The latest buzz at the Crosby Arboretum in Picayune is focusing on a new program to be held Thursday.
Beekeeping For Beginners is an introductory class for those interested in caring for bees, Mississippi State University Assistant Extension/Research Professor Dr. Jeff Harris said.
Harris is leading the class from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Arboretum.
Harris said the class will focus on how to cultivate the most honey from each colony, rather than other topics such as pollination.
The course will also cover the basics of how to purchase proper equipment and bees, as well as common mistakes first-time beekeepers often make, he said.
Because of the time allotted, diseases and other more intermediate and advanced facets of the hobby won’t be covered, Harris said.
Some aspects of beekeeping Harris will cover include the need for a poly-floral diet. In order to keep the bees healthy and productive, they need a variety of plants to pollinate, including groundcover, flowers, bushes and trees, he said.
Keeping a variety of blooms in the garden for as many months as possible will also help ensure the bees have enough honey to last through the winter. With that in mind, Harris said beekeepers have to ensure they don’t harvest too much of the production and leave the insects without enough food for the cold months.
The Arboretum has its own colony that visitors can see along some of the walking trails, he said.
The program is free to members or $5 for non-members. All participants must register by June 28 by calling 601-799-2311. The Arboretum is located at 370 Ridge Road, Picayune.