Shows
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 252: Oilseed Rape ChallengesIn this week's Podcast: One of our early major nectar flows comes in the form of the Oilseed Rape crops sown widely by farmers across the UK. It brings with it a ready source of nectar and pollen for our bees, but also some challenges in terms of timing and extraction, here's my take on a love/hate relationship some beekeepers have with this early-season plant. Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 252 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Oilseed Rape Paper can be found HERE
2023-04-2318 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 245: Pests and Diseases - Part 1In this week's Podcast: One of the biggest challenges beekeepers face each season is the identification of pests and diseases, working out how serious that problem is and then deciding what course of treatment to take. Here's part one of my summary of what to look out for.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 245 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.National Bee Unit Bee Inspectors list - click hereContact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyJoin Our Beekeeping Community in...
2023-03-0519 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 244: Nosema ChecksIn this week's Podcast: For beekeepers who are overwintering colonies, it may seem that Spring is still a long way off but there are things we can do to check the health of our bees. One of those is checking for nosema, stay tuned to hear some of my thoughts and what the results could mean for your coming season.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 244 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.References for today's podcast:1. Marín-García, Pablo Jesús, Yoorana Peyre, Ana E...
2023-02-2618 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 243: Buying a Nucleus Colony of HoneybeesIn this week's Podcast: In the depths of Winter thoughts turn to warmer weather and the prospect, for many, of purchasing their first nucleus colony of honeybees. Here's what to expect and what to look out for.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 243 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.National Bee Unit Advisory Leaflets can be found HEREContact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video an...
2023-02-1917 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 242: Pick a Hive, Any Hive!In this week's Podcast: For new beekeepers, the most important decision can be which hive type to use. With so many options out there it can be quite confusing, today I give my views on some of the most popular.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 242 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access Her...
2023-02-1216 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 241: Plans for 2023In this week's Podcast: A new year means we can all look forward to an exciting new beekeeping season and there's no better way to get excited for it than to make some plans for the coming year. Stay tuned to hear what I have planned for the coming season.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 241 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an af...
2023-02-0516 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEppisode 194: Splits Boards and DemareeIn this week's Podcast: While it's cold I've been trying to explain on video the new split board method which is very similar to the Demaree swarm control method, today I'll try to explain the subtle differences and I have some good news finally about the truck and trailer question.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 194 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an aff...
2022-02-1115 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 193: Varroa Population Growth Can Be FrighteningIn this week's Podcast: It's turned frosty outside, I've more Varroa chat and an update on other beekeeping stuff to keep you amused, if only for a short while.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 193 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The be...
2022-02-0416 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 192: Happy New Year!In this week's Podcast: One year ends and another begins, our beekeeping calendar continues and as reports come in about high varroa numbers I wanted to remind everyone about the dangers of Oxalic Acid. Stay safe folks.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 192 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment po...
2022-01-2814 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 191: Merry Christmas Everyone!In this week's Podcast: Merry Christmas Everyone, It's Christmas Eve.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 191 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wait, so their customers don't have to either.Visit the website at www.simonthebeekeeper.co.uk
2022-01-2111 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 190: Impulse Buys and That Damned Truck!In this week's Podcast: Sharing the adventures that don't always go to plan are sometimes the most helpful to others. Listen in for more truck troubles and the result of being an impulse buyer!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 190 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a s...
2022-01-1415 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 189: Planning for 2022In this week's Podcast: With the Winter Solstice just around the corner it's time to flesh out some of those plans and get it down on paper. Consolidation in some areas, Growth in others, it's an exciting time to be a Bee Farmer.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 189 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper pr...
2022-01-0714 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 188: Home Sweet HomeIn this week's Podcast: Jet-lagged, not at all, back from the States and rested up ready to crack on with our Winter clean up. So, keep your seat belts securely fastened in case of turbulence and let's talk beekeeping! Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 188 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value be...
2021-12-2413 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 187: Trailers and Association StrugglesIn this week's Podcast: It's Holiday time, I'm off to the States, we've appointed a new apiary manager for our association and I've some new ideas for swarm control.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 187 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bee...
