The aim of biodynamic beekeeping is “to minimize stress factors and allow bees to develop in accordance with their true nature.”
Biodynamic beekeeping is different from other beekeeping or bee-stewarding methods in that it aims to minimize environmental stress factors while allowing bees to develop in accordance with their true nature.
Some of the methods that enable this:
– Natural combs are used, rather than foundation.
– Swarming is recognized as the natural form of colony reproduction.
– Clipping of queen’s wings is prohibited.
– Regular and systematic queen replacement is prohibited.
– Pollen substitutes are prohibited.
– Beehives must be made of all natural materials, such as wood, straw, or clay.
– Artificial insemination is not used. Instead queens are allowed to fly free to mate.
– Grafting of larvae to produce queens is prohibited.
– No pesticides or antibiotics are allowed, although the use of natural organic acids such as formic and oxalic acid may be used for mite control.
– Honey may be transported in containers made of artificial materials but must be decanted into containers of glass or metal for retail sale.
– Take surplus honey from the hive is allowed only in the spring after the bees use what they need.