Introduction
Before getting onto my reviews of the best beekeeping books, let’s start with a little introduction. For experts and hobbyists alike, the market has been teeming for some time with beekeeping books. These can range from those offering technical apicultural advice to those more general books on any number of topics tangential to the world of bees. In fact, the honey bee is such a ceaselessly fascinating creature – and their colonies such a marvel of natural complexity – that it won’t take a beekeeping initiate particularly long to realize just how many topics are contained under the general heading of “beekeeping”.
Table of Contents
From general books for beginners to specific topics such as organic/top bar beekeeping and DIY beekeeping equipment, there is a rich store of published information on this most fascinating of hobbies (or, indeed, professions). Included here are fifteen of the best, selected for both their use and helpfulness to the beekeeper, as well as the enjoyment of the general reader.
Apiculture is now meeting, head on, the ecological threats that in recent times have become a major public concern. Not only have many realized that beekeeping is by no means a prohibitively difficult or expensive endeavor, but even governments are now supporting amateur and professional beekeepers in an attempt to combat the alarming spectacle of diminishing bee populations and the specter of colony collapse disorder.
This means that a great many people are now taking up apiculture casually. As they do so, the market for books on the subject has only grown. Long gone are the days when books on this topic would be confined to specialty or technical sections of libraries and bookshops – they are now stocking fillers and hardback bestsellers.
And with this popularity, comes a great deal of new information to satisfy the demand. Beekeeping is not a static endeavor. There may be certain items of universal advice that haven’t changed since prehistoric man inaugurated apiculture some 9000 years ago. However, more often than not, beekeeping moves with the times, whether that be changes in hive technology or the development and advancement of new diseases and other natural challenges. Many of the books on my list here are bearing the fruit of the latest apicultural research or are addressing problems that are unique to our time.
Read on, then, for some of the best beekeeping books, in demand and on shelves in 2023.
Storey’s Guide to Keeping Honey Bees
- Sanford, Malcolm T. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 224 Pages – 07/10/2018 (Publication Date) – Storey Publishing, LLC (Publisher)
Storey’s Guide to Keeping Honey Bees, 2nd Edition is a comprehensive guide for both novice and seasoned beekeepers. Authored by Malcolm T. Sanford and Richard E. Bonney, this book provides practical information on a wide range of beekeeping aspects. From planning hives and installing a colony to preventing disease and managing productive hives, this guide covers it all. The second edition of the book has been redesigned and now features color photos and graphics, along with up-to-date information on honey bee health. It is part of the Storey’s Guide to Raising series and is available in Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback, and Spiral-bound editions.
Click here for a detailed review.
The Beekeeper’s Problem Solver: 100 Common Problems Explored and Explained
- Tew, James E. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 224 Pages – 02/15/2015 (Publication Date) – Quarry Books (Publisher)
The Beekeeper’s Problem Solver: 100 Common Problems Explored and Explained is a comprehensive guide authored by experienced beekeeper and apiary expert, James E. Tew. This book is a must-have resource for both new and seasoned beekeepers, addressing 100 common problems that can arise in beekeeping. The book is organized into several categories, providing practical tips and useful insights for each problem. It features color photography throughout and includes a glossary of terms at the back.
Click here for a detailed review.
Langstroth’s Hive and the Honeybee: The Classic Beekeeper’s Manual
- First published in 1878, the information is still pertinent and useful
- Many beekeepers still use this as one of their primary references
- Topics include facts about the movable-comb hive, pollen or “bee bread”, ventilation of the hive, requisites of a complete hive, enemies and much more
- For the novice or experienced
- Langstroth, 5-1/4″ x 8-1/2″, 409 pp.
Langstroth’s Hive and the Honey-Bee: The Classic Beekeeper’s Manual is a comprehensive guide to beekeeping, authored by L. L. Langstroth, the father of modern beekeeping. Originally published in 1853, this book revolutionized the practice of beekeeping and remains relevant today. It covers a wide range of topics, including bee physiology, diseases and enemies of bees, the life-cycles of the queen, drone, and worker, bee-hives, and the handling of bees. The book is written in a reader-friendly, non-technical style, making it accessible to both novice and experienced beekeepers. This version is the fourth and final edition, incorporating the author’s own revisions.
Click here for a detailed review.
