From First Hive to Honey Harvest by Rajko Radivojac
From First Hive to Honey Harvest
Beekeeping begins with curiosity. Confidence comes from knowing what to do, when to do it, and why.
Drawing on nearly three decades of hands-on experience, Rajko Radivojac offers clear, practical guidance for those taking their first steps in beekeeping. More than 250 original photographs make essential knowledge easier to understand and apply—helping beginners make sound decisions, avoid common mistakes, care for their colonies responsibly, and develop skills they will use from their first honey harvest onward.
Honest, reassuring, and grounded in real apiary work, From First Hive to Honey Harvest is a guide to keep close as questions arise and experience grows.
VIEW Contents
CONTENTS
- 1.Before you start with bees
- 2.How to start beekeeping
- 3.Every beekeeper should know well
- 4.Membership in a beekeeping association
- 5.Do you have the right location for your apiary?
- 6.A guide to purchasing bees for beekeeping beginners
- 7.Purchasing hives
- 8.Stands
- 9.Hive preparation for bees’ arrival
- 10.Tools and equipment
- 11.What do you know about bees?
- 12.Robbing behavior in honey bees
- 13.Feeding of bees
- 14.Preparation of bee colonies for winter
- 15.A bee apiary in spring
- 16.Expanding the bee nest
- 17.Preparation of bee colonies for the main nectar flow
- 18.Honey extraction
- 19.Managing bee colonies after extracting honey
- 20.Ventilation
- 21.End of the nectar flow
- 22.Replacing and introducing queens
- 23.Drone-laying queen
- 24.Controlling Varroa
- 25.Melting wax
- 26.Storing drawn comb
- 27.Bee diseases
- 28.Pests of honey bees
- 29.Beekeeping diary
- 30.Visiting beekeeping events
- 31.How to sell honey
- 32.Final thoughts
- About the Author
VIEW Book Review
REVIEW BY JENNIFER BERRY, PHD ADJUNCT PROFESSOR, RESEARCH PROFESSIONAL UGA BEE LAB
There are many books available for people interested in beekeeping, but this one stands out as an excellent resource for beginners. The information is accurate, well organized, and presented in a way that is easy to read and understand. The accompanying photographs complement the text and help guide readers through each topic, making complex concepts easier to grasp. What I appreciated most was the author's honest, practical approach. He shares his extensive experience with humility and kindness, offering clear guidance that makes you feel as though you are sitting across the table having a conversation with him. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is new to beekeeping and looking for a reliable, approachable guide to getting started.
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