10 Way Of Attracting Bees to New Hive

Welcome, aspiring bee landlords! So, you’ve set up a swanky new hive, but your “For Rent” sign isn’t attracting any buzzing tenants? Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this “Field of Dreams” scenario.

While “If you build it, they will come” might work for ghost baseball players, bees need a little more convincing. Did you know that bees can travel up to 5 miles in search of a good home? That’s like you jogging across town to check out a new apartment!

In this guide, we’ll explore the art of bee attraction, turning your hive from a lonely bachelor pad into the hottest real estate on the block. So, grab your bee charm (and maybe some honey), and let’s get those bees house-hunting!

1. Location, Location, Location: The Perfect Hive

Finding the right spot for your beehives is crucial. I’ve been keeping bees for almost 15 years now, and boy, have I learned some lessons the hard way. Let’s talk about what really matters.

Choosing The Ideal Sunny Spot

First up, choosing the ideal sunny spot. Bees need sunshine like we need our morning coffee. I once put my hives in a shady area, thinking I was being smart. Boy, was I wrong! The bees were sluggish and barely produced any honey.

Now, I make sure my hives get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. But watch out for that afternoon sun – it can get too hot. I had a hive where the comb started melting! Eastern exposure is your best bet, giving them morning sun and afternoon shade.

Protecting From Wind And Rain

Protecting from wind and rain is next on the list. I learned this lesson after a big storm knocked over a hive I’d foolishly placed in an open field. Look for natural windbreaks like shrubs or fences.

You want to block those chilly winds but still allow some air circulation. For rain, a slight forward tilt on your hive stand helps water run off instead of pooling at the entrance.

Ensuring Easy Access To Water Sources

Don’t forget about ensuring easy access to water sources. I was clueless about this at first, until I noticed my bees hanging around my neighbor’s birdbath.

Bees need water to regulate hive temperature and dilute honey for their young. Now, I always set up a shallow water source nearby – a birdbath with pebbles for landing works great. Just keep it clean and filled!

When scouting locations, consider your neighbors too. I once had angry neighbors because my bees were zooming through their yard. Now I position hives so the bees’ flight path avoids high-traffic areas.

Here’s a pro tip: check the terrain. You want it flat and stable. I once put a hive on a slight slope, and come spring thaw, it was sliding downhill like crazy!

Remember, finding the perfect spot might take some trial and error. But get it right, and you’ll have happy, productive bees that’ll keep you in honey for years. And let me tell you, there’s nothing sweeter than that!

2. The Sweet Smell of Home: Baiting Your Hive

When I first started beekeeping, I thought bees would flock to any old hive. Boy, was I wrong! Over the years, I’ve learned some nifty tricks to make my hives irresistible to those picky little buzzers.

Using Lemongrass Oil As A Bee Magnet

Let’s talk about lemongrass oil first. This stuff is like bee catnip! I remember the first time I tried it – just a couple drops on a cotton swab in an empty hive. Within days, scout bees were checking it out.

But here’s a pro tip: don’t overdo it. I once doused a whole hive in lemongrass oil. Big mistake! The scent was so strong it actually repelled the bees. A little goes a long way!

The Power Of Beeswax In Attraction

Now, onto the power of beeswax. This one’s a no-brainer when you think about it. Bees love the smell of their own wax – it’s like hanging a “Home Sweet Home” sign on your hive.

I’ve had great success using old comb in new hives. If you don’t have old comb, melting down some beeswax and painting a thin layer inside works too. Just make sure it’s disease-free. I learned that lesson the hard way and ended up with a nasty case of foulbrood once.

Other Scents That Bees Can’t Resist

Let’s chat about other scents bees can’t resist. Did you know they’re attracted to banana smell? Weird, right? The chemical in banana peels is similar to their alarm pheromone.

I’ve rubbed banana peel on hive entrances before with great results. Just don’t leave the peel there – it’ll attract pests.

Anise oil is another winner. I discovered this by accident when I spilled some star anise tea near my hives. The bees went nuts! Now I sometimes use a drop or two along with lemongrass oil.

Oh, and here’s a strange one – olive oil. I noticed bees swarming me after I spilled some on my pants during a picnic. Now I sometimes rub a little on the landing board of a new hive.

