Tropilaelaps (Tropi) Mites
As of the writing of this post in early 2026, Tropilaelaps (tropi) mites are not in North America. As a beekeeper, these are terrifying pests. Varroa is bad enough. It’s […]
Bee Pests & Diseases
Bee Pests & Diseases
Tracheal Mite
Parasitic mites that affect the breathing tube (tracheae) of adult honey bees, cause colony loss. Difficult to diagnose, there are a few symptoms that are visible.
Bee Pests & Diseases
Ants, Spiders and earwigs
It may seem like these better known pests wouldn’t be much of a problem for a strong, healthy honeybee colony. Especially in comparison to the varroa mite. Ants will loot
Honey and Wax
What is Honey?
WARNING: Do not feed honey to infants under 1 year old, no matter if it is raw or pasteurized. Botulism is a risk that babies cannot fight. It’s a collection
Bee Pests & Diseases
Nosema, Sacbrood, chalkbrood
Nosema Nosema apis, a microscopic fungus that affects honeybee colonies. It is very serious, causing losses in autumn and spring. It can be treated with antibiotic – fumagillin – obtained
Garden & Growing
Annuals & Perennials
Annual Flowers Annuals are flowers that must be replanted each year. Not all annuals are the same. Cool-season hardy annuals prefer cooler weather and can tolerate light frost, while warm-season
Garden & Growing
Woodies & Foliage
Woodies & foliage provide year-round interest not only in the garden, but in your vase too. They may be bare, leafy, or flowering, adding structure to any arrangement. With the
Bee Pests & Diseases
Yellow Jackets, Wasps & Hornets
Yellow Jackets Much like a honeybee, a yellow jacket can sting except she can sting multiple times unlike a honeybee. Yellow jackets are actually wasps and while they are beneficial
Tips & Tricks
How you can help
I get asked all the time what can be done to help the bees or reduce harm to the bees. And trust me, ask three beekeepers their opinion, you’ll easily
Bee Pests & Diseases
Parasitic mite syndrome [pms], Deformed wing virus (DWV) & paralysis
Parasitic Mite Syndrome, Deformed Wing Virus and Bee Paralysis are caused by the varroa mite. Parasitic Mite Syndrome [PMS] Symptoms of PMS are spotty brood pattern with sunken, dark, torn