As the cold winter months approach, it’s essential to provide ample nourishment for our hardworking bees. One effective method is to install a candy board to help sustain them during hibernation. This simple project not only benefits your bees but is also a rewarding experience for beekeepers. Below, we will explore how to install a candy board and its benefits for your bee colony.
Installing The Candy Board
Setting up a candy board is an excellent way to ensure your bees have enough to eat when flowers are scarce. Candy boards are typically thicker than regular feeders and are packed with sugar, providing an easily digestible source of energy. Below, we will guide you step-by-step on how to create and install a candy board for your bees.
Ingredients for Your Candy Board
- 10 lbs of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar (optional, helps keep the candy from fermenting)
- Optional: Flavoring extracts (like peppermint or anise) to encourage bees to feed
Instructions to Prepare the Candy Board
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, water, corn syrup, and vinegar. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick paste. If you choose to add flavoring extracts, now is the time to do so.
- Mold the Candy: Find a shallow container that fits well on top of your beehive. You can use a wooden frame or a plastic container. Pour the sugar mixture into the container, leveling it off to create a flat surface.
- Set to Dry: Allow the candy board to dry for at least 24-48 hours, or until it hardens completely. This ensures it won’t be too sticky and will hold its shape when placed on the hive.
- Install the Candy Board: Once your candy board has dried, place it directly on top of your hive, ensuring there’s no distance between the board and the bees. If it’s too cold, you might want to wrap the hive with insulation to keep your bees cozy.
By following these steps, you will provide your bees with a much-needed food source during the winter months. Remember to check on them periodically throughout the season to ensure they are thriving and have enough eating supplies until the flowers bloom again in spring. Happy beekeeping!
candy board for bees for sale
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