My 11 year old son and I are very new to beekeeping.  He got a hive on his
birthday (April 16).  An experienced beekeeper helped us check the hive a week
ago and everything looks good--the queen is laying, lots of brood, honey,
pollen, etc.  He told us to put on the second brood chamber in about a week
(today) if the weather had been warm and sunny--which it has, so we will do
that today.  When should we check to see about putting on the honey super (we
are using shallow frames as Mark is a kid and I have back trouble)?  We live in
the deep south (Jackson, MS) and have hot, hot summers.  How soon should I
check?  I don't want to upset the bees.  However, Mark is REALLY interested in
checking out the bees.  He had a really hard time waiting 2 1/2 weeks to check
them the first time!!!
 
We also need the name of a good beekeeping book for beginning beekeepers.
Suggestions are eagerly awaited!!
 
I would also like suggestions for good "bee" plants for my garden.  I am an
avid gardener, who became a beekeeper by default (but I am really loving it--I
sort of feel like a farmer!)
 
This list has been really helpful to me.
 
Florence and Mark Cooper, New Beekeepers!!