Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between food of maintenance, stimulation and protein?
Maintenance: provides energy to support the colony without over-activating the laying. Stimulation: small rations of light syrup (1:1) that simulate nectar flow and encourage breeding. Protein feed: includes proteins/substitutes of pollen for periods with poor input of pollen.
Syrup 1:1 or 2:1?
1:1 (spring, stimulus): easy to process, encourage breeding. 2:1 (autumn): more concentrated to quickly load reserves with less humidity in the hive.
When to use fondant/pasta?
In winter or when it is not advisable to add water. Place it on the frames; the bees consume it slowly without the need for intense foragers.
Can I use brown or honey commercial sugar?
Recommended white sugar. Brown sugar and molasses may contain poorly suitable compounds (HMFs, minerals). The honey of uncertain origin it can transmit pathogens and also adulterate the harvest, so it is not advised.
How do I get caught up when feeding?
Feed at sunset, avoid spills, work with ratios measured and keep hives weak reduced and closed. The internal feeders minimizes looting.
Where do I stool the food?
Syrups: in feeders internal (higher or frame). Fondant/pastas: about the frames or under the lid, with separation. Bags: performs small perforations on the top face.
When to stop the feeding?
Stop any contributions before the honeyed to prevent the food from ending in the honey intended for consumption.
Can vitamins and nutraceuticals be used?
Yeah, like complement and following dosage of the manufacturer. They do not replace good management or sanitary control.
Does the fondant or pasta expire?
Check the date of the lot. Store in a cool, dry, tightly closed place. If the block hardens excessively, it can be slightly moistened in the hive for ease of consumption.
Quick home syrup preparation ticks?
Use warm drinking water (do not boil the sugar), dissolve and let cool. Clean utensils and avoid rusty metal containers. Label with the date.
Checklist Express - Define objective: encourage, maintain or reserve.
- Adjust density of syrup (1:1 vs 2:1) or use fondant if it's cold.
- Apply small portions and avoid spills.
- Choose feeder internal suitable.
- Stop the feeding before the honeyed.