Candy Board Recipe For Bees

As winter approaches, it’s time to ensure our busy little friends—the bees—are well taken care of. A winter beehive candy board is a wonderful way to provide them with a sustainable food source during the chilly months when nectar is scarce. This sweet treat not only helps keep the bees nourished but also supports the health of the entire hive. In this post, we’ll delve into how to create a winter beehive candy board, perfect for keeping your bees happy and healthy. Let’s get started!

A Winter Beehive Candy Board

Feeding your bees homemade candy is a beautiful way to show appreciation for their hard work throughout the warmer months. This recipe is simple, effective, and made with ingredients you might already have at home.

Ingredients

5 pounds of granulated sugar
1 cup of water
1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar
Optional: a few drops of essential oils (like peppermint or wintergreen) to invigorate the bees

Instructions

Begin by combining the sugar and water in a large pot over medium heat. Stir the mixture until all the sugar is dissolved, making sure to avoid any unnecessary boiling.
Once the sugar has dissolved, add the white vinegar. This step helps prevent crystallization, ensuring a smoother candy consistency.
If you wish to add essential oils for the bees’ benefit, now is the time. Stir them gently into the mixture.
Continue heating the mixture until it reaches about 240°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Once it reaches the desired temperature, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. The mixture should be cool enough to handle but still pourable.
While the candy mixture is cooling, prepare your beehive by placing a piece of wax paper or parchment paper on a sturdy, flat board that fits snugly on top of your beehive.
Carefully pour the candy mixture onto the prepared board and spread it evenly. Allow it to harden completely before placing it on the hive.
Once the candy is set, gently place it on top of the beehive, ensuring that bees have access to it from their entrance.

With this winter beehive candy board, you’ll be giving your bees the nourishment they need to thrive until spring blossoms arrive. By caring for your bees through the winter, you contribute to their health and ensure a productive hive come the warmer days. Happy beekeeping!