Installing a honeybee nuc

Follow along as I install a honeybee nuc (or nucleus) hive. A nuc is a 4-5 frame mini-hive that includes a queen. I transfer my new hive into a regular brood box. both nuc and packages bees are a good way to start a new hive. But our springs tend to be late and cold. Nucs can get you a stronger start than a package of bees because it means less spring feeding during cold weather.

I don't win any prizes for a speedy install, but these are the steps I follow to get a nuc situated in a new hive. Make sure all of your hiveware is in place and ready to go before you install your bees.

10:00 I open the hive to check how bees are adjusting 3 days after install.