[Nate Ellis]

I grafted 20 queen cells the other day-only 5 accepted-meant to take them out once sealed but left them in there an extra 2 days now all are way too big for placing in the cell protector cages-will they chew this extra wax off before she emerges? Does brown at the tip of the queen cell indicate its ripe? Whats the best way to attach the cell to the brood frame if it wont fit in a protector?

 

[Velbert]

trim with pocket knife from the side of tip and trim down toward the base don't try to cut all off at once take 2-3 passes until trimmed then at the last take off excess wax on the tip so queen can chew out. don't cut into cocoon on the tip be easy

gently press into face of brood comb just below band of pollen or honey above or into the brood

 

[BEES4U]

Will they chew this extra wax off before she emerges?

Yes, the amount of wax on the cell tip indicates her age. If the cell tip is fuzzy she is about ready to chew out and emerge. I have seen queen less bees in a nuc or a hive come up off the frames and over to the cell.
Some people that I have sold cells to have used the Following:

Aluminum foil, leave the tip uncovered.
Masking tape. leave the tip uncovered
And, the rest of us place the cell into the nuc between the top bars or down about 3-4" into the brood.
Good luck,
Ernie

 

[Nate Ellis]

Thanks alot guys that helps.