Bee hydration station

Step one
Create a concrete mould by placing the circular insert inside the pot plant saucer, making sure it’s centred and glue into position. Place the wooden offcut between the two, as shown (this will create an overflow channel).

Step two
Spread some concrete release agent over the mould by gently rubbing it across the surface with a clean cloth. Make sure to cover all parts of the mould to ensure a smooth release.

Step three
Mix a small amount of concrete with water in a bucket, paying close attention to the recommended water-tomix ratio on the bag.

Step four
Pour the concrete mixture into the mould, ensuring it reaches the brim.

Step five
Lightly tap and shake the mould to release any trapped air bubbles, allowing the concrete to settle evenly. Leave it to set – we left it undisturbed for two days.

Step six
Gently remove the concrete from the mould and sand down any rough spots. Wipe off any dust and debris.

Step seven
Apply one coat of Resene Aquapel & Terracotta Sealer to the outside and bottom of the concrete, allowing at least two hours to dry.

Step eight
Apply one coat of Resene Deep Koamaru to the outside and bottom of the concrete, allowing at least two hours to dry.

Step nine
Glue the gemstones to the base one by one, placing them flat side up to create ‘islands’ for the bees to land on. Leave small channels between them for water flow, making sure they’re not large enough for bees to drown.

Step ten
After gluing down all the gemstones, double-check to make sure that each one is level.

Step eleven
Glue the jar band (without the sealing lid) upside down in the centre of the base, on top of the gemstones, as shown. Allow glue to dry.

Step twelve
Fill your jar with water. Securely hold the jar with one hand and loosely attach the bee feeder base. In one swift motion, while firmly holding the jar on the base, flip the hydration station – this will hold the water in the jar. Position it in your garden (we placed ours on an upsidedown plant pot), ensure it’s level, and let the water fill the channels. If the water creates a seal in the jar and doesn’t fill all the channels right away, gently tip it to allow airflow.