EBKA FAQ'S


	Q: Do I need to have any bees to join the EBKA? No! Whether you have bees, or not, as long as you have an interest in bees and beekeeping you are very welcome. We have different levels of membership dependent on whether you have bees or not.

Q: I am just starting and want to get some hives. What type of hive should I get?
This is the fifty million dollar question! There are different types of hive available and different beekeepers have different opinions on what is best. The type of hive that you get can also be influenced by whether you are doing this as a hobby or going into more commercial honey production. Before you buy any hives, come and have a chat with some of our members and come to an apiary meeting so that you can see the different hives for yourself.

Q: Is beekeeping expensive?
New beekeepers normally start with second hand hives and equipment and a veil, rather than a full bee suit. Beekeepers often have equipment for sale, but ask advice from a seasoned beekeeper on what to get and to ensure that you are obtaining disease free and good quality items. A visit to the Sussex Bee Market in the spring of each year is well worth a visit with its large auction of beekeeping equipment and supplier stalls.


	Q: Do you offer training courses? We normally hold ‘Beginning Beekeeeping Days’ each year. See the Beekeeping Training Day page. Plumpton Agricultural College offers courses Click here for further details Plumpton bee course.

Q:Can I keep bees in my garden? This is not usually advisable but is sometimes possible depending on the location and size of the garden as well as your proximity to neighbours. Safety and rigorous hive management are of vital importance as most neighbours do not appreciate being stung or having a swarm arrive in their garden. Most beekeepers tend to have an ‘out’ apiary - one located in a safe area away from their home.

Q: I would like to come to a meeting, but I don’t have a bee suit? The Association can usually provide protective clothing for beginners at meetings. As bees walk up rather than down, it is best to wear Wellington boots, thick trousers (jeans are ideal) a long sleeved thick shirt and ‘Marigold’ gloves. Avoid jumpers as the bees get their legs caught in the woolly texture. Bees dislike dark colours, perfumes, strong after shave and shower gels. If you are allergic to stings, have heart trouble, asthma or similar serious conditions it is advisable to consult your GP before you handle bees.