CHAPTER VI 



THE APIARY. 



In selecting a site for an apiary, we prefer to have the ground 

 deccend slightly to the east or south.. The hives should be pro- 

 tected in winter and spring from the prevailing winds, either by 

 buildings, trees, fences or other breakwind. Although we 

 prefer, when convenient, to have our hives front the east or 

 south, it is of little consequence as far as the prosperity of the 

 bees is concerned. The hives should be sheltered from the rays 

 of the noonday sun, except in April and May, when much 

 warmth is needed to promote breeding. Care should be taken 

 not to place hives against old buildings or fences, which form a 

 congenial harbor for bugs, spiders, ants and other insects. Each 

 stock should have a separate stand, and there is no danger of 

 getting the hives too far apart. It is most convenient to have 

 the hive3 near the ground. From five to ten inches is nigh 

 enough for stands if means are taken to keep down the grass 

 and weeds. A cheap and good stand is made by taking two 

 pieces of four inch scantling fifteen inches long, and nailing upon 

 them a board twenty inches long by fifteen wide. If a higher 

 stand be preferred, take, instead of the scantling, two pieces of 

 joist two inches by six, or four pieces of board may be nailed 



