Place patties directly on the top bars near the brood nest

Position pollen patties flat on the top bars directly above the brood nest, between the inner cover and the frames. This location exposes patties to the warm, humid microclimate maintained by the bee cluster, significantly slowing moisture loss.

Why It Works

The brood nest area holds a steady 34-35°C (93-95°F) with relative humidity around 40-50%. Patties placed here dry far more slowly than those set on top of the inner cover or near the hive entrance, where airflow and temperature swings accelerate evaporation. Proximity to the cluster also means more bees encounter and feed on the patty sooner.

Tips

• Lay patties flat across several top bars rather than folding or stacking them -- more surface contact means better humidity retention
• Leave wax paper on one side of the patty to act as a moisture barrier on the exposed upper face
• Avoid placing patties directly over the entrance where drafts pull moisture away
• Check patty condition during routine inspections and replace any that feel dry or crusty at the edges