Apis MelliferaAdding Wax to Plastic Foundation
As a long term cost effective measure and also to minimize the use of commercial foundation, of which there is evidence of foundation wax being commonly contaminated by chemical pesticides1, I am attempting to introduce Pierco plastic frames in some of my hives this year.
To increase the chance of acceptance, I have heard from experienced users that adding more bees wax to the standard plastic foundation is helpful. I melted my "clean" wax in a slow cooker (crock pot) and applied the wax with a foam brush. It takes a little practice, but the result where much better than I was expecting. The warm wax attaches to the high points in the plastic foundation, creating a build up of wax on the hexagon features as seen in the photo.
I did not find out until after my purchase, that Pierco frames are also available with no wax added from the factory. Then I could have applied my "clean" wax directly to the new unwaxed Pierco frames.
Another incentive to increase the chance of acceptance is to spray on sugar syrup on the frames when introduced. I have had some unexpected losses this year, so I have delayed introducing the new plastic frames.
If you use plastic frames or foundation, let me know what you have experienced. You can contact me via twitter, facebook or my email (tony-at-apis.me).
Posted on May 5, 2009
1. Berry, Jennifer. (2009, January). Pesticides, Bees And Wax. Bee Culture, Vol. 137 No. 1, 33-35. Link