This week, Jim Tew takes a nostalgic yet practical dive into the evolution of plastic in the world of beekeeping. From his early days in the 1970s, when plastic was virtually non-existent in beekeeping equipment, to its widespread adoption in everything from frames to veils, Jim reflects on how this material has shaped the industry.

Jim shares anecdotes about the challenges of using glass honey jars, metal extractors, and wooden cages in the past—and how plastic innovations, such as plastic foundation, queen cages, and five-gallon buckets, have transformed beekeeping. He discusses the pros and cons of plastic equipment, including its environmental implications and the improved convenience it brings to everyday beekeeping tasks.

Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper who remembers the early days of this transition or a newer beekeeper curious about the history of your tools, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on the role of plastic in beekeeping and its lasting impact on the craft.

Listen today to reminisce with Jim, explore the benefits and challenges of this material, and consider what the future might hold for plastic in beekeeping.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review.

______________________

Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

______________________

Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.

Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott

Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics)

Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this week’s episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew delves into the challenges and dilemmas beekeepers face when managing small, struggling colonies in the heart of winter. With his signature mix of candor and experience, Jim explores the emotional and practical aspects of trying to save weak hives during the harshest months.

Jim shares personal anecdotes about a small swarm that settled in one of his hives, only to struggle against the odds. From emergency feeding with honey and fondant to the futility of late-season interventions, he discusses the fine line between helping a colony survive and simply prolonging the inevitable. Along the way, Jim reflects on the stressors that bees face—both natural and those inadvertently caused by beekeepers.

Whether it’s finding innovative ways to provide winter sustenance or grappling with the ethical questions of colony management, Jim’s stories resonate with beekeepers of all experience levels. He also reflects on the broader concept of stress—both for bees and beekeepers—and the delicate balance between intervention and letting nature take its course.

Join Jim as he navigates the complexities of winter beekeeping, offering insights that are both practical and thought-provoking.

Listen Today!

______________________

Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

______________________

Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.

Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott

Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics)

Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this special archive episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew and the late Kim Flottum dive into the age-old debate between starting with packages or nucleus colonies (nucs). Whether you’re a beginner beekeeper or looking to expand your apiary, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical advice to help guide your decision-making.

Jim and Kim discuss why packages are often the preferred choice for beginners, emphasizing their simplicity and control. They explore the advantages of nucs, which allow for faster colony growth and even the potential for a honey harvest in the first year. The conversation also delves into the challenges associated with both methods, including population drops in packages and the increased risk of varroa mites in nucs.

Throughout the episode, they offer practical tips for selecting and managing both packages and nucs, ensuring your colonies have the best possible start. Their candid and informative discussion highlights the considerations beekeepers should weigh when preparing for spring and making decisions about their next colony purchase.

Join us for this insightful episode, where two legends of the beekeeping world share their expertise and experiences to help you succeed in your beekeeping journey.

Listen Today!

______________________

Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

______________________

Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast.

Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott

Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics)

Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC