Feeding bees outside the hive is a common practice in beekeeping, especially when natural forage is scarce or when supporting new colonies. The process involves providing bees with a sugar syrup or honey mixture in a way that is accessible to them while minimizing risks like robbing or contamination. Open feeding and using specialized feeders are the two primary methods. Open feeding involves placing the sugar mixture in large, open containers like buckets or bird baths, while specialized feeders like mason jar feeders or entrance feeders offer a more controlled approach. Both methods have their advantages and considerations, such as the risk of attracting pests in open feeding or the need for proper placement with feeders.

Key Points Explained:

1. Open Feeding Method:

   • Open feeding involves placing a sugar-water mixture in large, open containers like 5-gallon buckets or bird baths.
   • This method is simple and allows bees to access the food freely. However, it can attract other insects or animals and may lead to robbing by other bee colonies.
   • It is best used in areas with low bee density or when feeding multiple colonies simultaneously.

2. Specialized Feeders:

   • A beekeeping feeder like a mason jar feeder, entrance feeder, or frame feeder provides a more controlled way to feed bees.
   • Mason jar feeders are easy to use and can be placed directly on the hive or nearby. Entrance feeders are installed at the hive entrance, while frame feeders are placed inside the hive.
   • These methods reduce the risk of robbing and contamination but require proper setup and monitoring.

3. Sugar Syrup Mixture:

   • A common feeding solution is a 1:1 or 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio, depending on the bees' needs. A 1:1 mixture is used for stimulating brood production, while a 2:1 mixture is better for winter storage.
   • The mixture should be made with clean water and granulated sugar to avoid harmful additives.

4. Feeding New Colonies:

   • New colonies, such as packages or nucleus colonies, often require supplemental feeding to establish themselves.
   • Providing a sugar syrup solution helps sustain them during their initial orientation period and encourages comb building.

5. Seasonal Considerations:

   • Feeding should be avoided during the main honey flow to prevent adulteration of honey with sugar syrup.
   • Slow feeding methods, such as contact feeders or smaller tray feeders, are recommended when feeding is necessary during the season.

6. Preventing Pests and Robbing:

   • When using open feeding, place the containers away from the hive to reduce the risk of robbing.
   • For specialized feeders, ensure they are properly sealed and placed to prevent access by pests like ants or wasps.

7. Hive Location and Maintenance:

   • Elevate hives off the ground on stands to deter pests and improve airflow.
   • Place hives in sunny locations with good airflow to support colony health and reduce moisture buildup.

By understanding these key points, beekeepers can effectively feed their bees outside the hive while minimizing risks and supporting colony health.

Summary Table:

Need help feeding your bees safely and effectively? Contact our beekeeping experts today for personalized advice!