Beginning Beekeeping: Everything You Need to Make your Hive Thrive
- Phillips, Tanya (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 192 Pages – 03/14/2017 (Publication Date) – Alpha (Publisher)
Beginning Beekeeping: Everything You Need to Make Your Hive Thrive! is a comprehensive guide authored by Tanya Phillips. This paperback book is a must-have for anyone interested in starting their journey into beekeeping. It provides practical information on setting up hives, buying and installing bees, and feeding bees. The book also offers effective treatment recommendations for common hive pests and diseases. It includes instructions for harvesting honey and processing and storing honey and wax from your hives. This book is also available in a Kindle format.
Click here for a detailed review.
Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping
- Hardcover Book
- Dewey M. Caron (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 368 Pages – 06/28/2013 (Publication Date) – Wicwas Press (Publisher)
Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping, Revised Edition is a comprehensive guide authored by Dewey M. Caron and Lawrence John Connor. This hardcover book serves as a standard textbook for teaching the science and practice of bees and beekeeping. It explains bee basics in a manner that is meaningful to people who lack an intensive background in biology. The Revised Edition features full-color illustrations throughout, extensive revision of photography and artwork, and thoroughly updated materials.
Click here for a detailed review.
Natural Beekeeping: Organic Approaches to Modern Apiculture
- Conrad, Ross (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 304 Pages – 03/08/2013 (Publication Date) – Chelsea Green Publishing (Publisher)
Natural Beekeeping: Organic Approaches to Modern Apiculture, 2nd Edition is a comprehensive guide authored by Ross Conrad that offers a holistic, sensible alternative to conventional chemical practices in beekeeping. The book covers a wide range of subjects, including the basics of bee biology and anatomy, urban beekeeping, identifying and working with queens, parasitic mite control, and hive diseases. It also includes a new chapter on marketing hive products. This book is a valuable resource for both novice and experienced beekeepers.
Click here for a detailed review.
QueenSpotting: Meet the Remarkable Queen Bee and Discover the Drama at the Heart of the Hive
- Hardcover Book
- Kearney, Hilary (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 128 Pages – 04/30/2019 (Publication Date) – Storey Publishing, LLC (Publisher)
QueenSpotting: Meet the Remarkable Queen Bee and Discover the Drama at the Heart of the Hive is a captivating book by Hilary Kearney. This 128-page book, published by Storey Publishing, LLC, is a fascinating exploration into the world of bees, focusing on the queen bee’s unique life. The book includes 48 fold-out visual puzzles that challenge readers to spot the queen bee among her many subjects. It’s an instructive and entertaining read for backyard beekeepers and nature lovers alike.
Click here for a detailed review.
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Beekeeping
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Stiglitz, Dean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 208 Pages – 05/04/2010 (Publication Date) – Alpha (Publisher)
The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Beekeeping is a comprehensive guide for beginners interested in beekeeping. Authored by expert beekeepers Dean Stiglitz and Laurie Herboldsheimer, this book guides readers through the entire process of beekeeping. From understanding the hive’s inhabitants to maintaining their health, raising a queen, harvesting honey and wax, and storing hives for the off-season, this book covers it all. Published by ALPHA, it is written in English and consists of 208 pages.
Click here for a detailed review.
Build Your Own Beekeeping Equipment
- Pisano, Tony (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 160 Pages – 04/23/2013 (Publication Date) – Storey Publishing, LLC (Publisher)
Build Your Own Beekeeping Equipment is a comprehensive guide by Tony Pisano. This book is an essential resource for anyone interested in beekeeping, providing detailed instructions on how to craft your own beekeeping equipment. Covering a variety of hive types, it includes all the basic infrastructure you need to keep your bees happy and active.
Click here for a detailed review.
Top-Bar Beekeeping: Organic Practices for Honeybee Health
- Crowder, Les (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 192 Pages – 08/31/2012 (Publication Date) – Chelsea Green Publishing (Publisher)
Top-Bar Beekeeping: Organic Practices for Honeybee Health is a comprehensive guide authored by Les Crowder and Heather Harrell. This book is designed to encourage beekeepers to adopt natural beekeeping practices using top-bar hives. It provides a wealth of information on beekeeping basics, hive management, and the challenges faced by beekeepers, including pests and Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). The book promotes the use of top-bar hives, which allow bees to build comb naturally, unlike the prefabricated foundation frames in a typical box hive. It is an invaluable resource for home and hobbyist beekeepers, home orchardists, gardeners, and permaculture practitioners.
