Summer Leaf bees hibernate as mature larvae inside their leafy cocoons. Incubation is essential for their development into adult bees, requiring warmth, humidity, and time.

Summer Leaf Bee Incubation Kit™ Instructions

The Summer Leaf Bee Incubation Kit™ provides a safe, temperature-controlled environment for incubating Summer Leaf bee cocoons. 

SETTING UP THE INCUBATION BOX

Prepare the Heat Mat

  • Plug in the heat mat.
  • Turn the knob to align the marks, ensuring it will warm up the mat.
Prepare the Incubation Box
  • Open the incubation box and place the green pad at the bottom. Ensure the top with the holes remains clear.
  • Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water to the green pad.
  • Place the black absorbent pad over the wet green pad.
  • Place the laminated instructions over the black pad.
  • Place the cocoon tray on top of the laminated instructions.
  • Add the humidity gauge into the cocoon tray.
  • Close the lid and place the box onto the heat mat.
Warm Up and Humidify
  • Allow the incubation box to warm up to a consistent 75 to 87°F.
  • Ensure the humidity rises above 55%.

INCUBATING LEAFCUTTER COCOONS

Add Leafcutter Cocoons

  • Place the Summer Leaf bee cocoons into the cocoon tray. Note: Summer Leaf bee cocoons are NOT waterproof.
  • Ensure the humidity gauge is visible in the cocoon tray with the cocoons.
  • Close the lid. The holes will provide sufficient air circulation.

Monitor Development

  • Check the incubation box periodically for humidity levels and emerged bees.
  • At 85°F (30°C), adults will emerge after approximately 21 days.
  • At 70°F (21°C), adults will emerge after approximately 42 days.
  • Maintain humidity between 55% and 75%.

Release Adult Bees

  • Once adult Leafcutter bees start to emerge, release the cocoons.

    MAINTENANCE & CARE

    Weekly Checks

    • Check at least once a week for humidity levels, emerged bees, or wasps.
    • Remove the cocoon tray and gauge as needed.
    • Rinse the green and black pads with warm water.
    • Wipe away any mold that may develop on the box.

    Watch for Parasitic Wasps

    • Pteromalus parasitic wasps can emerge after about 9+ days and attack developing cocoons.
    • Check for parasitic wasps and kill any that you find.
    • Open the box inside the bee guard bag and gently shake the cocoons to ensure any wasps fly up and out inside the bee guard bag.

      IMPORTANT NOTES

      • Ensure the incubation box is placed in a dark, warm location.
      • Periodically check for emerged bees and release them promptly.
      • Maintain the necessary humidity and temperature levels for optimal bee development.

      By following these steps, you will provide a safe and effective environment for your Summer Leaf bees to thrive.