Kimberley Bee Services

Q. How do I know if I need to feed bees?

A. It’s always better to leave plenty of honey on the hives to last through winter, but if it’s a bad year then you may need to feed. Lift up the back of the hives and get an idea of the weight. If they feel light, then you will need to feed. If they feel heavy then there should be enough to get them through. Critical time is early spring. If you are unsure then you may be better to feed rather than take the chance of your bees starving.

Q. What is the easiest way to feed?

A. Leave enough honey and you won’t have to feed! Otherwise the easiest way is to add normal dry white sugar into a flat tray and place it on the top mat under the lid. It can be re filled by removing the hive lid briefly while you add more sugar.

Q. How do you make sugar syrup?

A. 50/50 sugar and water. Using hot water (not boiling) stir in sugar until dissolved (clear). Allow to cool then feed to bees. Keeps for a few weeks without fermenting. Make as needed. For longer storage increase sugar content 75/50.