Information about honey
The Stages of a Worker Bee’s Life: From Egg to Forager A worker bee’s life is short, but remarkably organised. From the moment she begins developing inside a wax cell, her role is shaped by the needs of the colony. Every worker bee is female. Unlike the queen, she does not normally lay eggs. Instead, … Read more
Responsible Honey Harvesting in South Africa Responsible honey harvesting in South Africa starts with a simple rule: bees must come first. A careful bee farmer only removes honey that the colony can afford to lose, while leaving enough food for cold weather, poor forage periods, brood rearing, and colony recovery. This matters because honey is … Read more
Why Honey Costs More Honey is heavier than it looks, and that weight affects how it is bottled, labelled, transported, handled, and priced. A one-litre jar of honey does not weigh the same as a one-litre bottle of water, juice, or milk, which is one reason honey often feels expensive when compared with other liquids. … Read more
Stellenbosch Honey and Vita Bee Stellenbosch in the Western Cape is one of South Africa’s most diverse honey regions. Vineyards, orchards, eucalyptus belts, and indigenous fynbos create a nectar landscape that produces distinctive raw honey varieties throughout the year. Within this environment, local honey farms and farm stalls supply both residents and visitors with fresh, … Read more
How Honeybee Colonies Coordinate Behaviour Honeybee colonies operate as highly organised units. Each bee contributes to the survival of the colony through structured roles and sophisticated communication. This coordination underpins every collective activity, including defence, foraging, brood care and environmental adaptation. Understanding how colonies work together helps explain why bees sometimes sting — not as … Read more
Varroa Control Strategies for South African Beekeepers Varroa mites (Varroa destructor) are among the most serious threats to honeybee colonies worldwide. In South Africa, these parasites are a constant challenge for beekeepers, particularly during the seasonal shifts when colonies are vulnerable. Understanding how varroa mites affect bees, how to identify infestations, and what management strategies … Read more
Best Winter-Flowering Plants for Bees in South Africa Winter in South Africa (April–July) brings fewer flowers, but certain plants provide critical nectar and pollen. Knowing which species support bees helps beekeepers position colonies and improve survival. Top Winter Forage Plants 1. Aloes (Aloe ferox, Aloe arborescens) 2. Eucalyptus 3. Wild dagga (Leonotis leonurus) 4. Fynbos … Read more
How to Feed Bees: Syrup, Fondant, and Pollen Substitutes Explained Feeding bees is a key management practice in South Africa, especially in winter when natural forage is limited. Knowing when and how to feed ensures colonies survive and thrive. Sugar Syrup Fondant and Dry Sugar Pollen Substitutes Feeding in South African Seasons Risks of Poor … Read more
Bee Sting Behaviour Explained Bee stings are a defensive mechanism, not a random act of aggression. Understanding why bees sting, what happens after a sting, and how humans react helps beekeepers, outdoor workers, and nature enthusiasts stay safe around hives in South Africa. Why Bees Sting The primary motivation for stinging is defence. Honeybees sting … Read more
