New homestead, New to Bees

Scooby · June 18, 2005, 02:13:09 PM

Hi all,

First, I assume it's too late to start my first hive, but it's never too late to plant clover. :)

I'm about to purchase 10 acres of land, and a new home. I should be moved in no later than July 31st. Now, I have a ton of things to do before I can take up another hobby, but......

I'm thinking of planting white clover, how much clover would be good to support a hive or two?

The land is partly wooded, with several 1/2 acre clearings, there are several wild berry plants/vines, mostly rasberry, and a bunch of wild strawbery, several mulbery trees, and a couple stretches of grape vines.

On a side note,is grape a good source for of necter for honey?

My honey-do (all puns inteneded) list may be long, but I'm sure I can find time to spread some clover seed. :lol: :lol: :lol:

drobbins · June 18, 2005, 04:16:04 PM

The more clover ya plant, he less grass ya gotta mow :D

Dave

Michael Bush · June 18, 2005, 08:41:53 PM

Planting clover is always a good idea. But your few acres of clover will not be the "support" for the hive. The hive will forage the 8000 acres around you and THAT will support about 25 hives in most locations.

amymcg · June 18, 2005, 11:02:33 PM

Scooby, what's your location? That will help us determine if it's really too late to start your hives.

Scooby · June 19, 2005, 12:02:39 AM

Quote from: amymcgScooby, what's your location? That will help us determine if it's really too late to start your hives.

Southwest Michigan. Kalamazoo County. City of Portage. on a street. lol
The property backs up to the state's game area which is roughly one thousand acres (i would guess).

THere's a bluberry farm about 1/4 mile away.

I'm looking to support maybe 4 hives tops eventually. 25 would be way to much work, what with the chickens and goats and ducks.... :D

FrogPond · June 19, 2005, 10:00:05 AM

Best way to start pasture is to call your Ag Extension agent and ask what mixes do well in your location - they answer that question all the time. Local supply stores (NOT the chain stores!) will be able to mix up the "local favorite" for you and that will almost certainly do best. A good ground cover is always a great way to begin restoring the land you now own. Congratulations!

amymcg · June 19, 2005, 11:01:35 AM

Ahh Michigan, yes it might be too late to start hives this year and have enough stores for winter.

I would plan for next spring. Start planting your stuff, and this winter, order your woodenware, and pre-order your packages or nucs and spend the cold days putting together your hives and what not.

It will be spring before you know it.