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 Line

00:04 Introduction to the Garden Question Podcast

00:39 Meet the Host and Today's Guest: Charlotte Ecker Wiggins

00:42 Exploring the Intersection of Beekeeping and Gardening

01:08 The Secrets of Blue Bird Gardens

01:34 Charlotte's Journey as a Master Beekeeper and Gardener

02:33 The Importance of Understanding Plant Life for Beekeepers

03:21 The Role of Pollinators in the Garden Ecosystem

03:45 The Myth of the Peaceful Garden

05:10 The Role of Honeybees in Gardening

06:14 The Importance of Planting for Pollinators

09:40 The Connection Between Gardening and Beekeeping

12:00 The Role of Birds in a Healthy Bee Population

15:35 The Importance of Soil in Gardening and Beekeeping

16:46 The Challenges and Rewards of Beekeeping

19:32 The Role of Bees in the Garden Ecosystem

32:23 The Importance of Understanding Bee Behavior for Beekeepers

38:01 Understanding the Life of Bees

38:31 The Role of a Beekeeper

39:08 The Concept of Bee Space

39:44 The Process of Bee Swarming

39:50 The Life Cycle of a Queen Bee

40:41 The Fascinating Process of Bee Colony Decision Making

41:11 Understanding Swarm Cells and Supersedure Cells

41:58 The Journey of a Bee Swarm

45:14 The Role of Bee Clubs

47:17 The Importance of Beekeeping Education

53:25 The Importance of Understanding Soil in Gardening

01:01:54 The Connection Between Bees and Gardening

01:08:17 The Importance of Patience in Gardening

01:11:47 The Role of Observation in Gardening