Click here for a detailed review.
The Backyard Beekeeper: An Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Keeping Bees in Your Yard and Garden
- Flottum, Kim (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 240 Pages – 01/02/2018 (Publication Date) – Quarry Books (Publisher)
The Backyard Beekeeper: An Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Keeping Bees in Your Yard and Garden, 4th Edition is a comprehensive guide authored by Kim Flottum. This illustrated paperback edition, published by Quarry Books, offers a wealth of knowledge for both urban and rural beekeepers of all skill levels. The book provides expert advice on setting up and caring for bee colonies, selecting the best locations for hives, practical and non-toxic bee care, swarm control, and using top bar hives. It also guides readers on harvesting beehive products and using honey. The 4th edition includes new information for urban beekeepers, effective pest management, and tips for keeping hives healthy.
Click here for a detailed review.
Beekeeping for Beginners: How To Raise Your First Bee Colonies
- Bradshaw, Amber (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 178 Pages – 06/25/2019 (Publication Date) – Rockridge Press (Publisher)
Beekeeping for Beginners: How To Raise Your First Bee Colonies is a comprehensive guide written by experienced beekeeper Amber Bradshaw. This book is designed to help beginners learn the fundamentals of modern beekeeping in a simple, step-by-step manner. From choosing the right hive to surviving winter and collecting honey, the author guides you through your first year of beekeeping and beyond. The book also includes a complete glossary and clearly defined terms to help you quickly familiarize yourself with beekeeping jargon.
Click here for a detailed review.
The Beekeeper’s Handbook
- Sammataro, Diana (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 368 Pages – 04/15/2021 (Publication Date) – Comstock Publishing Associates (Publisher)
The Beekeeper’s Handbook is a comprehensive guide authored by Diana Sammataro and Alphonse Avitabile. This book serves as an invaluable resource for both beginner and veteran beekeepers. It provides step-by-step instructions for setting up an apiary, handling bees, and maintaining a healthy colony throughout the season. The handbook also offers various colony care options and techniques, enabling beekeepers to make the best choices for their hives. This fifth edition has been fully updated and expanded, including hand-drawn instructional diagrams and updated research on bee health and behaviors in different habitats.
Click here for a detailed review.
The Beekeeper’s Bible: Bees, Honey, Recipes & Other Home Uses
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Hardcover Book
- Jones, Richard A. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 416 Pages – 04/01/2011 (Publication Date) – Stewart, Tabori and Chang (Publisher)
The Beekeeper’s Bible: Bees, Honey, Recipes & Other Home Uses is a comprehensive guide to beekeeping, honey, and related topics. Authored by Richard A. Jones and Sharon Sweeney-Lynch, this hardcover book serves as a history book, handbook, and cookbook all in one, covering every facet of the ancient hobby of beekeeping. It provides practical essentials for both novice and experienced beekeepers, including managing hives safely and harvesting your own honey. The book also includes ideas for using honey and beeswax, with detailed instructions for making candles, furniture polish, beauty products, and nearly 100 honey-themed recipes.
Click here for a detailed review.
Beekeeping for Dummies
- Blackiston, Howland (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 480 Pages – 01/17/2017 (Publication Date) – For Dummies (Publisher)
Beekeeping For Dummies is a comprehensive guide for aspiring and beginner beekeepers. Authored by Howland Blackiston, this 4th edition book provides all the necessary information to start and maintain your own bee colony. It covers topics such as assembling and maintaining beehives, handling honey production, using beekeeping tools, and managing your colony. This hands-on guide is suitable for various settings, from urban rooftops to large country yards.
Click here for a detailed review.
The Best Beekeeping Books – Conclusion
In conclusion, beekeeping is a fascinating and rewarding hobby that can provide you with not only honey and beeswax but also an understanding of the intricate workings of nature. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced beekeeper, there are many excellent books available to help you learn more about bees, their behavior, and how to care for them. The top beekeeping books mentioned in this article cover a wide range of topics and are written by some of the most respected authors in the industry. By reading these books, you can gain valuable insights and knowledge that will help you become a better beekeeper and enjoy the many benefits that come with this amazing hobby.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of this blog post about the best beekeeping books? A: The purpose of this blog post is to provide an overview of the best beekeeping books available for both beginners and experienced beekeepers, to help them expand their knowledge and enhance their beekeeping skills.