2021-12-1714 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 186: Keep Calm and Plan Early!In this week's Podcast: I've just returned from a trip to catch up with the borage and pumpkin farmer we worked with through the Summer. We had an interesting chat and there are big plans for next season, let's get planning!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 186 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the be...
2021-12-1014 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 185: First FrostsIn this week's Podcast: It's been a chilly old week, I'm here to advocate you sell some honey and I've had a trip to Milton Keynes to stock up on honey room equipment.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 185 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a sup...
2021-12-0315 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 184: Question TimeIn this week's Podcast: Questions, Questions, Questions. You sent them in, and I'll do my best to give you an answer.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 184 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wait, so their customers don't have...
2021-11-2617 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 183: It's Microscopy SeasonIn this week's Podcast: As the days get shorter and the darker nights arrive you might be thinking there's less beekeeping to do but never fear it's time to dust down the microscope and delve into the microscopic world of pollen.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 183 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the be...
2021-11-1915 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 182: The Autumn Clean UpIn this week's Podcast: This week I've been waging war on pests and diseases, it's not a complicated process and most would call it good housekeeping. Time then to put on the rubber gloves, light the stove and start the Autumn clean up.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 182 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper pr...
2021-11-1216 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 181: Fuel Shortages and Beekeeping Incompetence!In this week's Podcast: The apiaries continue to get their Autumn tidy-up and I discover that I need to get a grip of my storage challenges before my hives get destroyed by an old adversary.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 181 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along wi...
2021-11-0515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 180: Farmers Markets and Treatment RemovalIn this week's Podcast: Farmers markets and country fairs, sometimes they're great sometimes they're a flop, stay tuned to hear how I got on last week at the Holkham Hall Plant Fair here in Norfolk.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 180 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along wi...
2021-10-2915 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 179: Chilly Mornings and Weekend MarketsIn this week's Podcast: The chilly mornings have begun, the nucs continue to pack away the fondant and I'm preparing products for a weekend market.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 179 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wait, so th...
2021-10-2216 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 178: Difficult DecisionsIn this week's Podcast: Our Autumn feeding continues, I'm uniting weaker colonies and we've even had a September swarm!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 178 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wait, so their customers don't have to eith...
2021-10-1515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 177: Early Autumn HeatwaveIn this week's Podcast: It's a scorcher! Temperatures have been hitting the high 20's Celsius, that's up in the 80's Fahrenheit. It's a great time for continued inspections to make sure colonies are Queen right.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 177 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along wi...
2021-10-0815 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 176: Autumn Colony AssessmentsIn this week's Podcast: In this week's Podcast, Finally, we have all the colonies home safely and the process of assessing, feeding and uniting starts in earnest.Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 176 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wa...
2021-10-0114 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 175: Sometimes Beekeeping Goes Wrong!In this week's Podcast: The return from the borage continues and I'm confronted with bees that really don't want to stay in their new homes!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 175 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wait, so t...
2021-09-2416 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 174: Late Summer Splits & Apiary MaintenanceHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 174 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: This week, troubles with Splits, queens disappearing and a jungle of an apiary that needs urgent attentionSponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bees won’t wait, so their customers don't have...
2021-09-1715 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 173: Our Honey Extraction KitHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 173 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: This week I'm in the Honey Room and we've got a few nice bits of kit to help make the job easier without breaking the bank.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The...
2021-09-1015 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 172: Supers, Varroa and WaspsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 172 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: It's an exciting time of the year, It's honey harvest time, but it's also a time to stay focussed and make sure we're on track for the Autumn.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast del...
2021-09-0316 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 171: Is My Honey Ready?Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 171 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: This week's big question on social media and from those beginner beekeepers I mentor has been "Is my Honey Ready to Extract?" Stay tuned to let me explain how you can judge for yourself.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equ...
2021-08-2715 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 170: The End is Nigh!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 170 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: One Week to go, just one more week and my traditional season end will be upon us. With so much still to do, I have a race to get the honey room ready for the big extraction.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best...
2021-08-2015 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 169: Prepping Nucs for AutumnHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 169 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I'm not sure where Summer is as yet, we've had cooler, wet days with a few brighter intervals but nothing to get very excited about, I am getting excited about our Autumn Nuc plans though.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best valu...
