Greetings Peter et al: I have my concerns with what people have used to create smoke especially toxic smoke. So what isn't toxic? That's the point that should be discussed. One friend recently helped me and we used almost no smoke just gentle handling. I know another who smokes the bees so much that he should be in the business of smoked meat. Smoke leaves residues and can stay in wax . I've even tasted honey that was smokey in flavor because too much was used on the supers. So what was I eating? Another fellow I know uses punky wood and that smokes really well but what's in that smoke? I've resorted to starting the smoker through a hole in the side with a turbo torch . What I burn is hardwood granules used for smoking meat along with alfalfa cubes . It's a cool smoke and once the thing gets going (that's why the turbo) she keeps on burning but I get a lot of creosote build up. Walter Ontario -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and other info ---