Natural Beekeeping International Forum

[jfeist1968]

Is there a reason not to set up unused gear in the apiary with swarm lures in them?

I'm nearly done constructing a top bar hive, and have set out the first of several swarm traps I plan for this spring. But I wonder if the hive itself should be outside with a lure (not to mention, allure), rather than gathering dust in my basement, as I wait for bees.

--Jonathan

[catchercradle]

Also covered in another post but yes put the hive out as it saves you having to transfer the bees from the trap if they go straight in on their own. two drops lemon grass oil or rub the inside with Melissa oficianalis (lemon balm)

[Carl and Petra]

I don't see why not. My Warre hive was left out after i built it last year and it attracted a swarm.

[WileyHunter]

I have a "standard" nuc box (5 frame) hanging in my yard, it's my swarm box, but until I get a call to retrieve a swarm, I'm letting it hang in hopes of attracting one. There've been a few honeybees scoping it out today.