2021-08-1315 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 168: The Top Bar Hive DisasterHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 168 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I'm always willing to share when I get things wrong and this week I discovered a calamity with the Top Bar Hive. Listen in to hear what went wrong.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a su...
2021-08-0615 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 167: Moving Bees, Preventing Disasters!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 167 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Have you ever tried to move bee hives? Just a couple of feet or maybe a hundred miles, either way it needs careful consideration, sometimes it goes well, other times, well let's just say you have to put it down to experience!Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for eve...
2021-07-3016 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 166: Borage and The TruckHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 166 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Borage and my Ford Ranger Truck, these are the two things keeping me awake at night at the moment, listen in to find out why.Sponsorship: I'm delighted to say that our podcast is now sponsored in part by Simon The Beekeeper - 'Making beekeeping an affordable hobby for everyone, Simon the Beekeeper provides the best value beekeeping equipment possible, along with a super-fast delivery service. The bee...
2021-07-2315 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 165: A Funny Thing HappenedHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 165 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I have a question for you, Do swarms have a preference for where they settle? Two swarms, just days apart, both in the same tree, is that just coincidence?Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsThornes Beehives: Spanset Straps available hereJoin Our Beekeeping Community in t...
2021-07-1615 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 164: Working Safely in the ApiaryHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 164 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: This week we have another week of glorious sunshine, complaints about the heat and a warning about beekeepers Health and Safety in the apiary.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podc...
2021-07-0916 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 163: Dripping Nectar and Collecting PollenHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 163 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: It's been a solid week of sunshine, the hives are dripping with nectar and I've also started collecting some pollen, listen in to find out why.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Vide...
2021-07-0215 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 162: Rain Stops PlayHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 162 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Once again the weather has me beaten, but there's warmer weather heading our way and so I'm starting my queen rearing programme.Simon The Beekeeper - Bee Suit, Nicot Kits and Much MoreHoney Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the foll...
2021-06-2515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 161: Swarms, Splits, Stings and ThingsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 161 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Four seasons in one week, swarms that refuse to stay, being picked on by stinging bees and a Spring honey crop that's disappearing fast, so much to enjoy in this beekeepers world.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:
2021-06-1815 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 160: So It Begins!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 160 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Eventually, the weather breaks, the sun shines and all hell breaks loose! We've been out and about inspecting colonies adding boxes and chasing swarms!Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podc...
2021-06-1114 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 159: It's Still Cold!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 159 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Another frosty week, cold days and would you believe it, starving bees, It's May for heaven's sake! Swarming is imminent but when are we ever going to get into our hives, stay tuned for this week's update on all things beekeeping here at The Norfolk Honey Company.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Sub...
2021-06-0415 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 158: Do Pheasants Have Ears?Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 158 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: It's official, this has been the frostiest April for the last 60 years, that's the frostiest April I've ever seen, no wonder the bees are still shivering. Never fear, May is on its way with warmer weather for us and our bees to enjoy.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix Syrups
2021-05-2815 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 157: Disease InspectionsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 157 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Still we have frosts but daytime temperatures are rising, the bees are flying and finally I've been able to get into the hives and see what's going on, it's time for disease inspections.Checking for Chalkbrood Video can be viewed hereHoney Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix Syrups
2021-05-2114 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 156: First Tentative InspectionsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 156 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: What a difference a week makes, temperatures of 20 degrees celsius have given way to days barely above freezing. Stay tuned for updates on how this is affecting my colonies and why the number 35 is so important to our honeybees.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our...
2021-05-1417 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 155: A Frosty Easter WeekendHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 155 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: What a difference a week makes, temperatures of 20 degrees celsius have given way to days barely above freezing. Stay tuned for updates on how this is affecting my colonies and why the number 35 is so important to our honeybees.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsE.H. Thorne (Bee...
2021-05-0717 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 154: A Sunny Day in the ApiaryHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 154 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: A beautifully sunny Spring day sat in the apiary musing about records, first inspections and general beekeeping "stuff".Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereS...
2021-04-3022 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 153: What's in your Wash Bucket?Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 153 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: The new season is upon us and I have some great tips for beginner beekeepers about what to keep in their wash bucket. Stay tuned for more beekeeping chat and a reminder about the National Honey Monitoring Scheme.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsNational Honey Monitoring Scheme - w...
