NASHVILLE, TN – Honey bee supply challenges are raising concerns across several U.S. specialty crop sectors that depend heavily on pollination. Elevated colony losses and rising costs to rebuild hives are increasing pressure on both growers and beekeepers as pollination demand builds during spring bloom periods.
Almond production in California faces the greatest exposure because the crop depends almost entirely on honey bee pollination. Each year, the state’s almond bloom requires roughly 2.5 to 3 million managed colonies — a large share of the nation’s commercial bee supply. Without adequate pollination during the short bloom window, orchards can see reduced nut set and lower yields.
Operationally, beekeepers are increasingly relying on nucleus colonies, or “nucs,” to rebuild hive numbers after winter losses. A nuc is a small starter colony that includes a queen, worker bees, brood, and food stores on several frames. According to USDA data, the average price paid for nucs reached about $130 in 2025, reflecting stronger demand for replacement colonies as beekeepers rebuild hives ahead of pollination season.
Regionally, crops such as apples in the Upper Midwest and Northeast and blueberries across the Southeast and Pacific Northwest also depend heavily on honey bee pollination. Reduced bee availability can affect fruit size, shape, and overall yields, increasing the importance of maintaining healthy colonies.
Looking ahead, ongoing colony health challenges and rising demand for pollination services could keep pressure on bee supplies and the cost of replacement colonies, such as nucs, thereby increasing expenses for both beekeepers and crop producers.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Bee supply and nuc costs affect pollination availability.