First Hive Setup Checklist

You picked up your bees — congratulations! Here's exactly what you need to get them set up right. These are the same products we use and recommend to every beekeeper we deliver to across six states.

Disclosure: Links on this page are affiliate links. We earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep delivering bees and free beekeeping education to the northern Plains.

The Hive

Complete Hive Kit (Best for Beginners)

If you're starting from scratch, a complete kit is the easiest path. It includes the boxes, frames, foundation, covers, and bottom board — everything except the bees.

Shop Hive Kits on Amazon →

Individual Components

• ☐ Deep Hive Body (9⅝") — You need at least 2 for brood. Amazon →
• ☐ Medium Super (6⅝") — For honey storage. Start with 1-2. Amazon →
• ☐ Frames with Foundation — 10 per box. We recommend waxed plastic. Amazon →
• ☐ Telescoping Cover + Inner Cover Amazon →
• ☐ Bottom Board with Entrance Reducer Amazon →
• ☐ Queen Excluder Amazon →
• ☐ Hive Stand Amazon →

Essential Tools

• ☐ Bee Smoker — 4"×7" stainless steel is the standard. Amazon →
• ☐ Hive Tool — J-hook style is our preference. Amazon →
• ☐ Bee Brush Amazon →

Protective Gear

Don't skimp here. A good suit or jacket with a veil is non-negotiable, especially your first year.

• ☐ Ventilated Bee Suit or Jacket Amazon →
• ☐ Leather Beekeeping Gloves Amazon →
• ☐ Veil — If you buy a jacket instead of a full suit. Amazon →

Feeding

Your new colony needs supplemental feeding for the first few weeks while they draw comb and build up. This is critical — don't skip it.

• ☐ Feeder — Frame feeder or top feeder. Amazon →
• ☐ Sugar — Plain white cane sugar, 1:1 with water for spring. Your local grocery store.
• ☐ Pollen Substitute Patties Amazon →

Varroa Mite Treatment (You WILL Need This)

Varroa mites are the #1 killer of honey bee colonies. Plan to do your first mite check by mid-July and treat by August. Read our full Varroa Treatment Guide →

• ☐ Varroa EasyCheck Amazon →
• ☐ Apivar — Gold standard fall treatment. Amazon →
• ☐ Formic Pro — Can use during honey flow. Amazon →