Package or NUC?
Last year, I was completely clueless about where to buy bees or how to go about it. A friend recommended a nearby feed store that offered bee packages, so I decided to give it a try. Since then, I’ve expanded my knowledge about bees, including NUCs. NUCs are essentially bee packages that contain several frames of brood, honey, and a queen that has already been accepted by the hive.
Bee packages are generally less expensive and have a designated pickup date, which is often earlier than that of a NUC. When starting with a package, you’ll use new frames unless you have an existing hive. The bees will first need to construct comb on each frame before they can begin storing honey and the queen can start laying eggs.
NUCs are priced higher since they come with an established structure, including comb, brood, and honey, which simplifies the installation process. Their success rate is generally better than that of packages. However, they tend to be available later than packages, and advance notice of their pickup date may be limited. Additionally, the older comb may harbor pests or diseases, depending on the care provided by the previous beekeeper.
Initially, I intended to buy a NUC the next time I needed bees. However, after considering the advantages and disadvantages of both options, I ultimately chose to stick with a package from my local feed store once more. Here’s my reasoning. The reliable beekeepers in my region were uncertain about when their NUCs would be ready, as it depends on their hive schedules. With several camping trips planned in May, my main concern was the uncertainty around when I’d need to pick them up. I didn’t mind paying a premium for them. I truly enjoyed my bees from last year; they were incredibly gentle, so I liked the idea of choosing the Canolian/Italian blend again. The NUCs I was considering were either one type or the other. I also had frames from last seasons bees so I knew my 2 new hives would have an advantage over last years hive.
Regarding the source of your packages, I initially questioned whether I chose the best provider since they seemed lacking in beekeeping knowledge. However, after a class, I learned that all the local beekeeping suppliers source their packages from the same breeders in California. So, it turns out that the vendor choice is less significant, provided that there aren’t many dead bees in the package and that the queen is alive. The local feed store ensures quality by employing a beekeeper to inspect each package before distribution. I trust this company because they have her on-site to oversee everything the morning of pickup.
They’re just a quick ten-minute drive from my home, and since they had a smooth pickup experience last year, I chose to go with them again this year. I’ll keep you updated on how this year’s hives are doing as the year progresses.
