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Welcome to my beekeeping journey—a buzzing adventure into the world of honeybees, hives, and the sweet rewards of nature’s hardest workers. Whether you’re a curious beginner eager to don your first veil or a seasoned apiarist looking for fresh insights, this blog is your hive of inspiration. From practical tips on nurturing colonies to the magic of harvesting golden honey, I’m here to share the lessons I’ve learned, one sting at a time. Let’s dive into the hum of beekeeping together!

Harry’s Beekeeping Blog

The latest news and information from the Stewart Harry.

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Feeding Bees for Winter: Why Honey Matters and How Much Is Too Much?

Excerpt: "Illuminating Excellence: The Benefits of Beeswax Candles from Frogmouth Ponds"
As autumn deepens here in Port Sorell, Tasmania, and the days grow shorter, my beekeeping focus shifts toward preparing my hives for the cooler months ahead. This week, a reader posed an excellent question: “How much is too much when feeding bees to replace their stores?” To answer this, we must first understand why bees collect nectar and transform it into honey—a process central to their survival—and then consider our responsibility as beekeepers when we harvest their reserves.

This blog post will cover the following:

  • The Purpose of Nectar and Honey in the Hive

  • Harvesting Honey: A Beekeeping Responsibility

  • How Much Is Too Much?

  • Striking the Balance

I hope you enjoy reading it!

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Illuminating Excellence: The Benefits of Beeswax Candles from Frogmouth Ponds

Excerpt: "Illuminating Excellence: The Benefits of Beeswax Candles from Frogmouth Ponds"
Beeswax candles, crafted from the natural wax of honeybee hives, offer a sustainable and elegant alternative to synthetic options. At Frogmouth Ponds, we harness this remarkable by-product to create candles that burn cleanly, purify the air, and emit a subtle, honey-like fragrance. Discover how these candles enhance your home while supporting beekeeping and environmental health—explore their unique advantages in our latest post.

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Am I Being Robbed?

Am I Being Robbed? Signs of Robbing in Beehives

In March, as Australia transitions to autumn, bees shift from foraging to fortifying their hives for cooler months. Yet, this season also brings the risk of bee robbing—when invading bees plunder weaker colonies. How can you tell? Look for masses of bees chaotically clashing at the hive entrance, erratic flight patterns, and signs of combat as defenders fight off intruders. At Frogmouth Ponds, I’ve learned to spot these signs early. Curious about protecting your hive? Read on for insights and strategies to safeguard your bees.

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Sugar Syrup Mix

Struggling to keep your bees thriving in Australia’s unpredictable seasons? Sugar syrup is your secret weapon! In this post, we break down the 1:1 and 2:1 ratios—when to use them, how to mix them, and why entrance feeding is a no-go. From boosting brood in spring to prepping for winter dearth, learn the simple steps to keep your hive buzzing. Ready to mix it up? Dive in!

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Best Winter Feeding Options for Australian Beekeepers

Winter’s coming, and as a new beekeeper in Port Sorell, Tasmania, I’m figuring out how to feed my bees through the cooler months. Sugar syrup or honey frames—which is best? In this post, I compare both options for winter feeding in Australia. Sugar syrup’s cheap and easy—while honey frames offer natural nutrition, perfect for Tassie’s chill. I break down the steps and basic cost, plus share what works for my hive. Curious about keeping bees humming through winter? Read on for tips and my newbie insights!

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Preparing for Your First Beehive: Choosing the Perfect Spot

Begin by placing the bottom board on a dry, level area, ideally facing south. Stack the brood chambers filled with frames on top, and include a feeder frame with sugar syrup to support the bees as they establish their new home. Ensure proper ventilation and insulation to create a thriving environment for your colony.

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The Benefits of Beeswax Candles and Using Natural Tasmanian Beeswax

Discover the natural magic of beeswax candles - nature's air purifiers that release a warm, golden glow and subtle honey scent. Unlike paraffin candles, these clean-burning wonders neutralize pollutants as they illuminate, creating a cozy sanctuary in any space. Experience the difference of beeswax candles and honor the incredible work of thousands of industrious bees with every flicker of light.

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DIY Honey and Beeswax Lip Balm Recipe

Create your own nourishing beeswax lip balm with just a few natural ingredients. This easy DIY project results in a soothing, moisturizing balm that’s perfect for keeping your lips soft and smooth all year round.

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The Health Benefits Of Manuka Honey

Discover the unique power of Tasmanian manuka honey, harvested from the pristine wilderness of Australia's island state. This golden elixir boasts potent antibacterial properties thanks to its high methylglyoxal (MGO) content, making it a natural wonder for both culinary and health applications.

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Magical Manuka Honey

Discover the unique power of Tasmanian manuka honey, harvested from the pristine wilderness of Australia's island state. This golden elixir boasts potent antibacterial properties thanks to its high methylglyoxal (MGO) content, making it a natural wonder for both culinary and health applications.

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Stewart Harry Stewart Harry

Tasmanian Leatherwood

Discover the unique flavor of Tasmanian leatherwood honey, harvested from the pristine wilderness of Australia's island state. This golden elixir boasts a distinctive spicy-floral taste and aroma, derived from the nectar of ancient leatherwood trees found only in Tasmania's remote rainforests. Rich in antioxidants and possessing natural antibacterial properties, leatherwood honey is not just a delicious treat but also a potential health powerhouse.

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