But nothing beats queen pheromone if you can get it. It’s the gold standard for attracting swarms, but not always easy to find.

Remember, baiting a hive is part art, part science. What works great one season might flop the next. Keep experimenting and observing. Your bees will let you know what they like.

Don’t get discouraged if your first attempts don’t work out. I’ve had seasons where I thought I’d done everything right, and still no bees showed up. Then the next year, using the same methods, I’d have more swarms than I knew what to do with! Nature’s funny that way.

3. Creating a Bee Buffet: Planting For Pollinators

When I started beekeeping, I thought bees would just figure out their own food situation. Boy, was I wrong! Creating a bee buffet is crucial for happy, healthy hives.

Best Flowers To Attract Bees

Let’s talk about the best flowers to attract bees. Simple, open flowers are winners. Lavender’s been a huge hit in my garden – sometimes it looks like a bee convention out there!

Sunflowers are another favorite. I planted a whole row once, and by midsummer, it was like a bee highway. Just don’t put them too close to your patio, trust me on that one.

Don’t forget herbs! Mint, thyme, and oregano are bee magnets. Plus, you get fresh herbs for cooking. Win-win!

Creating A Year-Round Blooming Schedule

Now, creating a year-round blooming schedule was a game-changer for me. Bees need food from early spring through late fall. I learned this the hard way when my bees struggled in spring and fall because I only had summer bloomers.

These days, I’ve got a system. Crocuses and snowdrops for early spring, fruit tree blossoms next, then the summer bonanza, and asters and sedum for fall. It’s like a bee breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet!

I use a big calendar to plan it out, marking when each plant typically blooms. It’s like playing Tetris with flowers, making sure there’s always something in bloom.

The Importance Of Diverse Pollen Sources

The importance of diverse pollen sources can’t be overstated. Bees need a balanced diet, just like us. Different pollens provide different nutrients. I once planted a whole field of clover, thinking I was doing my bees a favor. It was like feeding kids nothing but pizza!

Now, I aim for at least 3-4 different pollen sources blooming at any time. It’s like a bee multivitamin! I’ve noticed healthier hives and more honey production with diverse options.

Don’t forget about trees! Maples, willows, and lindens are bee magnets. I’ve got a big old linden in my backyard that sounds like a bee orchestra when it’s in bloom.

Creating a bee buffet isn’t just about quantity, it’s about having the right flowers at the right time. You’re like a bee restaurant manager – keep that menu varied and available all season long.

So go ahead, plant those flowers, mix it up, and watch your bees thrive. There’s nothing quite like seeing your garden buzzing with happy, well-fed bees.

4. Water Features: More Than Just A Pretty Face

When I started beekeeping, I had no clue how important water was for bees. I thought they just needed flowers and they’d be set. Boy, was I wrong!

Setting Up Bee-Friendly Water Sources

Setting up bee-friendly water sources isn’t as simple as putting out a bowl of water, though. Use shallow dishes with pebbles or marbles in them. It’s like a little bee beach! They can land and sip safely. I’ve even seen them sunbathing on the warm stones. Who knew?

Keeping Water Clean And Accessible

Keeping water clean and accessible is crucial. I change the water every couple of days. It’s become part of my routine, like my morning coffee. Stagnant water is a no-go – it gets gross fast and can spread diseases.

Pro tip: place your water source in a shady spot. I once put one in full sun and ended up with tepid bee soup that nobody wanted to drink. Shade keeps it cooler and slows evaporation.

Adding Minerals To Attract Bees

Now, here’s where it gets interesting – adding minerals to attract bees. I noticed my bees ignoring the clean water I’d put out, favoring a muddy puddle instead. Turns out, bees love flavored water!

I now add a pinch of sea salt to their water. It’s like a bee sports drink! They get hydration plus essential minerals. Just don’t overdo it – too much salt is bad for bees, just like for us.

I’ve also tried adding a little raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. Sounds weird, but the bees go crazy for it! It’s got minerals and good bacteria they seem to love.

One summer, I even made “bee tea” by steeping chamomile in the water. The bees enjoyed it, but my wife thought I’d lost my marbles brewing tea for insects! Remember, moderation is key with additives. You’re not running a bee bar! These water features have been a game-changer for my hives. My bees seem healthier and more active.

