Are your honeybees struggling through a lean time? Giving them a little extra help can make a big difference in their health and productivity. One fantastic way to supplement their diet, especially during periods of poor nectar flow, is by making a candy board. This simple recipe provides a readily available source of energy to keep your hive thriving. It's a rewarding project for any beekeeper, beginner or experienced, and a great way to show your buzzing friends some love. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup (or invert sugar for an even better option)
- 1/2 cup water
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Candy thermometer
- 8-inch square baking pan or similar container (lined with parchment paper for easy removal)
- Hive tool (for opening and closing your hive)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Combine Ingredients: In your saucepan, gently combine the sugar, corn syrup (or invert sugar), and water. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
-
Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Do not stir constantly, but occasionally swirl the pan to prevent burning. Continue cooking, watching carefully, until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard-crack stage – crucial for the candy's proper consistency.
-
Cool Slightly: Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the candy mixture to cool slightly, for about 5-10 minutes. It will still be very hot, so use caution.
-
Pour into Pan: Carefully pour the hot candy mixture into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly to a thickness of about ½ inch.
-
Cool and Harden: Allow the candy to cool and harden completely, undisturbed. This may take a few hours, depending on the ambient temperature.
-
Prepare for the Hive: Once the candy is completely hard and cool, carefully lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. You can break it into smaller pieces if necessary, making it easier for the bees to access.
-
Introduce to the Hive: Using your hive tool, gently lift the inner cover of your hive. Place the candy board on top of the frames, ensuring it doesn't obstruct the bees' access to the honey stores or brood chamber. Replace the inner cover.
Helpful Cooking Tips:
- Use a Candy Thermometer: This is essential for achieving the correct hard-crack stage. Incorrect temperature will result in candy that is too soft or too brittle.
- Don't Stir Too Much: Excessive stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize. Gentle swirling is sufficient.
- Watch for Burning: Keep a close eye on the mixture while it's cooking to prevent it from burning.
- Work Quickly and Safely: The candy mixture is extremely hot while it's being prepared and poured. Use caution to avoid burns.
- Invert Sugar is Best: While corn syrup works, invert sugar is preferred as it's more easily digested by the bees and less likely to crystallize. You can purchase invert sugar or make your own following online recipes.
Variations:
- Adding Pollen Substitute: You can mix in a small amount of pollen substitute to the candy mixture before pouring it into the pan, offering the bees additional nutrients. However, only do this if you are aware of your colony's needs and it is appropriate for your area and season.
- Different Shapes: You can use different molds to create different candy board shapes. Smaller pieces may be easier for the bees to manage.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
Since this is primarily sugar, nutritional information is less relevant than the energy provided. Focus on providing this only when bees need extra energy, not as a regular food source. Overfeeding can negatively impact their foraging behavior and overall health.
Making a candy board is a thoughtful way to support your honeybee colony, particularly when natural food sources are scarce. Remember to always practice safe beekeeping techniques and monitor your hive's progress. Happy beekeeping!