Bee Hive Candy Boards For Sale

As the cold winter months approach, ensuring our beloved bees are well-fed is crucial for their survival. One way to help them thrive during this season is by installing a candy board. This simple yet effective feeding method can keep your bees nourished when natural food sources are scarce. Below, I’ll guide you through the process of installing a candy board, along with the necessary ingredients you’ll need.

Preparing the Candy Board

Before diving into the installation, let’s take a look at the candy board itself. It’s a straightforward way to provide a sugary treat to your bees that they’ll enjoy during winter. Here’s an image of what a typical candy board looks like:

Ingredients for the Candy Board

To create a candy board that will keep your bees happy and healthy throughout the winter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

10 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 cup corn syrup (optional for added energy)
Flavoring (like peppermint or spearmint oil, optional)

Instructions for Making the Candy Board

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started with the steps:

Dissolve the Sugar: In a large pot, combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. When it’s dissolved, turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Cool Down: Allow the mixture to boil for about 10 minutes without stirring. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. If you’re adding flavoring, this is the time to mix in a few drops of peppermint or spearmint oil.
Pour and Set: Carefully pour the warm mixture into your candy board mold or a shallow container lined with parchment paper. Spread it out evenly. Allow it to cool completely until it hardens, which may take several hours or overnight.
Install in Hive: Once the candy has set, place the candy board on top of the hive frames. Make sure it’s secure and that your bees have easy access to this sweet treat.
Check Regularly: Throughout the winter, check on the candy board occasionally to ensure that your bees have enough food. You may need to replenish it if they consume it quickly.

By following these steps, you’ll help your bees stay nourished through the colder months. Installing a candy board is a thoughtful way to care for them as they huddle together to keep warm, ensuring they emerge strong and healthy in the spring.