Inform, Describe, Discuss
What does "natural beekeeping" mean? What are it's defining factors? What are the advantages and disadvantages to the beekeeper? What are the benefits for bees? Please discuss below!
A quick google indicates that the definition of 'natural' means existing in or derived from nature; not made or caused by humankind.
Whilst I am relatively new to Bee Custodianship (this life-time) I am already shocked by the depth of how 'corporate procedures and practices' are reflected in the levels of beekeeping, whether it be a back-yard beekeeper or on a large scale organisation setup. I personally feel that we need to forget about any form of beekeeping practices established since the Industrial Revolution and return to the ancient ways and practices of beekeeping.
Returning to truly natural beekeeping would mean:
* Hives are more considerate in design of Bees natural behaviour and patterns (ie/ the Perone design hive http://www.biobees.com/library/hive_perone/Making-a-Perone-Hive.pdf )
* Bringing the focus back into balance from all about honey production to honey being a bonus and it being all about pollination
* No sugar water feeding practices
* No human intervention of Queen management
* Little disturbance of the Hive for inspections
* Allowing the Bees to build their own comb
* Being mindful of Hive placement in the environment
* Treating the Hive with reverence and with awe
* As beekeepers we are responsible for ensuring that there is adequate Bee Food and water available in our gardens and surrounds
* Finding alternative sustainable methods of weed and pest control in our gardens and surrounds
I am willing as a beekeeper to be humbled enough for all the advantages to be for the Bees sake.
