As with all things beekeeping, it depends on your climate.
Where I am I like to put them East of a deciduous tree. This gives them late day shade during the hot summers and when it loses its leaves, has full sun all winter.
However, I know this isn't always possible. Most people prefer to aim them East to South with as much sun as you can give them. Facing East gives them morning sun as it's said to get them to work earlier. Bees need to keep their brood area round 94 degrees so having the sun help you allows more bees to leave the nest and get to work, rather then stay home and keep things warm.
But I've had swarm traps work facing North in the shade. Do your best and that should be good enough!
Where I am I like to put them East of a deciduous tree. This gives them late day shade during the hot summers and when it loses its leaves, has full sun all winter.
However, I know this isn't always possible. Most people prefer to aim them East to South with as much sun as you can give them. Facing East gives them morning sun as it's said to get them to work earlier. Bees need to keep their brood area round 94 degrees so having the sun help you allows more bees to leave the nest and get to work, rather then stay home and keep things warm.
But I've had swarm traps work facing North in the shade. Do your best and that should be good enough!