Marla’s Bee Happy Apiary

Marla’s Bee Happy Apiary and Farm started with about 4 acres in 2012 and purchased more land around 2017 to form the total 40 acres nestled between Jonesborough and Johnson City. Marla’s grandfather casually kept bees, and she followed in his footsteps by building up to 5 apiaries contains over 20 total hives. She prefers to catch swarms on her own property to reduce the risk of introducing disease to her existing bee population. Each wooden bee box is dipped in a natural wax to prevent moisture and weather from rotting the wood.

MBHA uses organic beekeeping practices to produce its honey - no synthetic chemicals are used in the hives or in frame storage - and estimates her yearly honey production at about 600 pounds. When she works in the hives, she only uses smoke when necessary. Her flock of 40 chickens are also raised as naturally as possible, with a large area to roam during the day. She has various breeds to give multicolored eggs. She and her husband also grow produce for themselves using organic methods. If there’s a surplus, she’ll also offer that for sale.

“I started keeping chickens and bees when the kids left home. I found that I still wanted, in a way, to be a mother!” -Marla Merrick, owner/operator

Customers interested in bulk ordering or ordering direct from Marla should call 423.753.6611.