Bee Smokers

Tinder provides the initial flame and is usually made of crumpled bits of newspaper. Kindling is used to create smoldering heat and is typically made of pine needles or egg cartons. Fuel is used to increase smoke production once the fire is burning. Wood chips are usually used to this.

Don’t over-stuff the smoker or light it from the top, it will go out very quickly. Lightly pack crumpled newspaper in the bottom and light it, give the bellow a few occasional puffs, once it’s burning add your kindling. Once your kindling is burning well you can add your larger fuel such as wood chips.

Once your larger fuel is burning, you can close the lid. Remember to occasionally squeeze your bellow and check your fuel supply. Before you start smoking your bees make sure the smoke is cool, you don’t want to scald your bees. Be mindful where you place the smoker, it will burn the surface.