A popular choice for winter feeding bees is fondant. Its unique properties make it suitable for winter months. The mixture is easy to prepare and uses no frames. Instead of using feeders, beekeepers simply place the disks of the food on top of the frames or under the lid. It is a natural sweetener and should be left unsweetened. A small amount of vinegar is fine and will not taste vinegary.
Sugar syrup is not the only choice for bee food. The sugar in syrup can ferment and grow mouldy, so adding a little Thymol or surgical spirit to it will keep it fresh. It will also protect the bees from bacteria. A simple solution is to add a few teaspoons of liquid food coloring to the syrup before feeding the bees. Once the fondant is in place, the bees can cluster and feed themselves.
In Wedmore’s time, beekeepers would cast blocks of fondant into moulds. The blocks were placed in wooden lattice frames, the dimensions of which were similar to the brood frame. The lattice frame was then placed on the fringes of the nest. This method of feeding was not successful in the early part of the spring, so beekeepers began using liquid syrup. The syrup was delivered in frame feeders and remained fresh for many days.
The ingredients for fondant are sugar, water, and vinegar. The best sugar for this is pure white cane sugar, which is non-GMO. Avoid using beet sugar, which is GMO. Brown sugar has molasses or caramelized sugar, which are harmful to bees. If you plan to use the product during the winter season, make sure you store it properly in a fridge. It will stay fresh for up to six months.
Unlike syrup, fondant does not have the risk of moulding. The sweet material is not susceptible to bacterial growth and does not add moisture to the hive. In addition, it does not attract wasps and is safe for the bees. It is also good for the environment, since it is non-GMO. You will be able to use it safely for as long as it is packed well.
If you are a beginner beekeeper, you can start with fondant. This is a soft, non-dripping food that bees love. It keeps the heat in. This is the best choice for winter-breeding. It’s safe and effective for bees, and can be stored for several months. If you want to feed your bees fondant, be sure to follow these tips:
Unlike other types of bee food, fondant is made of three ingredients: sugar, water, and vinegar. It’s important to use non-GMO cane sugar for this project, which will prevent mould. It also contains antibiotics. It’s important to keep in mind that your bees need a constant supply of sugar. So, it’s best to choose a branded brand that is free of any GMOs.
Fondant is a great choice for bees. It doesn’t drip and holds the heat. The bees cluster on it while eating it, which is excellent for emergency feeding. It comes in a sealed bag, which is great for long-term storage. It’s also easy to transport and store. It can even be transported to different parts of the country. There are no bad effects in fondant for bees.
The fondant is made of sugar, water, and vinegar. Its best option is non-GMO cane sugar, as it is non-GMO. Choosing bee food made of bee-friendly ingredients will also help protect your hives. Ideally, the fondant is non-GMO. A small amount of Thymol or surgical spirit will be added to the syrup. These ingredients will keep your bees healthy and safe.
In early to mid-spring, beekeepers may add half a cup of Ultra Bee Pollen Substitute to the mixture. The sugar and water mix should be mixed until a soft ball forms. Afterward, the fondant should be poured onto a non-stick surface. The honey bees are great at finding food, and you should intentionally grow plants that will attract them. You can also create your own food that will taste delicious.
