How do I attract bees to my new beehive?

Lemongrass essential oil is often recommended as a natural swarm lure, but products designed specifically as swarm lures are likely to be more effective. You can also purchase synthetic pheromones that attract bees by giving the illusion of a previously-occupied beehive.

Will bees come to a new hive?

An empty beehive can attract new bees. However, the chances of bees nesting in an already existing beehive can be quite low. That is why it is on you to come up with different ways to try to attract the bees to enter the new beehive and build their colony there so that you don’t have to spend money on buying a colony.

How do you make a bee attractant?

Directions

1. Make a double boiler using a tin can. Melt the beeswax and olive oil together in the can, over medium heat. Remove from the heat.
2. Add the lemongrass essential oil. Stir the mixture while it cools, just until it begins to thicken. Pour into a 4-ounce tin. Allow the lure to cool.

Will bees just move into an empty hive?

Yes, with a bit of time and effort you can lure bees to an empty hive. For example, adding wax frames can act as a “bait” of sorts, while a smaller hive opening is preferable as it’s easier for new bees to protect.

What is a natural bee attractant?

If you want to increase your chance of successfully attracting a swarm, you can add an attractant to your bait hive. Lemongrass is very similar to the queen bee’s scent. Honeybees find the mixture of lemongrass and beeswax irresistible.

How do you lure bees out?

Bees are attracted to sweet flavors like the nectar they obtain from flowers. By mixing up some sugar water, you can approximate a nectar-like flavor. Mix about one teaspoon of sugar with three teaspoons of water. You can mix the water and sugar in a blender or mix it by hand in a small cup.

What liquid attracts bees?

Pour honey or sugar water directly into the bottom of the trap. You don’t need much; a thin layer will be enough to attract bees. Bees will be attracted to the sweetness and won’t be able to escape, eventually dying in the trap. Save the lives of bees by only using honey or sugar water.

Does lemon attract bees?

The smell of lemons can attract bees, but not because they’re angry — quite the opposite. Lemon smells like an attractive pheromone that bees release to help bring foragers home, and can be likely to summon additional inquisitive bees.