To prepare a pollen patty, mix a dry pollen substitute with 1:1 sugar syrup until you achieve a firm, dough-like consistency. This mixture is flattened between sheets of wax or greaseproof paper, scored to create access points, and applied directly inside the hive above the brood box.
Pollen patties serve as a critical protein source to stimulate brood rearing when natural pollen is unavailable. The effectiveness of the patty relies heavily on placing it in immediate proximity to the brood nest so nurse bees can access it without leaving the cluster.
Creating the Patty
The preparation process focuses on texture and accessibility. The goal is to create a supplement that remains moist but holds its shape within the hive environment.
Achieving the Correct Consistency
Combine your chosen pollen substitute with 1:1 sugar syrup.
Mix thoroughy until the texture resembles dough. It should be malleable enough to flatten but firm enough not to drip or run.
Shaping and Packaging
Sandwich the dough mixture between two sheets of wax paper or greaseproof paper.
Flatten the mixture to create a uniform patty. The paper acts as a casing to keep the patty moist and prevents it from sticking to hive components.
Scoring for Access
Using a knife or tool, score the paper on one side of the patty.
Create a cross-hatched pattern with lines spaced approximately 1 inch (25mm) apart. These cuts are essential because they provide the bees with direct entry points to the protein dough.
Applying the Patty to the Hive
Proper placement is vital. If the patty is too far from the nurse bees, the colony may ignore it entirely.
Correct Placement Location
Open the hive and locate the brood box.
Place the patty directly on the top bars of the frames, situated immediately above the brood cluster. This ensures the protein is available exactly where the young larvae are being raised.
Orientation of the Patty
Place the patty with the scored side facing down.
The cuts in the paper must face the frames so bees can climb up and access the food through the cross-hatched openings you created.
Understanding Usage and Trade-offs
While pollen patties are effective tools for stimulation, they require monitoring to ensure they are benefiting the colony.
Monitoring Consumption Rates
A strong, active colony will typically consume a 1 lb pollen patty in seven to ten days.
Use this timeline as a benchmark to gauge the colony's protein deficit. If they consume it rapidly, their need for protein is high.
Managing Excess
If the bees do not consume the patty within a reasonable timeframe, it may indicate that natural pollen is sufficient or the colony is too weak to utilize it.
Unconsumed patties can attract hive beetles or mold. Remove old patties if they are not being eaten to maintain hive hygiene.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Applying pollen patties is a strategic decision based on the season and the colony's developmental stage.
- If your primary focus is stimulating early spring brood: Apply patties when weather permits flight but natural pollen sources are not yet blooming.
- If your primary focus is supporting a colony during a dearth: Monitor the hive for 7-10 days; if the patty is consumed quickly, continue feeding to maintain population strength.
Success lies in consistency: the right dough texture, precise placement over the brood, and regular monitoring of consumption.
Summary Table:
| Preparation Phase | Action Required | Key Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing | Combine dry substitute with 1:1 sugar syrup | Firm, dough-like consistency |
| Packaging | Flatten between wax or greaseproof paper | Keeps mixture moist and prevents dripping |
| Scoring | Create a cross-hatched pattern on one side | Lines spaced 1 inch (25mm) apart |
| Placement | Position on top bars above brood cluster | Scored side must face down for bee access |
| Monitoring | Check consumption every 7-10 days | Remove if unconsumed to prevent hive beetles |
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