plastic foundation

[hank235]

my Italian Bees will not build out cells on my all plastic frames & Foundation. Any suggestions on how to get the bees to use them?

[RayMarler]

Take a small block of beeswax and rub it into the plastic, giving it a coating of sorts. then the bees will take to it much better.

[Barry]

I don't know Ray, might have to rub some pasta on it instead.

[hank235]

Thanks, Ray. I will try it.

[AmericasBeekeeper]

Welcome Hank! Feed them sugar syrup. Light syrup 1:2 initiates comb production better that thick, which is stored.

[hank235]

Thanks, I will try it

[Joseph Clemens]

Here are some documents that may shed some light on this issue. Photos

[RayMarler]

I don't know Ray, might have to rub some pasta on it instead.

Oh Barry, I'd be eating the pasta, it's too good to be giving to the bees.

[deknow]

....we are also in leominster and would be happy to help....right now we are in Florida, but will be back the end of next week. Feel free to send a pm.

Deknow

[Keth Comollo]

I melt beeswax in an old crock pot and roll it on the plastic frames with a small foam paint roller. Bees work it hard after that.