Learn the basics of beekeeping

Honeybees are more than just the source of sweet golden honey. They are essential pollinators for countless crops, flowers, and trees, making them one of the most important allies in both agriculture and our home gardens. For those curious about the art and science of raising bees, an upcoming program in Overton offers the perfect introduction.

Dr. Garett Slater, Honeybee Specialists with the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Overton will host East Texas Beekeeping 101 on Friday, Sep. 12. The full-day program begins with registration at 8:30 a.m. and runs through lunch, offering participants a practical introduction to the world of beekeeping.

The agenda is designed with beginners in mind but will also benefit those who have recently started keeping bees. Topics include bee biology, behavior, and management, helping participants understand the life cycle of bees and how a hive functions as a super-organism. A session on getting started beekeeping will cover the basics of equipment, hive placement, and seasonal care. Attendees will also learn what a typical year in beekeeping looks like, from spring buildup to winter survival.

One of the most important sessions will be on hive inspections and varroa management. Varroa mites remain the single greatest threat to honeybee health, and new beekeepers must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to recognize and manage this parasite effectively. Afterward, participants will enjoy a lunch and honey tasting, giving them a chance to savor the very product their future bees may produce.

The cost of the program is $35, which includes lunch. Participants are asked to RSVP by September 5 by calling (903) 657-0376. Space is limited, and demand is always high for beekeeping classes, so early registration is recommended.

Beekeeping is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the United States, and for good reason. Honeybees not only provide honey and wax but also pollinate many of the fruits, vegetables, and flowers we rely on daily. While the hobby comes with responsibilities and challenges, it also offers rewards that go far beyond the hive. Beekeepers often find joy in watching their colonies thrive, satisfaction in producing their own honey, and a deep connection with the natural world.

East Texas, with its mild winters, diverse plant life, and long growing season, is well suited for beekeeping. Many local gardeners and small farmers have found that adding a hive or two not only helps their crops but also supports the larger goal of strengthening pollinator populations. Programs like this one in Overton provide the knowledge and confidence to get started responsibly.

If you have ever been curious about keeping bees, now is the perfect time to learn the basics. Whether you dream of harvesting jars of honey, pollinating your fruit trees, or simply learning more about these fascinating insects, this seminar is a great first step.

For more details, contact the Rusk County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office in Henderson at (903) 657-0376.

Greg Grant, Ph.D., is the Smith County horticulturist and Master Gardener coordinator for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Tyler.