Bees will use HiveKeepers frames, especially during a strong nectar flow. While bees often prefer natural wax, they readily accept plastic frames when primed with beeswax and placed in the hive at the right time.
One of the most common questions beekeepers have is whether the bees will actually use the cassette system.
It’s a fair concern.
Bees are selective about where they build and store honey, and traditional wooden frames with wax foundation have worked well for a long time.
So where does HiveKeepers fit into that?
Do bees use plastic frames?
Yes.
Bees can and do use plastic frames, particularly when conditions are conducive to nectar storage. During a strong nectar flow, when bees are actively bringing in nectar and looking for space to store it, they are far more likely to accept and use the cassette.
This is the same behaviour seen with other plastic foundations used in beekeeping.
How do you encourage the bees to use the cassette?
There are two key factors.
First, priming the cassette with beeswax. A light coating of wax gives the bees a familiar scent and texture, helping them recognise it as a usable space.
Second, timing. Installing the frame during a nectar flow makes a significant difference. When bees are actively storing nectar, they are much more likely to draw out and fill the cassette quickly.
If these two are in place, acceptance is usually straightforward.
Do bees prefer natural materials?
Yes, they often do.
Traditional wooden frames with wax foundation work extremely well, and bees are naturally drawn to wax. That hasn’t changed.
HiveKeepers works within that behaviour by using wax priming and timing to support acceptance, rather than trying to force a different behaviour.
What should you expect in your hive?
Some hives will take to the cassette quickly, especially during a strong flow.
Others may take a little longer.
That’s normal.
Once the bees begin using the cassette, they will fill and cap it just like any other part of the hive.
👉 Trust builder
“prime the cassette with beeswax”
👉 Getting Started: From Box to Hive
“nectar flow”
👉 When to Harvest Honey
“begin using the cassette”
👉 Understanding the Cassette System
