Essential elements of an “ideal” apiary location include:

• Abundant sources of nectar and pollen located within a mile of the apiary. A variety of plants will increase the availability of nectar and pollen year-round. Bees need pollen for brood rearing and surplus honey made from nectar for successful over-wintering.

• A good source of clean water should be available within one-quarter of a mile. If clean fresh water is not available, a container of water can be provided. Be sure to include a landing support surface to allow the bees to stand on without drowning. Wood blocks, cork blocks, rocks, gravel or burlap cloth can be used in the container to provide dry support.

• Good air circulation with no stagnant air pockets. A location with a gentle slope is suitable, but avoid placing colonies in low areas with poor air circulation.

• Good water drainage in an area above flood level.

• Flooding quickly kills colonies and can literally float them away.

• Provide morning sun and afternoon shade for colonies, if possible. Eastern entrance exposure for morning sun is great. Be careful not to place colonies in locations that are shaded most of the time. Total sun exposure would be better for colonies than total shade.

• Protection from direct winds, especially in winter. Trees or shrubs are good wind breaks.

• Orient multiple colonies in a “U” or “S” shape rather then in a straight line. When colonies are placed in a straight line, bees tend to drift to colonies at the ends of the line, which weakens colonies in the middle.

• Ready access – The apiary must be easy to get to with a vehicle. Bee colonies are heavy. You do not want to carry heavy equipment up hills, through mud holes or across drainage ditches. Avoid locked gates unless you have a key. The apiary should be near a hard-surface road. It will be necessary to visit your apiary in all kinds of weather. Although the apiary should be near a road, it is best if it is not easily seen from the road, especially if the road is open to the public. Vandalism and theft may occur.

- John Skinner, University of Tennessee

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