Jane recently posted to BEE-L: >Hi, I usually order nucs in the spring. This year a beebuddy has told me >about an outfit that sells 9-frame nucs. (I usually receive 4-frame ones.) >They are the same price as many four-framers, and in one case cheaper. Is >this too good to be true (she asks with typical beekeeper's skepticism)? > > >Weather report: finally warmer; amazing nothern lights > >Cheers, Jane "I bee; therefore I am." > Aw c'mon Jane - How the heck should we know??? Sure, it's *possible* that someone is selling 9-frame nucs for the same price others are selling 4-frame nucs. Some folks just aren't as strongly driven by the profit motive! The question I would ask is what is the relative strength of the nuc - ie is the 9-framer just a 4-framer with 5 extra frames of honey??? or are you really getting a good distribution of brood, pollen & honey???? I would go visit the source, get a look at the apiary, and evaluate the operation. If everything looks good, go for it!! I would also consider the convenience of the various options - do you have to drive very far to pick up your nuc??? A longer drive can easily offset the cost of the "more expensive" nuc, especially if you consider that time=money! Good luck! Rick Hough, Hamilton, MA, USA [log in to unmask]