13 MIN READ TIME

BUYING BEES

Happy, healthy honeybees of good survivor stock are crucial to a new hive’s success. BY KRISTINA MERCEDES URQUHART
DONETTE KOELZER/SHUTTERSTOCK

Each winter, beekeepers across the country place early orders for their bees. They choose either a nucleus colony (called a “nuc”) or a package of bees. These starter hives are in such high demand that reservations fill up quickly from the most reputable breeders. But how does a beginning beekeeper know who to buy from? and what should you expect when buying bees?

As a beginning beekeeper, starting with healthy bees of the right breed is crucial. Any beekeeper will tell you that genetics are essential to success. Several breeds of bees produce honey, and they’re bred for docility as well as honey production. Good genetics means your bees will start off right; they’ve been bred to be healthy and hardy, and to fight varroa mites. Finding bees with good “survivor stock” genetics means the bees will overwinter year to year in your region with success and vigor.

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