When I teach beekeeping classes one of the questions I can count on is "what is the correct fuel for my smoker?"  There seems to be a mystique attached to smoking the bees.  They are visibly disappointed when I tell them there is no secret fuel.

Although I have met many beekeepers who have their favorite fuel and they advocate for it...  Being a bit utilitarian, I tend to use what is at hand.  Occasionally burlap ends up in my beeyard and I let it season in the wind and rain before use.  More often when the smoker begins running out, I rake up what is on the ground and drop it in the smoker.

Has anyone tried sumac leaves?  I was told it has a better calming effect on the bees.  However, I have not read it on the internet, so it is not confirmed.

Larry Krengel
45 N  88 W

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