How to Use and Care for Your Crown Bees House
Each Crown Bees house is made from sustainably sourced Western red cedar β responsibly harvested using selective, downed, and post-wildfire forestry practices. Our partners intentionally use scrap and recovered wood when possible, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Every house is proudly built here in Western Washington.
Cedar naturally resists rot, warping, and moisture which helps protect your nesting bees from harsh weather and wind. The joints are glued and stapled for structural durability and long-term outdoor performance.
Choose from several designs including our Cabana, Chalet, and Tower β all featuring an attic space that can be used for cocoon release in spring.
Want to host multiple pollinator species? The Rewild Refuge Bee House Set includes natural reeds in different diameters to support a variety of cavity-nesting bees.
Pro Tip: To keep your cedar house looking its best, bring it indoors during winter. Treat it with our Cedar House Preservative and store it in a dry place, away from freezeβthaw moisture.
Installation & Placement
- Select a location facing South to Southeast β morning sun helps bees warm up and begin flying earlier.
- Provide afternoon shade in hot regions that consistently exceed 90Β°F / 32Β°C.
- Mount on a wall, fence, or post at approximately 5 ft (1.5 m) for observation and pest protection.
- The built-in keyhole slot makes hanging easy with a single screw or nail.
- Place within 300 ft (100 m) of flowering plants to ensure pollen and nectar are nearby.
- Keep away from bird feeders and bird nesting areas.
You may paint or stain your cedar house using low-VOC finishes. Let it cure for at least a month before installing outdoors.
In fall, remove your bee house and bring it inside for winter storage. Replace nesting materials and prepare for spring.
Sign up for BeeMail for monthly tips, seasonal timing, and reminders for how to maintain your bee house throughout the year.