Thanks for stopping by Instar Apiaries. Whether you're looking to pick up some raw honey, interested in raising your own queens, or just have a question about keeping bees in Philadelphia, I'd love to hear from you.
About Instar Apiaries
I've been keeping bees in Philadelphia since 2007, and what started as a backyard curiosity has grown into something I'm genuinely passionate about. Over the years, I've learned that there's no one right way to keep bees—but there are definitely better ways to keep them healthy and productive.
One of my core beliefs is that we shouldn't be relying on antibiotics to prop up our colonies. Instead, I focus on breeding from my strongest overwintered stock and introducing genetics that show real signs of varroa resistance. It's slower than a quick chemical fix, but it's the kind of work that actually moves the needle long-term. I've never treated my colonies with antibiotics, and I don't plan to start.
Beyond the hive, I spend a lot of time observing what's actually happening in our local environment. I watch the flowers bloom, track which plants are reliable nectar sources, and document the incredible insect activity that happens right here in the city. It's this kind of attention to detail that helps me raise better bees and produce better honey.
What We Offer
We produce raw honey from our Philadelphia-area apiaries. Every batch reflects the season and the flowers our bees have been working. You'll taste the difference between early-season blooms and late-summer forage. If you're serious about honey, you'll appreciate knowing exactly where it came from and how it was handled.
We also raise and sell queen bees and nucleus colonies for beekeepers looking to expand their operation or start fresh with strong, locally-adapted genetics. If you're thinking about getting into beekeeping or want to add another hive to your setup, we can help you get started the right way.
Who Should Reach Out
- Honey customers: Want to order raw honey or learn more about our current harvest? Get in touch.
- Beekeepers interested in queens or nucs: Looking for resistant genetics or just a reliable local source? We'd like to talk with you.
- People with beekeeping questions: Whether you're a complete beginner or already running a few hives, if you have questions about keeping bees in Philadelphia or the Mid-Atlantic region, I'm happy to share what I've learned.
- Swarm removal and cutouts: We handle bee removals in the Philadelphia area. If you've got bees where they shouldn't be, let us know.
How to Reach Us
The best way to get in touch is to use the contact form on this site. I try to respond to all inquiries within a few days, though during peak season (spring and early summer) it might take a little longer.
If you're asking about honey availability, let me know what time of year you're interested in and what quantity you're looking for. Depending on the season, we may have inventory on hand or be able to reserve some for you.
For queen bees and nucleus colonies, timing matters. We typically have queens available in spring and early summer, and nucs are usually ready to go from April through June. If you're interested in fall or winter stock, reach out anyway—we can sometimes work something out.
Questions about beekeeping in Philadelphia? I'm genuinely interested in helping other beekeepers succeed, whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach. Ask away.
A Note on Beekeeping in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a great place to keep bees. We've got decent forage, a long enough season, and plenty of beekeepers who are willing to share knowledge. That said, it's not without its challenges. Varroa mites are a constant pressure, and our winters can be unpredictable. But if you're willing to pay attention to your colonies and make thoughtful decisions about genetics and management, you can absolutely succeed here.
I'm always interested in connecting with other local beekeepers, swapping observations about what's blooming and what the bees are doing, and working together to build a stronger beekeeping community in the city. If that sounds like something you'd be into, I'd love to hear from you.
Thanks again for your interest in Instar Apiaries. Looking forward to connecting.