Mixing sugar syrup
Apr 10th, 2004 by Robo
Today I mixed a bit of thin sugar syrup for a spring feeding to help boost the bees. We have had very cold nights, and not to many days that have been above 50degrees. This is the time of year that puts a lot of strain on a hive as it attempts to keep the hive warm enough for brood rearing. I can never remember if the ratio is by volume or weight, not that it needs to be an exact science, but here is how I generally mix syrup…..
The easy way to mix these recipes is to use pounds of sugar to pints of water.
- 1:2 is 1 pound of sugar dissolved in 2 pints of water. This is a Spring mixture used to stimulate the queen to start laying.
- 1:1 is 1 pound of sugar dissolved in 1 pint of water. This is a mixture used to encourage comb building.
- 2:1 is 2 pounds of sugar dissolved in 1 pint of water. This is a Fall mixture used to make winter stores.
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I mix by the five-gallon bucket. A paint-mixer attachment for the hand drill is handy for the mixing part. Any leftover get set out as open-feed or stored with a bit of vinegar as preservative. Here are my formulas:
1:2 – 15 pounds granulated sugar + four gallons non-cold water
1:1 – 20 pounds granulated sugar + three gallons tap-hot water
2:1 – 40 pounds granulated sugar + three gallons water at hard boil
In all cases, I add a bit of Honey-B-Healthy (1/8 Cup per bucket). The bees seem to like these mixtures just fine.
Also, the water is added to the sugar and no vice-versa. This helps control the water temperature in the case of 2:1. The “hot” mixtures are left out over night to cool before going on the hives.
I measure with five-pound bags of sugar and an ordinary two-quart pitcher; a bit more expensive [the sugar] but very, very easy.
Charles,
Thanks for the great information. I’m sure many will find this helpful.
a bit more expensive [the sugar] but very, very easy.
Don’t be so certain it is more expensive. I have heard many folks claim smaller bags are actually cheaper.
rob…