Our Beekeeping Journey: From Two NUCs to Four Thriving Hives
Last year, we took the leap into backyard beekeeping with two NUCs (nucleus colonies) from a local Virginia apiary. We weren’t sure what to expect, but we knew one thing—we wanted to support pollinators and hopefully harvest a little bit of local raw honey for ourselves.
First-Year Beekeeping: Learning Step by Step
Like many new beekeepers, that first season came with a learning curve. My goal was simple:
- Keep the hives alive through the summer
- Help them build strength in the fall
- Do everything possible to help them survive the winter
I fed the bees regularly, monitored their behavior, and stayed consistent with preventative mite treatments to protect them from varroa infestations. It was equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking, but every small success made the effort worthwhile.
Spring Success and a Sweet Reward
When early spring rolled around and I saw the bees emerging again, buzzing through warm sunlight, it was pure joy. Not only had the colonies survived—they were thriving.
In June, the hard work paid off in a big way: nearly 40 pounds of golden honey! The flavor was unlike anything store-bought—floral, fragrant, and with a slight spice that hinted at the variety of blooms our bees had visited. That first taste of home-harvested honey was unforgettable.
Expanding Our Apiary
We didn’t wait long. The very next weekend, we added two more hives, bringing us to four healthy, active beehives. Our small-scale apiary has become a vital part of our homestead, supporting not only our garden’s pollination but also our mission of sustainable, self-sufficient living.
We’ve fallen in love with beekeeping—both for the honey and for the chance to work in harmony with nature.
Interested in Beekeeping?
If you’re thinking about starting your own hives, we’d love to share what we’ve learned. Follow our journey here on the blog or reach out with questions. Beekeeping isn’t just a hobby—it’s a beautiful, buzzing partnership.
How to Start Beekeeing: A Guide for Newbies and Nature Lovers
Tags: backyard beekeeping, local honey, raw honey, varroa treatment, starting beehives, homestead beekeeping, apiary setup, pollinator support, beekeeping in Virginia
Some Favorite Beekeeping Links:
University of Guelph Honey Bee Research Centre – A wealth of beekeeping videos that are informative and easy to understand.