Added a beehive to the South Lawn of the White House
The White House added miniature beehives to the south lawn to promote honey production and pollination.
A new addition to the South Lawn is making waves at the White House, but it’s not just for show.
First lady Melania Trump installed a beehive on her property, raising questions about its purpose and whether the honey will be made available to the public.
Here’s what we know as the first lady and president unveiled new beehives for King Charles III and Queen Camilla on Tuesday.
Why did Melania Trump install a beehive in the shape of the White House?
The White House beekeeping program began in 2009, with the first lady’s expansion adding two new bee colonies in addition to the two existing bee colonies.
The purpose is to support the production of the White House’s signature honey, which the White House says has a “light clover and basswood flavor with a hint of citrus.”
Optimism is that the number of bees could reach 70,000 and that at peak production they would produce up to 255 pounds of honey.
Officials say the new installation will also serve as an educational facility for South Lawn visitors.
Can I buy White House honey?
Not exactly.
The honey will be used to prepare meals for the White House, as well as gifts from the president and first lady.
White House chefs use this honey to “sweeten tea, prepare salad dressings, and make desserts.”
The new hive will also benefit the White House by “supporting charitable donations of healthy food to local kitchens,” according to a news release.
The White House has not said whether the honey will be available for purchase.
