5-Frame Nucleus Colony Pre-Orders 
 
Sandy Acres Homestead
 
We are taking limited pre-orders for 5-frame honey bee nucleus colonies (nucs) for spring 2026.
 
These colonies are built from healthy overwintered stock and include Indiana-raised queens adapted to Midwest conditions.
 
Pickup will be May 2026. Exact pickup dates will be announced once spring buildup is confirmed.
 
Because bees are livestock and colony numbers depend on winter survival and spring weather, quantities are limited.
 
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What You Receive
 
Each nuc includes:
 
• A 5-frame nucleus colony in a transport nuc box
• Indiana-raised, mated queen (2026)
• Frames containing:
– brood in multiple stages
– honey and pollen stores
– drawn comb
• A laying, established colony ready to transfer into your hive
 
Colonies are inspected before pickup to confirm a laying queen and healthy brood pattern.
 
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Pickup Information
 
Pickup will take place in May 2026.
Exact dates and time windows will be announced closer to spring.
 
Bees must be picked up during the scheduled pickup window.
 
Please bring:
 
• A ratchet strap or hive strap
• A vehicle with a flat surface to transport the nuc
• Protective gear if you prefer (bees are usually calm, but they are still bees)
 
Nucs should be installed into your hive the same day if possible.
 
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Pricing
 
5-Frame Nucleus Colony — $195
 
A deposit of $75 per nuc is required to reserve your order.
 
Remaining balance is due at pickup.
 
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Deposit & Reservation Policy
 
• Deposits are non-refundable
• Bees are livestock and availability depends on weather, queen mating success, and spring colony buildup
• If we are unable to fulfill your order, your deposit will be refunded or applied to a later pickup date
 
Colonies not picked up during the scheduled pickup window may be forfeited without refund unless prior arrangements are made.
 
Once bees leave the apiary, responsibility transfers to the buyer.
 
By placing a deposit, the buyer agrees to these terms.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions
 
What is a nuc?
 
A nucleus colony (nuc) is a small, established honey bee colony. It contains a laying queen, brood, worker bees, and food stores on several frames.
 
Unlike package bees, a nuc is already functioning as a colony, which helps it grow faster.
 
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Why buy a nuc instead of a package?
 
Nucs generally:
 
• build up faster
• have a proven laying queen
• already contain brood
• are easier for beginners to manage
 
Many new beekeepers have better first-year success starting with nucs.
 
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What equipment do I need before pickup?
 
You should already have:
 
• a complete hive setup
• bottom board
• brood box
• frames
• inner cover and outer cover
• protective gear
• smoker and hive tool
 
Your hive should be ready before pickup day.
 
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When should I install the nuc?
 
Ideally the same day you pick it up.
 
If needed, the nuc can be kept overnight in a cool, shaded area with ventilation, but installation the same day is best.
 
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How do I transfer the nuc into my hive?
 
The frames are simply moved from the nuc box into your hive box in the same order.
 
The bees will naturally begin expanding onto new frames.
 
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Are the queens local?
 
Yes. These nucs include Indiana-raised queens, which are generally better adapted to Midwest weather conditions.
 
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Will the bees produce honey this year?
 
Possibly, but not guaranteed.
 
A new colony’s first priority is building comb and population. Strong colonies may produce a surplus later in the season.
 
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Do I need to feed them?
 
Many beekeepers feed 1:1 sugar syrup during early buildup, especially if nectar flow is inconsistent.
 
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What happens if my colony dies after pickup?
 
Once bees leave the apiary, their care and survival are the responsibility of the buyer.
 
Honey bees are livestock and survival depends on management, weather, forage availability, and pests.
 
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Can beginners buy these nucs?
 
Yes. Nucs are actually one of the best ways for beginners to start beekeeping, but we strongly recommend:
 
• taking a beginner beekeeping class
• joining a local bee club
• learning basic hive management beforehand