Bee House Setup Guide: Where and How to Install
Proper placement of your bee house is one of the most important steps for healthy, thriving bees. A well-positioned house keeps nesting tubes dry, warm, and protected—so your Mason and Summer Leaf bees stay active and productive all season.
Fall Care Tip: In the fall, take down your bee house to clean out debris and remove any pests, parasites, or mold. After cleaning, apply a light coat of rosewood preservative to protect the cedar, then store the house in a dry place through winter. It’ll be ready to hang again in early spring.
Watch: Bee House Setup
Best Practices Checklist
- Mount securely on a steady surface (fence, wall, post, or tree trunk). The house should not sway in the wind.
- Face east to southeast for morning sun (warms bees to start their day). In hot regions, provide afternoon shade.
- Height: eye level (about 4–7 ft), so you can observe activity and service the house.
- Wind & rain protection: pick a spot with overhead cover or a slight eave if possible.
- For Mason Bees: ensure a clay-like mud source within ~20–50 ft. Clay-rich soil is ideal. No clay nearby? Use our Mud Mix.
- For Summer Leaf Bees: nearby leafy plants are helpful for leaf gathering; they don’t need mud.
- Foraging distance: aim for flowers, shrubs, and trees within ~300 ft; avoid pesticide use.
- Nesting materials: bee-safe, breathable, and openable tubes/trays, sealed at one end.
Tip: A light south- or east-facing wall with partial cover often works beautifully—warm mornings, protected afternoons.
Good vs. Bad Bee Houses
See what to look for in quality design, and what to avoid.
- Bamboo bundles or plastic blocks that can’t be opened/cleaned (harbor pests & pathogens).
- Unsealed tubes open at both ends (not safe for developing bees).
- Unstable mounts, full afternoon sun in hot climates, or heavy exposure to rain.
Upgrade Old Houses in Your Community
If you see a worn-out or poorly designed bee house nearby, consider offering a healthier alternative and sharing this neighbor-friendly pamphlet. A clean, bee-safe house helps protect local pollinators and inspires better care.
Learn More
- Bee Knowledgeable — step-by-step guides and seasonal care.
- Rewilding — how to support wild pollinators with habitat and plant choice.
- Harmful Nesting Materials — what to avoid (and why).