About the Author

Kristi Cook

Kristi Cook lives in Arkansas where every year brings something new to her family’s journey for a more sustainable lifestyle. She keeps a flock of laying hens, dairy goats, a rapidly growing apiary, a large garden, and more. When she’s not busy with the critters and veggies, you can find her sharing sustainable living skills through her workshops, articles, and blog at tenderheartshomestead.com.
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Articles by Kristi Cook

Making Splits: Nucleus Colony
September 1, 2022 · · Hives & Equipment

Making a nucleus colony is a simple skill that any beekeeper at any stage can readily accomplish when keeping a few basics in mind.

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Varroa Treatments Explained
August 26, 2022 · · Health & Pests

Treatments to combat varroa vary. This article will help you start your quest to select the best varroa treatments for your apiary and management practices.

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When to Cull a Colony
August 17, 2022 · · Hives & Equipment

The good news is culling is usually not necessary. Read on to discover when to cull a diseased colony and when to try other methods first. 

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First Year Honey Extraction Equipment
August 17, 2022 · · Hives & Equipment

New honey extraction equipment isn’t necessary for the first year, so here’s a rundown of what to consider when starting the extraction process.

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Queen Introduction
August 6, 2022 · · Beekeeping 101

Introducing new queens is a beekeeping skill that anyone can master on their first try when they keep just a few tips in mind.

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Walkaway Splits
August 6, 2022 · · Beekeeping 101

The good news is, making splits is nearly as simple as unstacking boxes on moving day with walkaway splits, so keep your cash in your pocket and read on to discover the simplicity of this new skill.

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Honey Extractors Explained
August 6, 2022 · · Hives & Equipment

Variety is the common thread among us and honey extractors are no exception. Here’s a quick rundown on what to look for when selecting a honey extractor.

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When to Use an Outyard
June 29, 2022 · · Beekeeping 101

You enjoy walking to your backyard and visiting your hives any time you’d like, right? They’re close, accessible, and convenient.

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Conduct an Alcohol Wash for Varroa Mite Monitoring
June 9, 2022 · · Health & Pests

Of the many techniques possible, the alcohol wash for varroa mite counts is currently considered the most accurate.

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Are Queen Excluders a Good Idea?
June 3, 2022 · · Beekeeping Lifestyle Topics

If you enjoy a good debate, ask 10 beekeepers what they think about queen excluders. As is typical in the beekeeping community, within seconds, you’ll receive 10 different answers.

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