2021-04-2316 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 152: First Inspections AheadHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 152 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Mid-March already and inspections have yet to start. It really won't be long, so here are some reminders of what to look for and a warning of the "Red Zone".Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Ea...
2021-04-1615 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 151: A Wet and Windy MarchHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 151 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: It's March, the weather is on it's usual Spring rollercoaster and we've been planning some queen rearing for the coming season with our coaching plus group, so stay tuned to hear some of my thoughts for this season's queen rearing activities.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJo...
2021-04-0915 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 150: Nervous Times!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 150 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: The sun has disappeared, it actually snowed again, and tomorrow, I'm off to the dentist, plenty of reasons to feel nervous!Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - A...
2021-04-0215 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 149: Understanding Aggression in HoneybeesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 149 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Warmer weather and Spring is in the air, but some beekeepers will be facing some uncomfortable moments with aggressive and grumpy bees. Today, I'm going to try to help you understand why.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:
2021-03-2617 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 148: Beekeepers, Sit On Your Hands!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 148 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: The snow has gone and temperatures are set to rise but I need you all to do something for me, don't inspect your bees this weekend, please, just sit on your hands!Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsInteresting Chalkbrood Paper - Chalkbrood disease in honey bees ...
2021-03-1916 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 147: The Icy BlastHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 147 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Candlemas day lets me down, we have a blast of icy weather from the East and I ponder the size of my colonies.Honey Paw Hives - Poly Langstroth Hives Designed by Beekeepers, for BeekeepersZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and...
2021-03-1214 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 146: February Tasks and Other StuffHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 146 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: It's February, still cold, still grey outside but the days are lengthening and you can almost see the start of the new season. But wait, there are still jobs to do and bees to check.Zukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsNational Bee Unit - Fact Sheet No 5: Buying BeesJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:
2021-03-0515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 145: Neonicotinoids in The UK Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 145 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Here in the UK the Government has approved the emergency use of Neonicotinoids sending alarm bells ringing among some beekeeping and conservation groups. It's time to open the can of worms.Zukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsReferences relating to the Neonicotinoid Discussion:https://www.nrdc.org/experts/daniel-raichel/ten-things-you-always-wanted-know-about-neonicshttps://www.syngenta-us.com/thr...
2021-02-2618 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 144 Nosema Testing ProtocolHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 144 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I chat about the method I use to test for Nosema, an infectious disease of the honeybee gut that causes dysentery and can slow a colony from building in Spring.Zukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsCheck out my Nosema Testing Video HereJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video an...
2021-02-1915 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 143: Planning for 2021Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 143 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: More planning for 2021, managing bees in cold weather and Zukan Bee FeedsZukan Bee Feeds - Apipasta Fondants, Apipasta Plus Pollen Substitute, and Apimix SyrupsJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Ch...
2021-02-1215 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 142: Early Season Queen RearingHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 142 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Early Season Queen Rearing, New Kit, and a little snow!Modern Beekeeping: Apipasta FondantJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Ou...
2021-02-0515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 141: Happy New Year and Winter Feeding StrategyHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 141 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Happy New Year and my Winter Feeding StrategyModern Beekeeping: Apipasta FondantJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great Ph...
2021-01-2918 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 140: Starving Bees and a Quick FixHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 140 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: This week, more hefting and a couple of very light colonies cause concern but resolving the issue is a simple fix.Modern Beekeeping: Apipasta FondantOxalic Acid Sublimation Research PaperJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereT...
2021-01-1515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 139: Clear Coverboards and Top Bar Hive StuffHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 139 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: This week I've been out hefting and looking through clear coverboards and we also had a brilliant Zoom gathering so listen in for more beekeeping fun.Check out our new products here: www.norfolk-honey.co.ukJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Pr...
2021-01-0815 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 138: New Product Launch and Oxalic Acid TreatmentsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 138 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. In This Week's Podcast: Our new product launch finally happened and I'm focussing on Oxalic Acid treatments and how best to achieve a varroa free Winter.Check out our new products here: www.norfolk-honey.co.ukJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click He...
