MADISON COUNTY BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION

For many years, at the beginning of each meeting of the Madison County Beekeepers Association, approximately 5 minutes was devoted to “Beginners Corner”. This time was used to answer any novice beekeepers questions, let him/her know what is normal and should (or should not be) happening in their colonies as well as advise what actions he/she should be taking at this time in the beekeeping year.
This practice does not always take place so you may have to check back here for this information.
If you have questions feel free to email me.

The Madison County Beekeepers Association meets bi-monthly therefore this file is updated bi-monthly. Click on the months below that you wish to view.

This information is for the North Alabama area. If you are a novice beekeeper in other parts of the world, join a local beekeeping association and ask known-experienced beekeepers for similar advice. If unfamiliar with your advice giver, check his credentials with other beekeepers. Beekeepers with little experience have a tenancy to give advice that might well be bad! I find that the best advice is based on experience and not necessarily education. All advice in this post is intended for the novice beekeeper.
More experienced beekeepers may have the skills to attempt practices not recommended for the novice.

  • There are now 2 different sources for glass honey jars in the north Alabama area.
  • Neither of the two are easy to purchase from, so my advice is to change to plastic where practical. Where that is not practical, call well in advance and hope you can pick up jars reasonably close to your schedule.
  • Dodson Farm (931 698 4959 (Full line of glass and plastic) Columbia TN (Appointment required)
  • Piper and Leaf Wholesale Glass (256 520-2505) (Glass containers) Lacy's Spring AL (Limited operating days and hours)