How To Make Sugar Boards For Bees

What in the Hive is a Bee Candy Board?

Before we start whipping up a storm (or a sweet concoction), let’s break it down! A bee candy board is a food source that helps your bees survive the winter when flowers are scarce. It’s like a tasty buffet delivered right to their doorstep! These boards are packed with sugary goodness, ensuring your little pollinators remain energized and ready to spring back into action come warmer weather.

Ingredients Galore!

Now that we have the lowdown on bee candy boards, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you need:

5 pounds of granulated sugar
1 cup of water
1 cup of corn syrup
1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (bees love the tang!)
Optional: A few drops of bee-friendly essential oils like lemon or peppermint for some zesty flair!

Instructions for Sweetness

All set? Let’s get those bees buzzing with excitement!

In a large pot, combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir it up like you’re at a dance party—make sure all the sugar gets dissolved!
Once everything is blended nicely, heat the mixture over medium heat. You want to bring it to a soft ball stage, which is about 235°F to 240°F (that’s sweet science!).
When you reach that temperature, remove it from the heat. Add the apple cider vinegar (and optional essential oils if you’re feeling fancy) and stir until combined.
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased pan or dish and let it cool. This candy will harden up nicely, like magic!
Once cooled, break it into chunks and voilà! Your bees will soon be enjoying their sweet, sugary feast!

Finishing Touches

To give your bees a proper feast, place the candy on top of the frames inside your hive. It’s like a gourmet meal delivered straight to their door. Ensure they have access to it, but remember to use caution—these little guys can be protective of their territory!

And there you have it! With this simple recipe for bee candy boards, you’ll keep your buzzing buddies happy and healthy through the chilly months. Get ready to watch those bees enjoy their sugary treats—they’ll be dancing with glee in no time!