Beekeeping Program in Apex
Turnkey rooftop & onsite hives for workplaces, schools, and residences across Charlotte. Build connection, spark curiosity, and create a lasting local impact—with raw honey to show for it.
WHY BUDDHA BEE?
LOCAL EXPERIENCE
We have a combined 10+ years of beekeeping experience in North Carolina. We’re committed to the communities we work in.
LOCAL BEES
We don’t import bees from other states or countries. Instead, we raise the healthiest bees and queens possible in house.
LOCAL PARTNERS
When you work with us, you support the local economy and small businesses that supply our equipment.
mAKE A MEASURABLE IMPACT
Further your sustainability efforts in a tangible way that your family, employees, and partners will be inspired by.
THE HOST-A-HIVE PROCESS
How does IT work?
1. ASSESSMENT
Schedule a property assessment to determine if your yard is suitable to host a hive. We’ll help select a spot that’s safe for you and the bees.
2. INSTALLATION
We’ll bring a locally crafted hive with a queen and thousands of worker bees. Invite your neighbors, it’s a lot of fun to watch!
3. INSPECTIONS
Every few weeks, we stop by to check on the health of the colony. We’ll update you on how they’re doing. Better yet, get hands-on with us if you’d like!
4. HARVEST
We’re not in it for the honey, but it sure is nice. When your colony has made a surplus, we’ll harvest, extract, and bottle it for you.
BACKYARD BEEKEEPING FAQs
Have any questions? Ask away.
Is it safe to have a hive in my backyard?
We work with a species of honeybee known for being extremely docile. Many of our hosts are shocked when they see how gentle bees are during our Host-a-Hive visits. Remember, bees die when they sting, so they generally only do so as a last resort when they feel threatened. We do everything we can to ensure a safe, fun experience during our visits. This includes reminding you and your guests to never swat at bees, keep a safe distance, and avoid using machinery such as lawnmowers too close to the hive.
How much space do I need if I want to host a hive?
Not much at all! Ideally, a backyard hive should have at least 5 of space in front of its entrance. Think of this as a “runway” where bees can fly in and out without obstructions. The back of the hive should have about 3 to 5 feet of space for the beekeeper to work comfortably.
Where do your bees come from?
Our goal is to raise resilient bees that are adapted to our local environment. To accomplish this, we avoid importing bees from out of state. Instead, we split our healthiest colonies and propagate their genetics. Prior to being installed in backyards, our bees pollinate crops at Inter-Faith Food Shuttle Farm in Raleigh, which provides locally grown, chemical-free produce for those in need. We also raise our own queens and purchase all of our woodenware locally.
I have children and/or pets—is it safe to have a hive?
Yes! As long as good beekeeping practices are followed, it is perfectly safe to host a hive with children and pets. The hive’s location is an important factor and should not be placed directly next to a dog kennel or children’s play structures. During our Host-a-Hive installation, we’ll demonstrate how to move safely around bees! Generally, bees will only sting in self-defense, so bee kind and try not to step on them and you will be fine. We’ll also provide any necessary beekeeping safety equipment and gear if you or your kids would like to get up close and hands-on.
What if I do not have a garden?
No worries! Honey bees will forage up to 3 miles away from their hive. That said, we find many hosts become avid gardeners after signing up for our service. We’d be happy to share resources if you’re interested in planting more food for your bees.
Can I watch when my hive is being worked on?
Absolutely! We started Buddha Bee Apiary to share our love of honey bees with others. During every visit, our beekeepers are there to take care of the colony and educate anyone interested in the hive's inner workings.
I have more questions!
Great, we’d love to answer them! Submit a request for a property inspection. There’s no obligation. We’d be happy to walk through any questions you may have.