Spring start, full season to build
Start a new hive in early spring (March to May, depending on region) so the colony has the full growing season to build comb, raise brood, and store honey before winter. A colony started in summer may not build sufficient stores to survive its first winter.
Order packages or nucleus colonies (nucs) from reputable suppliers 2 to 3 months before your planned start date. They sell out.
Learning, not harvesting
Most beekeepers should not harvest honey the first year. The bees need all their stores to survive the first winter. A strong first-year colony builds a foundation for years of production. Harvesting too early starves the colony.
Join before you buy
Join your local beekeeping association before ordering bees. Experienced local beekeepers provide mentorship, loaner equipment, and advice calibrated to your specific climate and nectar flow. Beekeeping books describe general principles; your neighbors know your conditions.
- Start a new hive in early spring for a full growing season
- Order bees 2-3 months before planned start date
- Do not harvest honey the first year
- Join your local beekeeping association before ordering bees
- Local mentors are more valuable than general books
- UGA Extension — Beginning beekeeping guidance.