Good storage practices

Store extracted frames and hive equipment in clean, dry, well-lit, and ventilated areas to make them unattractive to small hive beetles. Remove as much honey and pollen residue as possible before storage, since these residues are the primary attractants for SHB and wax moths.

Why It Works

Small hive beetles are attracted to the odor of fermented pollen and honey. Equipment stored in dark, humid conditions closely mimics the interior of a hive and encourages beetle colonization. Eliminating food sources and creating an unfavorable environment significantly reduces pest pressure without chemicals.

Tips

• Allow strong colonies to clean wet supers before storing them
• Stack equipment off the ground on pallets or shelving to reduce moisture and pest access
• Keep storage areas well-lit, as SHB prefer dark environments
• Inspect stored equipment monthly for signs of beetle larvae or slime
• Seal cracks and gaps in storage buildings to prevent adult beetle entry