5. The Art of Swarm Catching: When Opportunity Knocks

Let me tell you, catching a swarm is like nature giving you free bees! But boy, did I learn some lessons the hard way when I started out.

Recognizing Swarm Behavior

Recognizing swarm behavior is key. First time I saw one, I thought my hive was under attack! Bees everywhere, flying in circles, making a racket. Now I know better. Bees hanging out in a big cluster outside the hive? That’s a clue.

Lots of scout bees checking out weird places? Another hint. Once found a cluster in my old work boots – talk about a surprise!

Safe Techniques For Capturing A Swarm

Safe catching techniques are crucial. I learned this when I tried catching my first swarm in shorts and a t-shirt. Big mistake! Now I always suit up properly. And I never go up on a ladder alone anymore. Not after the “Great Tumble of ’18” as my husband calls it.

My go-to method is the “shake and dump” technique. Position a box under the swarm and give the branch a good shake. Sounds simple, but that first shake can be nerve-wracking! Pro tip: if you can spot the queen and gently place her in the box, the rest usually follow.

Transferring A Swarm To Your New Hive

Transferring to a new hive is where the real fun begins. I’ve tried all sorts of methods. Once used a vacuum cleaner with a special attachment. The bees were fine, but my vacuum never quite recovered.

These days, I keep it simple. Place the swarm box in front of the new hive at sunset. Give it a gentle shake, dumping the bees onto a sloped board leading into the hive entrance. It’s like a little bee waterslide!

Watching them march into their new home is something special. They fan their wings, releasing a “This way, folks!” pheromone. It’s like they’re rolling out the red carpet for each other.

Always make sure to spot the queen during transfer. I once caught a massive swarm, felt pretty proud, but the next morning the hive was empty! Missed the queen, and the whole swarm left to find her. Talk about humbling!

Even with all the precautions, swarm catching is still an adventure every time. Each swarm has its own personality. Some docile as lambs, others spicy as wasps. You never know what you’re going to get.

That’s what I love about it though. Keeps you on your toes, teaches you something new every time. And when you’re watching your new bees settle in, there’s no better feeling.

So if you get the chance to catch a swarm, go for it! Just remember: be safe, be patient, and be ready for anything. Happy swarm catching!

6. Splitting Hives: DIY Bee Multiplication

Splitting hives is like bee magic, turning one colony into two! But man, did I make some blunders when I first started out.

When And How To Split An Existing Hive

Timing is everything for splits. My first attempt? I split a hive in early spring. Big mistake! Those poor bees were shivering. Now, I wait until I see drones flying and plenty of brood, usually late spring in my area. But know your local climate – what works in Florida won’t fly in Minnesota!

I prefer the walk-away split method. Take half the frames (with eggs and young larvae) and put ’em in a new box. Sounds simple, right? Well, mostly. Once accidentally put all the honey frames in the new hive. Those original bees were not happy campers!

Equipment Needed For Hive Splitting

Equipment-wise, you don’t need anything fancy, but being prepared makes all the difference. I learned this when I tried a spur-of-the-moment split, balancing frames on an upturned bucket! Now, I always have an extra hive body, bottom board, cover, and frames ready.

Ensuring Queen Success In Split Hives

Ensuring queen success is the real challenge. In a walk-away split, one half raises their own queen. It’s a nail-biter! I used to check daily, but all I did was annoy the bees and stress myself out. Patience is key – give them at least two weeks before poking around.

Sometimes, I’ll boost the queenless half with a frame of fresh eggs and young larvae from another hive. Extra ingredients for their queen-making recipe! Just be careful not to transfer the queen accidentally. Did that once. Oops!

You can introduce a new queen yourself. I tried with a mail-order queen once. Was so nervous, I dropped the cage! Now I always hold it over the open hive, just in case. Pro tip: use a push-in cage. It’s like giving her a little apartment in the hive until the workers accept her.

Even with all these tips, sometimes splits don’t work out. I’ve had hives refuse new queens or fail to raise one. It’s disappointing, but it’s part of the learning process.

