Providing supplemental nutrition to honeybee colonies involves creating a simple syrup solution. This solution is typically comprised of granulated sugar dissolved in water at various ratios, depending on the season and the colony’s needs. For instance, a 1:1 ratio (equal parts sugar and water) is often used during the spring and fall to stimulate comb building and brood rearing, while a 2:1 ratio (two parts sugar to one part water) is used in the fall to help bees build up winter stores.
Offering this prepared sustenance can be critical for colony survival, particularly during periods of nectar dearth, such as late summer, or when establishing new colonies. Historically, beekeepers have employed different feeding methods, ranging from open feeders to internal hive feeders, to ensure the bees have access to the necessary carbohydrates for energy and survival. These feeding practices help maintain colony health, increase honey production in subsequent seasons, and prevent starvation during harsh weather.
