Luring a Swarm Question

DayValleyDahlias · May 11, 2007, 08:46:13 PM

If I set up swarm lure, might that entice my own bees to swarm to it?

Sharon

Understudy · May 11, 2007, 08:48:21 PM

Yes.

Sincerely,
Brendhan

Michael Bush · May 11, 2007, 09:28:02 PM

>If I set up swarm lure, might that entice my own bees to swarm to it?

It will not entice any bees to swarm, including yours.

It WILL make an attractive home if they DO swarm.

Understudy · May 11, 2007, 09:43:48 PM

I should have been clearer on my answer if your bees do swarm this is a good lure for them. It will not make them want to swarm like MB said. That is what I meant.

Sincerely,
Brendhan

DayValleyDahlias · May 11, 2007, 10:03:00 PM

Yes, okay got it!

heaflaw · May 11, 2007, 11:15:57 PM

So, what type of lures are best? I have used pheronome lures in a small plastic tube that is hung in an empty box. Also, Brushy Mtn now sells something called Bee Charm that is from France and comes in a tube. I set out about 8 or 10 bait hives each season with 2 or 3 frames of old comb. I get at least one swarm each year that way?

What is everyone's experience with bait boxes and lures?

Understudy · May 11, 2007, 11:23:29 PM

I use lemongrass oil and if I have it a small piece of comb attatched to the top.

Sincerely,
Brendhan

doak · May 11, 2007, 11:41:29 PM

A few years ago, when I didn't have my bees yet. I used the boxes I got honey from. Set them out back and the 3rd day had a swarm. The easter swarm I got this year I put a feeder of sugar syrup in it. That was the 2nd day. They came to it the 4th day.
On another note, no matter what you use if they don't approve of the dwelling they will pass on it.
doak

heaflaw · May 12, 2007, 12:20:12 AM

Where could I purchase lemongrass oil?

Understudy · May 12, 2007, 01:10:47 AM

Health food store
Ebay
New Age shop.

Sincerely,
Brendhan

Kathyp · May 12, 2007, 01:25:15 AM

i got mine from ebay. i found a company that i like and have ordered other essential oils from them. once for shipping no matter how much you order. if you are interested, i'll look up the name tomorrow.

wtiger · May 12, 2007, 04:03:04 AM

would a dab of honey-b-healthy work?

Understudy · May 12, 2007, 08:52:56 AM

Yes but not as well as pure lemongrass oil.

Sincerely,
Brendhan

DayValleyDahlias · May 12, 2007, 11:08:07 AM

Today I will go to the health food store and get some lemongrass oil!

asprince · May 12, 2007, 09:40:54 PM

Kathyp, I got mine from Ebay as well but I don't think I received the correct stuff. From a thread on another post, it should smell like lemon pledge. Mine smells earthy. Steve

Michael Bush · May 12, 2007, 10:54:43 PM

>Where could I purchase lemongrass oil?

You already did in those little plastic vials. :) But it's cheaper by the pint.