Smoker

A smoker is used in beekeeping practice before a hive is opened. The smoker introduces cool smoke, which can be created by burning suitable materials, such as newspaper, cardboard, dried grass cuttings and old hessian sacking. When using a smoker, watch out for hot ash!

Here Phil Chandler recommends 3 handy pocket sized beekeeping tools you can keep in your pockets – including a powder puffer, which is especially useful because it can be used one-handed. The powder puffer is filled with icing sugar (powdered sugar) and is used on the bees to calm the bees whilst reducing stress. It will also encourage them to groom which is a good natural defense against Varroa mites.

Gardening for bees.