147 - Resolving the Bee Keepers and Gardeners Dilemma - Charlotte Ekker Wiggins

In today's enlightening discussion, Charlotte Ekker Wiggins takes us on a journey through the fascinating intersection of beekeeping and gardening. She breaks down the perceived barriers between these two practices and highlights their inherent connections. Get ready to explore the importance of pollinators and the balance required to nurture their environment.We'll delve into the secrets of Bluebird Gardens, a place Charlotte fondly describes as a hub for 'murder, mayhem, and mysteries,' where diverse creatures and plants coexist in harmony. Charlotte emphasizes the need for beekeepers to understand the intricacies of plant life, and for gardeners to grasp the fundamentals of pollination.Charlotte is a Certified Master Beekeeper and Master Gardener Emeritus. She has turned a seemingly barren Missouri hillside into an award-winning haven for both bees and blooms.Her garden, aptly named Bluebird Gardens, not only thrives against all odds but has also transformed into a certified wildlife habitat and Monarch Way station. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Charlotte is also an author and runs a custom gift business inspired by her sustainable practices.Charlotte shares insights into the captivating swarming process in honeybee colonies and unveils potential educational resources for aspiring beekeepers.Charlotte's Books"A Beekeeper's Diary; ​Self-Guide to Beekeeping 2nd Edition""Bee Club Basics; How to Start a Bee Club" 2nd Edition"Bees Need Flowers; Planting for Pollinators" Coming Soon!Time Line00:04 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast00:39 Meet the Host and Today's Guest: Charlotte Ecker Wiggins00:42 Exploring the Intersection of Beekeeping and Gardening01:08 The Secrets of Blue Bird Gardens01:34 Charlotte's Journey as a Master Beekeeper and Gardener02:33 The Importance of Understanding Plant Life for Beekeepers03:21 The Role of Pollinators in the Garden Ecosystem03:45 The Myth of the Peaceful Garden05:10 The Role of Honeybees in Gardening06:14 The Importance of Planting for Pollinators09:40 The Connection Between Gardening and Beekeeping12:00 The Role of Birds in a Healthy Bee Population15:35 The Importance of Soil in Gardening and Beekeeping16:46 The Challenges and Rewards of Beekeeping19:32 The Role of Bees in the Garden Ecosystem32:23 The Importance of Understanding Bee Behavior for Beekeepers38:01 Understanding the Life of Bees38:31 The Role of a Beekeeper39:08 The Concept of Bee Space39:44 The Process of Bee Swarming39:50 The Life Cycle of a Queen Bee40:41 The Fascinating Process of Bee Colony Decision Making41:11 Understanding Swarm Cells and Supersedure Cells41:58 The Journey of a Bee Swarm45:14 The Role of Bee Clubs47:17 The Importance of Beekeeping Education53:25 The Importance of Understanding Soil in Gardening01:01:54 The Connection Between Bees and Gardening01:08:17 The Importance of Patience in Gardening01:11:47 The Role of Observation in Gardening