Springtime for beekeepers is synonymous with starting new colonies, especially since winter losses have been hovering ~25% every year so that beekeepers need to recoup their numbers. There are three main ways to start new colonies of honey bees. The most recommended method is to make or purchase a local nucleus colony (“nuc”) from an authorized vendor, which typically includes five frames of brood, food stores, and a laying queen. These can be pricy (although well worth the cost), but their...

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