How to Install Package Bees into a New Hive

Installing package bees into a new hive is one of the most important tasks for new beekeepers. Done correctly, it lays the foundation for a healthy, productive colony. Whether you're a beginner or need a refresher, this detailed guide from Heliotrope Bee, a trusted manufacturer of beekeeping protective gear, walks you through the entire process with care and precision.

What Are Package Bees?

Package bees are a group of bees—usually 2 to 5 pounds—shipped in a screened wooden or plastic box. A standard package includes:

• Worker bees

• A caged queen bee

• A can of sugar syrup for feeding during transport

These bees are ready to be introduced into a new hive, typically in early spring when nectar is becoming available.

When to Install Package Bees

The ideal time to install package bees is during late afternoon or early evening on a mild, calm day. This gives the bees time to settle overnight and reduces the risk of them flying away.

Tip: Avoid rainy, windy, or very cold days.

What You’ll Need

Before starting, make sure you have the following essentials:

• Your new hive setup (bottom board, brood box, frames, inner cover, outer cover)

• Package bees (with caged queen and syrup can)

• Hive tool

• Bee smoker (optional)

• Sugar syrup (1:1 sugar-to-water ratio)

• Protective gear from Heliotrope Bee – beekeeping suits, gloves, and veils
  

Step-by-Step: How to Install Package Bees

1. Prepare the Hive

Set up your hive in its permanent location before the bees arrive. Remove 4-5 frames from the center to make room for the bees to be poured in.

2. Spray the Bees (Optional)

Lightly mist the bees with sugar syrup to calm them and keep them from flying too much during installation.

3. Remove the Queen Cage

Carefully open the package box and remove the queen cage. Check that the queen is alive and active. The cage will be plugged with either a candy plug or a cork.

Tip: If the plug is candy, you're ready to install. If it's a cork, remove it and replace with candy to allow slow queen release.

4. Suspend the Queen Cage in the Hive

Use a rubber band or a frame to suspend the queen cage between two middle frames. Make sure the candy end is facing down, allowing worker bees to eat through and release the queen gradually over 2–3 days.

5. Pour the Bees into the Hive

Firmly tap the package box on the ground to dislodge the bees from the sides. Open the lid and pour the bees into the hive space you made earlier. Gently shake the remaining bees onto the top bars.

6. Reassemble the Hive

Carefully replace the removed frames around the cluster of bees. Add the inner cover and outer cover. Leave the empty package box near the hive so remaining bees can join their colony.

Aftercare: What to Do Next

Feed the Bees

Provide a feeder filled with 1:1 sugar syrup. Package bees need immediate food to start drawing comb and supporting the queen.

Monitor Queen Release

After 3 days, open the hive and check if the queen has been released. If she’s still in the cage, gently release her into the hive.

Inspect After a Week

About 7 days after installation, inspect for:

• Eggs and brood (a sign the queen is laying)

• Comb building

• Bee activity
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Releasing the queen too early – can lead to rejection.

• Installing in cold weather – slows down activity and can harm the bees.

• Forgetting to feed – bees may starve before finding natural nectar.
  

Safety Reminder: Wear Proper Beekeeping Gear

Working with live bees—especially during installation—can be unpredictable. Always wear reliable beekeeping protective clothing to ensure safety. At Heliotrope Bee, we specialize in high-quality, customizable beekeeping suits and gloves that provide full protection and comfort for both beginners and professionals.

Final Thoughts

Installing package bees into a new hive is a rewarding and essential step in starting your beekeeping journey. With patience, proper gear, and a calm approach, your new colony will be thriving in no time. For top-tier protection and professional-grade gear, explore our full collection at Heliotrope Bee.

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