2021-01-0115 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 137: Dead Colonies and Oxalic Acid TreatmentHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 137 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I'm trying to figure out how best to use the plastic frames and also having a crack at making sloe gin with honeyRandy Oliver's Scientific Beekeeping Website can be found HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click He...
2020-12-2515 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 136 Waxing Frames and Sloe Gin with HoneyHi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 136 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I'm trying to figure out how best to use the plastic frames and also having a crack at making sloe gin with honeyFor great advice and superb products visit Paul at Modern BeekeepingJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group...
2020-12-1815 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 135: Plans for 2021Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 135 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Time to start thinking about changes for next season and think about different methods of managing some coloniesCheck out Google Scholar hereThe International Bee Research Association can be found hereJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Cl...
2020-12-1115 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 134: My 2020 Season SummaryHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 134 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: My look back at the 2020 Beekeeping Season, The Good, The Bad, and The Exciting.Join Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great Ph...
2020-12-0414 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 133: National Honey SHow and StuffHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 133 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: My Virtual trip to the 2020 Virtual National Honey Show and a round up of other beekeeping stuff.Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.National Honey ShowI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our podcasts for this season. Check out the full range of hives and other beekeeping equipment.Join Our...
2020-11-2714 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 132: Sumps, Pumps, Mead and ZoomHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 131 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Finally, I've got myself into a Virtual Beekeeping Meeting, we get cleaning the honey sump and pump and this week I promise, I will update you on how the mead making is going.Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.Fizzy Mead Produced by Proper Professionals here I’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our p...
2020-11-2015 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 131: Book Review - Honey by Dr. Eva CraneHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 131 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: My weekly beekeeping roundup and a review of a reprinted book that has been much sought after by beekeepers for many years.Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Book Review Honey- A Comprehensive Survey by Dr. Eva CraneHoney Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.Apipasta Fondant for Winter FeedingMaisemore Poly HivesToday's podcast is sponsored in part by Northern Bee Books who have supplied a...
2020-11-1316 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 130: Stop Inspecting Your Hives!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks, and welcome to Episode 130 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I've had a couple of messages and emails this week from worried beekeepers inspecting hives, listen in for my suggestions, and an update on the past week.Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.Apipasta Fondant for Winter FeedingMaisemore Poly HivesI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our podcasts for this season. Check out...
2020-11-0614 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 129: Autumnal Checks and MeadHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 129 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Autumn always brings its own share of challenges, not least the high winds we've been experiencing. Coming up, some of my autumn checks, and I'm having another try at making mead!Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.Mead Book: Mead - Making, Exhibiting and Judging by Harry RichesI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for spon...
2020-10-3015 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 128: Watching Bees, New Equipment and The Team GrowsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 128 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: Hands up anyone who's forgotten to do something around the apiary this Autumn! I made a discovery yesterday that proves we're all just stumbling our way to beekeeping excellence, stay tuned to hear of my minor faux par, some exciting equipment news and we have another new member of the team to introduce.Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Be...
2020-10-2316 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 127: Queenless Autumn Colony or Not?Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 12 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I take a walk around my apiaries and discuss possible Queenless Autumn colonies and what might be happening.GET TWO MONTHS FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MY CONTENT HEREFeatured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.I’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our podcasts for this season. Check out the full range of h...
2020-10-1615 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 126: Feeding The Top Bar Hive and Uniting ColoniesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 126 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: I'm feeding the top bar hive and have a thorough explanation of uniting two colonies in preparation for Winter.GET TWO MONTHS FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MY CONTENT HEREFeatured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.I’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our podcasts for this season. Check out the full rang...
2020-10-0918 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 125: Wasps, Flighty Queens and Weak HivesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 125 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.In This Week's Podcast: We’ve had wasp attacks, new queens taking to the air and I’ve been pondering what to do with our weaker colonies, stay tuned to discover what I’m doing to deter those pesky wasps and how Lady Luck lent a hand with my beekeeping woes.GET TWO MONTHS FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO MY CONTENT HEREFeatured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hive...