7. Buying Bees: When To Consider Purchasing

Let me tell you, getting your first batch of bees is exciting, here are some of the lessons I’ve learned

Types Of Bee Packages Available

When it comes to types of bee packages, you’ve got options. There’s the classic package of bees – a box of workers and a queen. Then you’ve got nucs (nucleus colonies), which are like mini established hives. And sometimes, you can even buy full hives.

My first purchase was a package because it was cheaper. I thought I was being smart, but sometimes you get what you pay for! Those packaged bees were like confused tourists. No comb, no brood, took ages to establish. Meanwhile, my friend who splurged on a nuc had his bees thriving in no time.

Choosing Between Nucs And Packaged Bees

Choosing between nucs and packages is tricky. Nucs are great – they’re already a functioning mini-colony with drawn comb, a laying queen, and some brood. It’s like buying a starter home instead of an empty lot. But they’re pricier and can introduce diseases if you’re not careful.

Packages are usually cheaper and more available, but take longer to establish. There’s always the risk the queen won’t be accepted. I once had a package where the workers decided they didn’t like their new queen. Talk about ungrateful employees!

Installing Purchased Bees In Your New Hive

Installing bees is where the real fun begins. I was so nervous my first time, I put my bee suit on backwards! These days, I’ve got a system. For packages, I spray them lightly with sugar water to keep them calm, then shake most bees into the hive.

With nucs, you just transfer the frames. But watch out for sneaky queens! I once nearly sent a queen to the compost pile because she was hiding in the nuc box corner.

Pro tip: install bees in the evening. They’re less likely to fly off. I learned this after a noon installation when half my bees decided to tour my neighbor’s garden!

Always have your hive ready before bees arrive. I once left assembly to the last minute. The bees were not impressed with their temporary cardboard home while I fumbled with a screwdriver.

Even with potential pitfalls, bringing home your first bees is magical. That buzz of excitement when you see them settling in – it’s hard to beat.

8. Patience Is A Virtue: The Waiting Game

Let me tell you, when it comes to attracting bees to a new hive, patience isn’t just a virtue – it’s a necessity! I’ve been so impatient I’ve checked my empty hive every five minutes like a kid waiting for Christmas morning.

Understanding Bee House-Hunting Behavior

Understanding bee house-hunting behavior is key. These little guys are picky, and for good reason! Scout bees are like the bee world’s property developers, always on the lookout for prime real estate. They’re looking for a cavity of the right size (about 40 liters), a small entrance high off the ground, and a warm, dry interior. It’s fascinating to watch them measure and assess every nook and cranny.

Signs That Bees Are Interested In Your Hive

Signs that bees are interested in your hive include increased bee traffic and scouts doing their cool figure-eight dance on the landing board. It’s like they’re saying, “Hey guys, check out this sweet pad I found!” Another good sign is bees bringing in pollen. I remember doing a little jig the first time I saw that – felt like I’d won the bee lottery!

How Long To Wait Before Trying New Tactics

But even with these promising signs, it doesn’t mean a swarm will move in tomorrow. This is where the waiting game really begins. I’d say give it at least a month before trying new tactics. I know it feels like forever, but bees operate on their own timeline, not ours.

I once got impatient after a couple of weeks and started adding all sorts of extra lures and scents. You know what happened? I overdid it so much, I actually repelled the bees! They took one whiff and buzzed right off. Talk about embarrassing!

If you’ve waited a month and still no bees, then it might be time to reassess. Maybe your hive location isn’t quite right. I had to move one of my hives three times before I found a spot the bees liked. It was like playing “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” with my hive!

Consider refreshing your lures or even relocating your hive entirely. I once had a hive that wouldn’t attract bees because it was too close to a hawk nesting site. No wonder the bees weren’t keen!

Even if it takes a while, there’s something special about the moment when bees finally choose your hive. It’s like they’re saying, “Hey, thanks for the new digs!” It’s worth all the waiting and worrying, trust me.

So, if you’re playing the waiting game, hang in there. Use the time to learn more about bees or perfect your hive setup. Before you know it, you’ll be watching your very own colony move in. And let me tell you, that’s a moment you’ll never forget!

9. Keeping Them Happy: Maintaining Bee Interest

Once you’ve got bees in your hive, the real work begins. It’s like having tiny, buzzing tenants – you’ve gotta keep ’em happy!

