This was my very first hive installation, and I was on my own. After loads of reading and many youtube videos, I believed to have a grasp of what I needed to do. I installed my hives the day I got my Nucs; May 4th, 2018.

Looking back I think the bees where more patient with me, then I was with them. Bees are intelligent and resilient creatures that know what they are doing. I probably made a few mistakes in the installation that I don’t even know about, but a month later, they are happier, healthier, and thriving and that credit goes all to them and their brilliance.

Tips from a Beginner:

• I didn’t wear gloves! I found that to be much easier and quicker because I could feel what I was grabbing and could make sure I wasn’t squashing anybody
• Be slow when taking out the frames, and be very very gentle
• Some bees will be dead, don’t freak out!
• Ignore ALL temptations to open the hive, you DO NOT want to disturb them, they just went through a lot. You don’t want them thinking their new home isn’t safe!
  • You can open your new hives no less than a full 5 days after installation. Preferably though, wait a whole week to check on them
• Stay calm, bees can read your energy, if you are calm chances are they will be calm too

Good Luck!