2020-10-0217 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 124: New Jars and Gary's Hive Make-overHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 124 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. In This Week's Podcast: We’ve had a couple of exciting deliveries this week and stay tuned to hear how to get Autumn colonies to draw new foundation and all about Gary’s Hive Make Over.Featured Links In Today's Podcast:Honey Paw Hives - Designed by Beekeepers, For Beekeepers.Compak Honey JarsI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our podcasts for this season. Check ou...
2020-09-2517 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 123: Preparing for AutumnHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 123 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. If you’re worried about getting your bees prepared for Autumn and Winter then stay tuned for some simple advice to help take the worry out of those long Winter nights. Do take a look at the extra content available on my patreon page, that’s www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneyI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring, in part, our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’...
2020-09-1817 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 122: I'm Melting, I'm Melting!Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 122 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. Could it get any hotter? Well, actually yes it could, a sweltering week and it seems Mad Dogs and Beekeepers go out in the midday sun!Do take a look at the extra content available on my patreon page, that’s www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneyI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary...
2020-09-1114 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 121 - New Honey Room Set UpHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 121 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. Ah the sweet smell of Summer honey, it’s extraction time here at the Norfolk honey company so stay tuned to hear about our process and kit we use to make the job as easy as possible.Do take a look at the extra content available on my patreon page, that’s www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneyI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’r...
2020-09-0418 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 120: Collapsing Colony and Gary's HiveHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 120 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. The Summer nectar flow is all but done and I discover a colony rammed full of varroa and in danger of collapse.Do take a look at the extra content available on my patreon page, that’s www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneyI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hiv...
2020-08-2816 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 119: Starving Bees and Shocking HivesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 119 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, coming up this week, amazingly quite a number of my colonies are low on food in their brood boxes and I help out with a home-made beehive that’s gone rogue!Do take a look at the extra content available on my patreon page, that’s www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneyI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we...
2020-08-2116 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 117: Stings and ThingsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 117 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, With the weather turning cooler and rainy, it’s time to turn my attention to the new unit, preparations for the honey extraction at the end of the month, and I have a question for you, have you ever been stung!Catch up with my latest podcast hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season.Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re...
2020-08-0716 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 116: Late Queen Rearing and LawnmowersHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 116 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, Summer is here, our lime trees and blackberries are bursting with flowers and it’s time to benefit from the hard work of the Spring and early Summer. In other news I’m building a wall this week so stay tuned for my latest updates.Do take a look at the extra content available on my patreon page, that’s www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneyI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Ho...
2020-07-3114 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 115: Sneaky and Grumpy BeesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 115 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, Our Summer nectar flow is about to begin but this week I’ve had to contend with some sneaky and grumpy bees, listen in for stuff you just don’t find in the books.Catch up with my latest podcast hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season.Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their...
2020-07-1715 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 114: Chilly Blast, Solid Honey and More Truck TroublesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 114 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, Finally, We’ve had some rain, The Spring honey extraction has turned into a honey cut out and I’ve another tale of trouble with the truck.Sign up to every podcast as they are released hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hives this season courtes...
2020-07-1020 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 113: Sunny Days, Egg Laying Workers and Queen Rearing PlansHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 113 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, Honey Extraction has begun, the sun continues to shine, we start moving bees back to Summer sites this weekend and my queen rearing plans kick in next week.I’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hives this season courtesy of Honey Paw. Check out their range of hives and other...
2020-07-0316 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 112: New Queens and Delayed ExtractionHi I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 112 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. This week we’ve had some new queens to introduce and I’ve been forced to delay extracting our Spring honey harvest.I’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hives this season courtesy of Honey Paw. Check out their range of hives and other equipment on their website, I’ll leave a l...
2020-06-2618 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 111: Exciting News and Rising TemperaturesHi I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 111 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. So this week I’ll reveal the exciting news I have for you and with rising temperatures outside clipped queens have been both a blessing and a conundrum, they just don’t always do what you read in the books!Catch up with my latest podcast hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season.Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re settin...
2020-06-1917 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 109: Creating Multiple splits and The Virus Strikes BackHi I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 109 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. Multiple splits from one hive can help with quick increases in colony numbers, I have just the method to help. Also, viruses it seems are not just the domain of us humans. Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus has struck again and this time I’m taking decisive action, listen in to hear my thoughts and course of action.Sign up to listen to my very latest podcast hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcas...
