Other Branches of Agriculture as Side Lines to Beekeeping
It is quite possible to combine beekeeping with other branches of agriculture, provided they do not necessitate much attention at the time when the bees require every care and thought of the beekeeper. General farming and beekeeping do not combine well, for the reason that swarming usually comes at a season when the farmer is busily engaged with his cropping. However, you might, as a bee specialist, form a business combination with the farmer and develop a paying apiary, and also give attention to some useful side lines. Gardening, fruits, poultry, Belgian hares, flowers, etc., combine profitably with beekeeping, but before engaging in any combinations, careful inquiry should be made of successful beekeepers of the region regarding the time of the principal honey flows. Information should be obtained also from persons following the suggested side lines as to when these occupations require most attention. This will enable one to determine the best combination to adopt. The beekeeper who neglects his bees during swarming time, or when nectar is coming in freely, may expect to lose fully nine-tenths of the crop. Honey, like hay, must be made while the sun shines. Side lines must not interfere with the apiarist being ready, with colonies strong, when the sun shines sufficiently to cause honey plants to bloom and nectar to flow freely.
Many garden crops may be grown and small truck farming may be followed on areas located in close proximity to the apiary. Crops should be selected that will require the least amount of time when the apiarist is busiest with the bees. The tomato, greatly in demand for canning supply, does not materially interfere in its planting, cultivation, or harvest with the principal honey season.