Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
funnel directly into a package, add a queen and feeder can, close the package, and it's
ready to be shipped.
The nuc producer has taken much of the gamble out of starting a colony. When you
purchase a nuc, its queen has been in that colony laying eggs for a minimum of a month
and as long as several months. This amount of time lets the nuc producer evaluate her
production and behavior, and replace her, on his time and dime, rather than you hoping
the queen is a good queen, and the bees are healthy and there's going to be enough food.
At the time of this writing there aren't nearly as many nuc producers as there are
package producers, but their numbers are increasing every season. Your sources of nucs
should have queens that have been producing for at least a month, or even better, sever-
al months. The one word of caution is equipment compatibility. Many, but not all, nuc
producers use deep boxes rather than mediums for raising their nucs. You can get a deep
box to accommodate a deep nuc and move them into mediums during the season.
How to Start with a Nuc Colony
You will need to transport your nuc home from the supplier. Generally it is secure and
bees will not be leaking, but be prepared for a few stray bees in your car. If you are
concerned, drive it home in a truck, or wear a veil.
Have your equipment ready before you leave. Review the information on package
installation (page 86). You will need boxes ready on a hive stand, feeders and feed, en-
trance reducer, smoker and hive tool, and inner and outer cover.
No matter the weather, bring your nuc to your hive as soon as you are home. Put on
your bee suit and veil, light your smoker, and remove the covers of your colony.
Your nuc may be made of wood and have all the parts of a hive, only in size five instead
of eight or ten.
T
RANSFERRING
F
RAMES INTO
Y
OUR
C
OLONY
Transferring Frames into Your Colony Remove the middle six frames in your box and
set them alongside the box. Set the nuc alongside the colony. Puff a few puffs of smoke
