This is the time of year to pick up a cheap tree stand. Deer hunting is over and the stands are on sale. These work great for swarm hives. Make sure it is big enough for a deep hive body.
Put up the tree stand in May. Take it down in Aug. I use hive staples to attach a bottom board to a deep hive body. Fill the box with frames. They should have foundation. Drawn comb is attractive to swarms but may fall victim to wax moths or hive beetle.
Set the tree stand at 7 - 8 feet above the ground and put the box on it.
Every time you visit the beeyard a quick glance at the entrance will tell you if a swarm has moved in. Swarms can easily be combined with a weak colony or let them build up and add frames of brood to any colony to increase their numbers.
If a swarm is in the box, care is needed to get it down. It may be heavy with honey. Safely take it down. Have some help to hold a ladder.
