Beemaster's International Beekeeping Forum

BEEKEEPING LEARNING CENTER => GENERAL BEEKEEPING - MAIN POSTING FORUM. => Topic started by: garys520 on February 16, 2009, 08:20:17 PM

Title: Propolis trap help
Post by: garys520 on February 16, 2009, 08:20:17 PM
I used a Propolis trap on both of my hives this past year and they worked fine, but just try to get the propolis out of the small holes is almost impossible.  I followed the instructions that has me put the traps in a plastic bag for a couple of days then bend the plastic and the propolis should pop right out.  Well, it doesn't work, most of it stays in.  Should I coat the plastic with something before using them?  I really like them for the ventilation they provide for the hives.  I prop the top cover up with a small stick and the holes in the trap help keep my hives a lot cooler in the heat of the summer.  Has anyone had better luck than me?   
Title: Re: Propolis trap help
Post by: Pond Creek Farm on February 16, 2009, 08:23:47 PM
I have the traps too but did not put any on last year.  I was told to freeze them and then try to twist out the propolis.  I cannot tell you if it works, but that is what I was told.  What were you going to do with the propolis?  I am quite curious about uses of hive products.
Title: Re: Propolis trap help
Post by: garys520 on February 16, 2009, 08:27:44 PM
My wife make Propolis Hand Cream, which works great. Also, she makes solution for cuts and scrapes which involves putting the propolis in solution and cooking it in the oven, then straining it with a coffee filter. 
Title: Re: Propolis trap help
Post by: Michael Bush on February 16, 2009, 09:44:49 PM
Roll them up and put them in the freezer.  When you unroll the frozen trap it will virtually all pop off.
Title: Re: Propolis trap help
Post by: jdb1930 on February 16, 2009, 09:55:35 PM
Yeah, when you freeze it, it should all or mostly pop off