Bosler’s Bees, owned and passionately operated by Jason and Angie Bosler, is more than just a beekeeping business; it’s a testament to dedication, community engagement, and the vital role of bees in our ecosystem. Their journey began in 2007 when Jason Bosler’s curiosity was piqued by books from the Dover Public Library. This initial spark ignited a year-long exploration into the world of beekeeping, filled with research and connection. Jason didn’t just read; he immersed himself, joining the Tri-County Beekeepers to absorb every piece of knowledge he could. “The more info the better,” Jason emphasized, reflecting his commitment to thorough understanding.
This thirst for knowledge led him to six beekeeping classes, and by April 2009, Bosler’s beekeeping adventure officially began with two hives, a buzzing colony of bees, and essential safety gear finding their new home. Within a month, a third hive joined the party. 2010 marked a significant expansion as Jason acquired seven additional hives, and with the retirement of a mentor, four more hives were added to the growing Bosler bee family. By the close of 2010, Bosler’s Bees managed an impressive 33 hives. Over the winter, strategic splitting expanded their reach to a remarkable 60 hives, strategically placed across Baltic, Dundee, Wilmot, and Dover, enabling pollination services throughout Holmes, Tuscarawas, and Stark counties. Imagine the delightful honey from these bees potentially sweetening the offerings at a local Park Street Restaurant, bringing a truly local flavor to the community.
What truly resonated with the Boslers was the community they found along their beekeeping journey. Engaging with organizations like the Ohio State Beekeepers and Buckeye Queen Producers, and directly interacting with customers at the Tuscarawas Valley Farm Market and Family Farm Field Day, solidified their passion. These interactions weren’t just about business; they were about education and connection. “We really enjoyed getting to know folks… where we could interact with customers and teach them the reality of bees and the benefits they bring to the garden and the table,” Bosler shared, highlighting the educational aspect of their work.
A particular area of fascination for Jason was queen rearing – the art of creating queen bees. He explained the queen’s pivotal role: “A queen controls the hive. By creating new queens, you can alter a hive in terms of their gentleness, ability to survive the winter and withstand disease, not to mention honey production.” This focus on queen quality underscores their commitment to healthy and productive bee colonies.
The year 2015 saw Bosler’s Bees forge a crucial alliance with Country Bee Supply, establishing dual locations for the business. This partnership evolved, culminating in Bosler’s Bees acquiring the inventory and transforming into Bosler’s Bee Stuff, a name synonymous with quality beekeeping supplies. Their dedication to local sourcing and Amish craftsmanship remains unwavering. “The hives, for instance, are constructed right here in Holmes County,” Bosler proudly stated. “They are made by real people. The quality is impeccable.” This local focus ensures both quality and supports the regional economy.
Bosler’s Bee Stuff offers a comprehensive range of beekeeping essentials. From hives and hive components to specialized tools, protective gear, queen rearing equipment, and even charming novelty items like signage and labels, they cater to every beekeeper’s needs. They also provide harvesting and marketing supplies, including a wide selection of jars and bottles, alongside vital bee supplements and specialty feeds. For those starting their beekeeping journey, Bosler’s Bee Stuff offers live bees for sale, as well as NUCS (nucleus colonies) and a wealth of educational resources, from informative books to detailed posters. While shipping is available for most items, NUCS are exclusively available for local pickup in Dundee, Ohio, emphasizing the local aspect of their business. Whether you’re an experienced apiarist or just starting, “If you need pollen patties, we’ve got them,” Bosler assures. “We have things in stock to get someone started in beekeeping or to get hives through the winter.”
Beyond supplies, Bosler’s Bee Stuff is also renowned for its raw honey sales. Angie Bosler highlighted the delicious variety: “We have wax, honey combs, honey, candy and honey sticks. This is honey from bees right here, so it tastes different from something you purchase at the store.” The distinct taste, characterized by layers of flavor including clover, is a direct reflection of the local flora and the bees’ diligent work. Imagine this unique local honey being featured in a dessert at a park street restaurant, offering patrons a taste of the region’s natural bounty.
From honey sales and educational seminars to pollination services and honey bee removal, Bosler’s Bee Stuff is a full-service beekeeping resource. Whatever your bee-related need, Bosler’s Bee Stuff has you covered, connecting you to the essential world of bees and the sweet rewards they offer.
For further information, reach out via email at [email protected] or explore their website at boslersbstuff.com.