Step-by-Step: Installing Your Package Bees Leave a comment
1️⃣ Choose the Right Time
Install:
- Late afternoon or early evening
- On a calm, mild day
- Avoid cold, windy, or rainy weather
2️⃣ Prepare Your Hive
Before opening the package:
- Set your hive in its permanent location
- Remove 4–5 center frames from the brood box
- Lightly mist the bees with 1:1 sugar syrup
The syrup helps keep bees calm and focused.
3️⃣ Remove & Inspect the Queen Cage
Carefully remove the feeder can and then remove the queen cage from its slot inside the package.
Inspect the Queen
Before placing her in the hive:
- Ensure she is alive and moving
- Look for normal behavior and posture
If the queen is not alive, bring her back immediately for replacement.
Common Queen Cage Types
Because we source queens from several breeders to maintain strong genetic diversity, you may receive different cage styles. All are normal.
California Mini Cage (Most Common)
- Small wooden cage
- Only one cork
- There is no candy plug inside
Installation options:
- Remove the cork after 3 days and replace with a mini marshmallow
OR - Request a candy plug at package pickup and replace the cork at installation
JZBZ Plastic Cage
- Plastic cage
- Candy plug covered with a plastic cap
- Remove the plastic cap only
- Do not remove the candy
Three-Hole Wooden Cage (Less Common)
- Wooden cage
- Candy plug covered by cork
- Remove cork from candy end only
👉 Never release the queen directly into the hive.
Allow workers to release her gradually.
4️⃣ Hang the Queen Cage
- Place the cage between two center frames
- Screen facing sideways or slightly downward
- Ensure worker bees can access the candy or opening
5️⃣ Shake or Pour the Bees
We currently use two package styles.
Wooden Mesh Package
- Remove feeder can
- Remove queen cage
- Shake bees through the feeder can opening
Plastic “Bee Bus” Package
- Remove feeder can
- Remove queen cage
- Open the side door
- Gently pour bees directly into the hive
Both methods are correct — the plastic style can be a bit easier and cleaner.
6️⃣ Close the Hive & Feed
- Replace frames carefully
- Add feeder with 1:1 sugar syrup
- Reduce entrance if nights are still cool
New packages should be fed until:
- Several frames are drawn
- The queen is laying consistently
- Natural nectar flow is strong
First Inspection (3–5 Days Later)
Check for:
- Queen release
- Eggs in cells
- Comb being drawn
If using a California mini cage without a candy plug, remove the cork at this time and replace it with a mini marshmallow if you have not already done so.
Why Local Packaging Matters
Although queens are bred in California, your package is assembled locally in Ogden. Because the bees are not boxed and then shipped long distances after packaging, they experience less stress before installation.
Pro Tips for Success
- Stay calm — bees respond to your energy
- Avoid over-inspecting during the first week
- Keep pets and children clear during installation
- Feed consistently until comb is established
Final Thoughts
Installing package bees marks the beginning of your colony’s journey. Within weeks, you’ll see drawn comb, brood, and a thriving hive.
If you ever have questions — whether you purchased your bees from us or elsewhere — we’re happy to help you succeed.
