Getting Started: Your First Hive

What you actually need to know in your first six weeks of beekeeping.

Your first six weeks

You don't need a full library on day one. You need: a veil, a smoker, a hive tool, and the willingness to look at the bees once a week without panicking. Here's the rhythm.

Week 1

Let them settle. Don't crack the lid for at least 5 days after installing a package or nuc.

Week 2

First inspection. Look for eggs (proof of laying queen), brood pattern (tight is good, spotty is concerning), and overall demeanor. Don't pull every frame — pull two or three.

Week 3-4

Add feed if there's no nectar flow yet. 1:1 sugar syrup in a top feeder is fine.

Week 5-6

By now you should be seeing capped brood, drawn comb, and active foragers. If you don't see eggs, you have a queen problem and you should ask for help.