In the world’s longevity hotspots, such as the Caucasus region in Russia, beekeepers are known for their long lives. A retrospective study by the French National Institute for Agricultural Research found that none of the 1,000 beekeepers surveyed had died of cancer. Beekeeping is not only a hobby for health enthusiasts but also a pastime for celebrities and politicians. Romania’s former president, Ceaușescu, was a beekeeping enthusiast with his own apiary. In old Beijing, residents often kept bees in their courtyards, enjoying the benefits of fresh honey and a lively environment.
The Benefits of Beekeeping:
Beekeepers have access to fresh, pure bee products, free from pollution. Excess products can be shared with friends or sold, providing additional income. In small towns and rural areas, bees have shorter foraging distances, leading to higher honey yields and greater profits. The author, who has kept bees on their balcony for years, has not only enjoyed significant economic benefits but also found relief from chronic arthritis.
Tips for Successful Beekeeping:
1. Choosing the Right Bee Species: In regions like Fujian, the Chinese honeybee (Apis cerana) is preferable. They are agile, resistant to diseases, and can forage from scattered nectar sources, making them ideal for home beekeeping.
2. The Best Season to Purchase Bees: While spring is traditionally recommended, autumn can also be an excellent time to purchase bees, as the climate is cool and nectar sources are abundant.
3. Selecting a Healthy Colony: Look for colonies with large, active worker bees carrying pollen and nectar. A good queen bee should be robust, with a fresh appearance and consistent egg-laying patterns. The hive should have plenty of new or semi-new combs with well-organized cells and sufficient honey reserves.
4. Choosing the Right Location: A south-facing balcony is ideal, followed by an east-facing one. Avoid north-facing balconies, which can be too cold in winter, and west-facing ones, which can be too hot in the afternoon. Ensure the area is free from strong winds and direct light at night, and do not use pesticides near the hive.
5. Moving Beehives: Bees have a strong memory of their home. If moving the hive more than 5 kilometers, you can move it directly. For shorter distances, find an intermediate location and move the hive there for two weeks before bringing it home. Always move the hive at night when bees are in the hive, and handle it gently to avoid shaking.
6. Management Tips: Chinese honeybees require minimal management. In summer, provide ventilation and water sources. In winter, remove empty combs and insulate with foam boards. Guard against predators like geckos by ensuring tight seals and using barriers at the hive entrance.
7. Embrace Practice and Discover Patterns: While spring is often considered the best season for honey production, the author’s experience in Fuding shows that autumn can be even more productive. The cooler, drier weather and abundant nectar sources make it an ideal time for honey production and colony growth.
Urban beekeeping is a rewarding hobby that offers health benefits, economic rewards, and a deeper connection to nature. Whether you are a seasoned beekeeper or a beginner, embracing the practice and learning from others can lead to a successful and enjoyable beekeeping experience. As more people discover the joys of beekeeping, it becomes clear that this sweet hobby has much to offer.