Join us for an engaging conversation on the Apiary Chronicles podcast, where I sit down with the Jeff Harchoff, also known as Mr Ed. We explore his fascinating journey in beekeeping, which began in 1978 when a friend's passion for bees sparked his interest. Mr Ed recounts his transition from the bustling city of New Orleans to the serene countryside of St. Benedict, Louisiana, where he started with three hives. His story takes us through the challenges of managing bee colonies over the decades, including a hiatus following Hurricane Katrina, and highlights his passion for woodworking as he shares his experiences volunteering at a monastery to build caskets.

Our discussion shifts to the technical aspects of beekeeping, where we explore the equipment and methods Mr Ed has developed over the years. He shares insights into the construction of frames, the pros and cons of using plastic versus wooden frames, and his strategy for distributing hives across multiple locations to mitigate risks like flooding. Mr Ed's hands-off approach to beekeeping, which emphasizes natural selection and strong genetics, is highlighted as we explore his methods for hive management, including strategic swarm trapping and his innovative use of a double-screen divided board to manage bee colonies effectively.

As the conversation unfolds, we uncover valuable tips for both novice and experienced beekeepers. Mr Ed emphasizes the importance of community engagement, such as joining local bee clubs and utilizing online platforms like YouTube for region-specific advice and mentorship. His passion for sharing knowledge and fostering a supportive beekeeping community shines through as he discusses his favorite tools and techniques in the apiary. Don't miss the opportunity to gain insights from Mr Ed's extensive experience and learn how to enhance your own beekeeping practices.

https://www.youtube.com/@JeffHorchoff
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