Regular Hive Maintenance Tips

Let’s start with regular hive maintenance. Bees like a clean home, but don’t go overboard. I made the mistake of scrubbing everything down with soap and water. The bees got super agitated because their familiar scent was gone.

Now, I do a quick check every couple of weeks during the active season. I clean out dead bees and make sure the queen is still laying eggs. A little bee funk is actually good!

Providing Consistent Food Sources

Providing consistent food sources is crucial. Bees are always hungry! In spring and early summer, there’s usually plenty of natural forage. But come late summer and fall, things can get lean.

My first year, I opened the hive in winter to find they’d eaten through all their honey stores. Now, I keep a close eye on their stores and supplement with sugar syrup or pollen patties if needed. But don’t overfeed! I once stuffed them with so much sugar syrup, the queen had no room to lay eggs.

Managing Pests And Diseases To Keep Bees Healthy

Managing pests and diseases is another key part. Nothing clears out a hive faster than varroa mites or foulbrood. The first time I saw mites, I went on a treatment rampage and nearly did more harm than good. Now, I take a more balanced approach with regular checks, screened bottom boards, and occasional treatments when necessary.

One summer, my bees had a case of nosema – a nasty gut disease. I caught it early and treated it, but it was a close call. Now I always watch for signs of illness, like bees unable to fly or unusual spotting on the hive front.

The best defense is a strong, healthy hive. That means good nutrition, a young queen, and not stressing the bees out too much. I learned to resist the urge to open the hive every day just to peek.

Keeping bees happy is all about balance. Help them out, but don’t interfere too much with their natural behaviors. It’s a constant learning process, but that’s what makes it fascinating.

10. Advanced Attraction Techniques: Thinking Outside The Box

Let’s dive into some adventurous methods of attracting bees. Not saying these are all good ideas, but they sure are interesting!

Using Pheromone Lures

First up, pheromone lures. It’s like playing Cupid for bees. I tried a commercial lure once, feeling like a secret agent. It worked… sort of. I got bees, but they were confused, circling the hive expecting a queen. It was like they were saying, “Hey, who’s been catfishing us?” Now, I stick to a dab of lemongrass oil. Less drama, same results.

The Controversial World Of Bee Robbing

Next, the controversial world of bee robbing. This is the bee equivalent of Grand Theft Auto. I tried it once, putting honey frames in an empty hive. Instead of attracting a swarm, I started a bee war! Robber bees from other hives showed up, and it was chaos. Aerial dogfights, wrestling matches on the landing board – the works. No swarm moved in, and I had some very angry neighboring beekeepers.

High-Tech Solutions For Bee Attraction

Now, onto high-tech solutions. I’ve seen everything from automated swarm catchers to AI-powered bee surveillance. It’s like we’re turning beekeeping into a sci-fi movie!

I met a guy who rigged up a motion-activated sprinkler to “guide” swarms. He ended up with a wet yard and zero bees. Another fellow used drones to track swarms – bee paparazzi, if you will.

I tried my hand at high-tech once, setting up a 24/7 camera system. Spent a whole weekend on it, feeling like bee Big Brother. Know what happened? A spider built a web in front of the camera. All I got was an up-close view of spider life!

In the end, I’ve found the best high-tech solution is a good pair of binoculars and a comfy chair. Nothing beats actually watching and learning from the bees themselves.

Some folks have had success with careful use of pheromones or well-designed swarm traps. But in my experience, simpler methods often work best.

Remember, bees have been choosing homes for millions of years. Our job is to provide a nice, cozy hive and let nature do its thing. It might not be as exciting as chasing swarms with drones, but it’s less likely to end with you covered in stings or tangled in wires!

The Final Buzz

Congratulations! You’re now armed with the secrets of bee attraction, ready to turn your lonely hive into the buzziest spot in town. Remember, attracting bees is part science, part art, and a whole lot of patience.

Whether you’re baiting with lemongrass oil, planting a pollinator paradise, or trying your hand at swarm catching, the key is persistence and creating an irresistible bee haven.

Soon enough, you’ll be the proud landlord of a thriving bee colony. Just don’t let all this bee popularity go to your head – no one likes a smug beekeeper!