Hey y’all, let’s dive into a sweet treat that’s not just for us but for our buzzing friends out there—the bees! Today, I’m here to show you how to make a candy board for your bees. A candy board is a fantastic way to provide extra food for your hive during scarcity, especially in colder months. So grab your supplies, and let’s get to it!
How To Make A Candy Board For Bees
Check out this awesome image that shows you what we’re creating today!
Ingredients
- 5 pounds of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of corn syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp of vinegar (to help with crystallization)
- Food-grade essential oils (mint or lemongrass, optional for scent)
Instructions
- Start by combining the sugar and water in a large pot. Use a low heat to dissolve the sugar completely, stirring occasionally. This is crucial, fam—make sure no sugar crystals remain!
- Once dissolved, you can add in the corn syrup and vinegar. The corn syrup is optional, but it helps prevent the candy from crystallizing too much and becoming hard as a rock.
- Bring the mixture to a soft ball stage (about 240°F). You can use a candy thermometer to check the temperature if you’ve got one. If not, just keep an eye out for that thick consistency.
- If you want to add some essential oils for a little extra flair, go ahead! Just a few drops will do, and it can help attract the bees.
- Once it’s ready, carefully pour the mixture into a greased pan or a mold that fits in your bee hive. Let it cool completely before removing it from the mold.
- Once it’s set, you can place the candy board on top of your hive, just above the bees. They’ll be able to munch on this energy-packed treat during the tough times.
And there you have it! A simple yet effective way to keep your bees healthy and happy. They bring the buzz to our lives, so let’s return the favor with some homemade candy goodness!
how to make a candy board for honey bees
source = beekeepertips.com