We now have Bee Cozy Wraps available for $30.00.
Bee Cozy Winter Hive Wraps have been tried and tested in the fields for over 23 years. The bees come out of winter much stronger, which makes them more likely to have a productive season. The bees also use less feed compared to any other method tested. This is a direct savings to you, which offsets to cost of the wraps, making them even more affordable.
The Wraps are very easy to work with. This saves you valuable time getting ready for winter and reusable from year to year.
Description:
R8 Fiberglass insulation wrapped in 8 mil thick, black heavy plastic wrap. Wraps, both outer and top, do not retain or absorb moisture. Upper ventilation holes are required. Top batt is a clear, 8 mil thick heavy plastic.
Equipment:
Entrance reducer: 5/8 inch plywood cut to 14 5/8 inches by 2 ½ inches with a 3/8 by 6 inch notch on one edge. A 3″ galvanized nail.
Deep rim inner cover with built in upper entrance (recommended) or 1 ½ to 2 inch inner cover rim to be set on an inner cover with an upper entrance.
Insulated black plastic outer wrap.
Insulated top batt: R-8 fiberglass insulation cut to 15″ x 16″ and slid into a plastic bag, bag partially closed with a sealer.
Wrapping:
NOTE: Do each step to all the hives for greatest efficiency
Make sure the hives are well off the ground and tipped forward
Set hive covers upside down in front of the hives
Place in hive covers in order:
a) top batt
b) outer wrap
c) inner cover rim (if required)
d) entrance reducer with 3″ nail started in center
Smoke hive and nail on entrance reducers, notch down, leaving approximately 2″ of nail protruding.
Place on inner cover rims if not a deep rim inner cover. There MUST be an upper entrance to the front of the hive.
Unwrapping:
3 Step Process
1) Outer wrap
2) Inner cover batt
3) Entrance reducer
Entrance reducers can be left in the yard or stored elsewhere. The inner cover batts can be stored in barrel bags. The outer wraps can be stacked 8 to 10 in a pile, compressed, and slid into barrel bags. Store bags in a dry location. If a wrap picks up moisture, hang on a clothes line with the vent holes down to drain dry for a few days. Repairs can be made with good quality duct tape.