Q: Are these beekeeping books suitable for beginners? A: Yes, many of the books featured in this blog post are suitable for beginners and provide a comprehensive introduction to beekeeping, while others cater to more advanced beekeepers looking to deepen their understanding.
Q: How do I choose the right beekeeping book for me? A: Consider your level of experience, your preferred learning style, and the specific areas of beekeeping you’re interested in. Read the reviews and descriptions of the books in the blog post to find the one that best aligns with your needs.
Q: Can I use these books as my only source of beekeeping knowledge? A: While these books provide valuable information, it’s important to supplement your learning with hands-on experience, local workshops, and networking with experienced beekeepers in your area.
Q: Are there any books that focus on organic or natural beekeeping methods? A: Yes, the blog post includes books that emphasize organic, sustainable, and natural beekeeping practices, catering to beekeepers who prefer environmentally friendly and chemical-free methods.
Q: Will these books teach me how to build my own beehives and beekeeping equipment? A: Some of the books featured in the blog post offer instructions on building beehives and other beekeeping equipment, while others may focus more on the management and care of honeybees.
Q: Are there any books specifically for children or young adults interested in beekeeping? A: The blog post primarily features books aimed at adult audiences, but some may include sections or resources suitable for younger readers interested in learning about beekeeping.
Q: Do these books cover beekeeping in different climates and regions? A: Many of the books offer general advice on beekeeping that can be adapted to different climates and regions. However, some books may provide more specific information for certain geographic areas, so it’s important to choose one that is relevant to your location.
Q: Will I learn about different types of honeybees and their behavior in these books? A: Yes, most of the books in the blog post will provide information on various honeybee species, their behavior, and the role they play within the hive.
Q: Can these books help me identify and treat common honeybee diseases and pests? A: Many of the books featured in the blog post address common honeybee diseases and pests, offering guidance on identification, prevention, and treatment methods.
Q: Are there books that focus on honey production and processing? A: Yes, some of the books included in the blog post cover honey production, extraction, and processing techniques, providing valuable information for those looking to optimize their honey harvest.
Q: Will these books teach me about the business side of beekeeping? A: Some of the books in the blog post touch on the business aspects of beekeeping, such as marketing, sales, and regulations. However, you may need to seek additional resources for a more comprehensive understanding of the business side of beekeeping.
Q: Can I find these books in digital or audio format? A: Many of the books mentioned in the blog post are available in digital formats like e-books, and some may be available as audiobooks. Check your preferred online retailer or local library for availability.
Q: Where can I buy the beekeeping books featured in this blog post? A: The beekeeping books can be purchased by clicking the relevant links and heading to Amazon. They may also be available at local bookstores and libraries.
Beekeeping Disclaimer:
Beekeeping, like any agricultural activity, involves inherent risks. It is important to understand these risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
Potential risks associated with beekeeping include:
- Bee stings: Honeybees are generally not aggressive but can become defensive if they feel threatened or their hive is disturbed. Bee stings can cause allergic reactions or even anaphylaxis in some individuals, which can be life-threatening. It is important to wear protective clothing and follow best practices when handling bees to minimize the risk of stings.
- Diseases and pests: Bees can be vulnerable to various diseases and pests, including mites, viruses, and bacterial infections. These can have significant impacts on bee colonies, leading to reduced honey production or even colony collapse. It is important to monitor hives regularly and take appropriate measures to prevent and treat diseases and pests.
- Weather conditions: Extreme weather conditions, such as drought or cold temperatures, can affect the health and productivity of bee colonies. It is important to ensure that hives are appropriately sheltered and provided with adequate food and water.
- Environmental hazards: Bees can be affected by environmental hazards such as pesticide exposure, pollution, and habitat loss. It is important to be aware of these hazards and take appropriate measures to protect bee colonies and promote healthy environments for bees.
- Legal requirements: Beekeeping may be subject to local, state, or national regulations, such as registration or inspection requirements. It is important to be aware of these requirements and comply with them.
While beekeeping can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate them. By following best practices and staying informed about the latest developments in beekeeping, beekeepers can help ensure the health and productivity of their hives and contribute to the well-being of bee populations worldwide.
Last update on 2023-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
