treatment: dsRNA treatment for mites?!

Honeybee Hotline:

• Stick Up Your Hands!: How to manage robbing.
• Again?: How long to wait until I place a hive where one had been robbed?
• What to do with a small hive: 3 frame hive, can it make it through winter?

Droning On:

• Fall Festivals: Luke talks about fall festivals, and what we make
• Cutouts: Steve and Luke talk about troubles with cutouts!

 

Tune in to Episode 36 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Dry Midwest Fall: Fall is mostly here, but is sure is dry.
• Details on Another Cutout: Luke and Steve have another fall cutout.
• Luke Returns From Spain: Luke goes to Spain... and finds few pollinators?
• Steve and Luke Review Spainish Honey: We review some honey from Spain I brought back.

In the News

• Varroa Mites make it to S. Australia: Varroa mites are now spreading to S. Australia.
• HMF Correction: Luke has a short correction to HMF.

Honeybee Hotline:

• Bee Identification: Variation inside a honeybee hive.
• Comb Color: Why is there different comb colors?
• What to do with a small hive: 3 frame hive, can it make it through winter?

Droning On:

• What are we doing in the next few weeks?
• What to do with honey frames?

 

Tune in to Episode 35 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

Around the Yard:

• Cooler Weather: Fall has started peeking around the corner. What do we do?
• Honey Harvest for Summer: Luke and Steve take the last of our summer honey.
• Open Feeding: Is it the time for open feeding yet?
• Illinois USDA: Luke and Steve are working with the USDA... providing small hive beetles.

In the News

• Newly Engineered Yeast Makes Better Pollen: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09431-y
• Honeybee Disease Impacts Flight: It appers that different diseases impact how far our honeybees will fly. https://phys.org/news/2025-08-hidden-honey-bee-viruses-flight.html

Honeybee Hotline:

• Can You Feed Maple Syrup: We talk about if this is a problem!
• Taking Honey Leaving Deep and Medium: What does it take to overwinter in a deep and a medium? Are there other issues?

Droning On:

• What are we doing in the next few weeks?
• Luke's New Trip: Luke goes overseas to check out an overseas apiary!

 

Tune in to Episode 34 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions.

 

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

It's the Beekeeping Buddies Halloween Special! Luke and Steve dive into the spookier side of beekeeping from bees starting WW3, to the mornful swarm, frakenbees and more! We'll talk about our fall preparations and some interesting chunk comb we were able to sample, and answer some Honeybee Hotline questions. We hope you'll tune in as our buddy this episode!

 

North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

We have broken 4,000 listens and want to thank everyone for taking some time to listen to us talk about our passion, honey bees.

For this episode we take a break from the normal format of the show to interview a Beekeeping Buddy of our own, Randy McCaffrey better known as the 628 Dirt Rooster! We talk about beekeeping, how different areas do things, and learn the important lesson of how hobby beekeeping is a way... of... life! We hope you all enjoy this special episode and thanks again for being a buddy!

628 Dirt Rooster Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@628DirtRooster

North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY

Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/

How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ

The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/

Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8

Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq

Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc

Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/

Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5

Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/

Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf