Hi Folks - some news regarding the package bees for this season.
I have heard from 2 separate sources now that several Nuc and at least two package bee suppliers will not be selling this season due to very high demand in the almond orchards. Some growers are now paying $175 to $200 per hive for pollination.
How does this affect us? It means that my phone and email are very busy with orders from folks who don't usually purchase from us. In some cases these folks will be driving several hundred miles to pick up their bees. That's great - my first priority / preference, however, is to sell to all of you first.
I know the weather has no really been conducive to inspections, but, if you feel you are going to need bees for this season please give me a call as soon as you can. I will have to have a final count by the end of the first week in April, HOWEVER, the way things are going now I will most likely be sold out well before then.
The estimate as to when the bees will arrive is still sometime from the 3rd week of April to the first week of May depending on mother nature.
Beekeeping Class - Wilmore Garden Center - Saturday, March 16 - 10a - 2p
Lunch provided - call 303.795.5339 to reserve
http://wilmorenurseries.com/classesspecial-events/3-3.5# packages w/ queen: - $110 / package - same price as last year - with breaks at the 10s.
Packages are required to be prepaid by check or money order.
25# bags of granulated sugar: $17 - same price as last year.
New colonies will need approx. 100 lbs/colony to feed the entire first season or until the 2 deep hive bodies are filled out.
Pollen substitute patties: $2.50 - same price as last year.
Most colonies will consume 6-12 patties per season as weather - drought - requires.
We will again offer "beginner" kits built to the needs and budget of the beginner - call for pricing.
Thank you for considering us again for your packages this year. We appreciate you trust.
Steven Lechner
Busy Bee Farm
PO Box 41
Larkspur, CO 80118
303.657.5360
