We raise queens and nucs as part of our sustainable apiary operations. While we have raised all sorts of bees, we have landed on Varroa-Sensitive – Hygienic (VSH) Italians. These are bees that are gentle, great producers, and robust. We purchase artificially inseminated (AI) queens from top breeders to graft from, and raise in a Michael Palmer based process. Queens are open mated locally.
Queens
2025 queen season is almost here.
We have exciting plans for 2025: expanding on our VHS-local breeding plans, travel to learn instrumental insemination, expanding assays in collaboration with Lincoln Land Community College to increase VSH alleles, and much more.
We will have cells (orders of 5 or more only), newly mated queens, and 6-week super queens (evaluated for brood pattern and hive acceptance) available for purchase.
Online order forms will be available February.
Nucs
Look for our Spring Splits available starting mid-April. We guarantee our bees are 100% from local bees and queens, with local genetics enhanced by VSH-breeders (including Dr. Harbo lines).
We will be offering Spring Splits as 5-frame nucs in a robust, painted swarm box for a total of $235. Availability is first come, first served. Pick-up only (Springfield location). Nonrefundable $50 deposits will be applied on pickup.
PSBK members may purchase spring splits as discussed through the club – please look for details in the newsletter.