How much time will I spend beekeeping?

[onriver]

I'd have to agree with milkermel when I'm persuading the family that I have to get the allotment sorted urgently to get the spuds in it doesn't have the same unarguable urgency that "I'm expecting some swarm signs this weekend, must check..." has
My answer to the original query is that it isn't at all proportionate. The first hive involves a lot of looking at, worrying over and consultations, the second is a straightforward doubling of that and then the 3rd and 4th benefit from being a lot quicker, knowing what is looked for and more ideas about how to respond - I'd say in a calm and philosophical way, but I'd be lying
I also have 4 children and the analogy transfers very well.......
Well worth it on both counts though

 

[kermit]

Sounds very similar to me... I'm a science teacher and climber. I have time for bees and climbing and I am also a member of my local mountain rescue team - luckily no callouts during an inspection (yet). You can find time quite easily, but when things need to be done, then they NEED to be done - bees wait for no man.

I am also getting a colony at school in the next month, don't worry about H&S just do a good risk assessment and expect kids to be stung - prim senior management with the risks first and then you shouldn't have any problems. Luckily my local BKA have also offered help.

Cheers
Dave

 

[thedeaddiplomat]

Hello everyone.

How much time am I likely to spend beekeeping weekly if I have one or two hives?

I'm a complete novice with no beekeeping experience whatsoever but have recently been thinking of setting up one or two hives. I've been reading lots about the subject and am planning on going on a short course to get some practical experience.

My big concern is time. I'm a science teacher so am usually pretty busy in the evenings and time at the weekends is limited, especially as I'm keen on gardening and rock climbing. Hopefully beekeeping can be fun and relaxing rather than an additional stress.

Please understand that this is not meant to be a put down ...

but ...

if you have to ask yourself whether you have enough time to devote to beekeeping at present - then you don't.

 

[BobH1]

if you have to ask yourself whether you have enough time to devote to beekeeping at present - then you don't.

It's like a Rolls Royce, if you need to know how many miles it does to the gallon, then you can't afford it.

 

[Otleybee]

Just spent the afternoon making hive number 4. I reckon it took about 3 hours to put together stand, floor, brood box, roof and ten frames with wax. I do take my time and make sure everything is square and true. Then spent at least two hours just sitting watching bees. It is one of the most relaxing things I know.