2020-06-0518 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 108: Artificial Swarms Part TwoHi I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 108 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. It’s most definitely swarm season, I’ve lost one, gained two and split another colony. This week, more about artificial swarms and how to perform one without finding the queen.Check Out My Latest Podcasts HereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are, as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hives this season courtes...
2020-05-2915 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 106 - Preparing for SwarmsHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 106 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. During my inspections over the past week, I’ve noticed a few colonies starting to prepare for swarming. Stay tuned for my latest update and some suggestions for swarm season preparations.Sign Up to my latest podcasts HEREI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hives this season...
2020-05-1516 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 105 - Early Season InspectionsI’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 105 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. This week I’m in full inspection mode as we work our way through the hives and see how they’ve fared, start adding supers and carry out some vital disease inspections.Catch up with my very latest Podcasts, Videos and much more hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of...
2020-05-0815 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 103: Beekeeping and Social DistancingHi I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 103 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. My beekeeping continues despite the challenges of the coronavirus outbreak, listen in to catch up with my latest challenges as we head into the new season.Check out my latest podcast hereI’m grateful to Honey Paw hives for sponsoring in part our podcasts for this season. Honey Paw hives are as I’m sure you’re aware, Poly Langstroth hives and we’re setting up an apiary full of their hives this season courtesy of Honey Paw. Check out their...
2020-04-2416 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 100: Integrated Pest ManagementHi I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 100 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet. This week I’m starting a review of how to implement an Integrated Pest Management system in your apiary.Get the very latest Beekeeping podcast hereI’m really excited to be sharing my 100th podcast, I never thought I would reach the heady heights of 100 podcasts, it’s been a lot of fun, if not hard work, and I’m really grateful to everyone that tunes in and listens each week. This season my podcasts are sponsored in part by Honey P...
2020-04-0317 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 99: Getting Hives Ready For SpringHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 99 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet.Someone recently predict that Spring had arrived, well, with snow showers today and cooler weather ahead Winter still feels to have a grip. That shouldn’t stop us looking ahead and getting our bees in tip-top condition for the new season.Catch up with the very latest podcast as they are released hereHoney Paw Hives can be found online hereHoney Paw in the UK HereThis podcast is sponsored in part by Hone...
2020-03-2713 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 96: Feeding Fondant and Honey Paw HivesHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 96 of my podcast Beekeeping Short and sweet.Another very busy week, we’ve been scorching boxes, feeding fondant and the Honey Paw Hives have arrived and that’s got me super excited for the coming season.Find your local stockist of Zukan Apipasta Fondant Bee Feeds HereHoney Paw Hives can be found in the UK at Happy Valley Honey For Orders outside the UK contact Honey Paw directI am very grateful to both Happy Valley Honey and Honey Paw for...
2020-03-0613 min
Beekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 92 - Happy New Year 2020Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 92 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Happy New Year, My first podcast of 2020 and a chance to update you on the top bar hive project, Winter feeding and an exciting new collaboration for the coming season.I know it’s a cliche but where oh where did that year go? And what on earth is happening to the quiet time over this Winter period! It seems we’re now rushing towards the beginning of the beekeeping season and with so much work still...
2020-02-0715 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetEpisode 85: October Questions and AnswersHi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 85 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet, It’s the road to recovery for me and our regular monthly Questions and Answers session for everyone else!Firstly, Thank you, everyone, for your kind thoughts regarding my back problems, I’m hopeful that things are starting to settle down and normal service will soon be back. It’s been a frustrating period of time for me, and I really appreciate everyone’s messages of support, your patience and also some of those suggested remedies! But enough of my bad back, let’...
2019-11-2218 minBeekeeping - Short and SweetJune Beekeeping Questions and Answers S2:E22Hi, I’m Stewart Spinks and welcome to Episode 68 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet. The weeks are flying by quickly now as we rush headlong into June and It’s time for our monthly Questions and Answers roundup.If you'd like to support us and help us create more content please check out our Patreon page www.patreon.com/norfolkhoneySign up to my beekeeping newsletter at www.norfolk-honey.co.ukThe syrup I mention in the podcast can be found at Happy Valley Honey's Website HEREThe bees appear to have...
2019-06-2821 min