To properly feed pollen substitute inside a hive, place the patty directly on top of the brood frames beneath the crownboard. The most effective method utilizes a thin slab wrapped in plastic or cling film; simply cut a slit along the side of the bag and lay the package slit-side down across the top bars. This specific orientation allows bees to access the feed from below while the packaging retains the moisture required to keep the paste soft.
The success of feeding pollen substitute relies on precise placement and moisture retention. By positioning the slit-side of the package directly over the brood nest, you maximize access for nurse bees while preventing the feed from drying into an unusable solid.
Executing the Feed Procedure
Preparing the Hive
Before placing the feed, you must ensure the workspace is clear. First, use smoke to drive the bees down from the top bars of the frames.
Once the bees have moved, clean the top bars thoroughly. Removing burr comb or propolis ensures the patty will sit flat and accessible against the frames.
Preparing the Substitute
The physical form of the substitute matters. It should ideally be a thin slab contained within a bag or cling wrap.
Do not remove the packaging entirely. Instead, take a sharp knife and cut a slit along one side of the bag. This opening is the access point for the colony.
Correct Placement
Lay the bag slit-side down across the top bars. It must be positioned directly on top of the brood frames where the nurse bees are clustered.
Ensure the bag is laid flat so the crownboard can be replaced without crushing the bees or the patty. Finally, replace the hive roof.
Understanding the Timing
Evaluating the Need
Feeding pollen substitute is most critical during the colony's early spring buildup phase.
You should initiate this process when there is a distinct shortage of natural pollen from flowering plants and trees.
Supporting Brood Production
This feeding method is often used in conjunction with a light stimulatory feed of syrup.
Syrup encourages the queen to lay more eggs, which immediately increases the colony's demand for protein. The pollen substitute provides the resources necessary to support this expanded brood rearing.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The Risk of Desiccation
A common mistake is removing the packaging entirely. The primary reference emphasizes that the bag keeps the remaining paste from drying out.
If the substitute dries out, it becomes too hard for the bees to consume, resulting in wasted resources and potential hive debris.
Placement Accuracy
Avoid placing the patty on the periphery of the hive. It must be over the brood nest.
If placed too far from the cluster, the bees may ignore it, especially during cooler temperatures when they are reluctant to break their formation.
Making the Right Choice for Your Colony
- If your primary focus is stimulating early growth: Feed pollen substitute immediately after providing syrup to support the increased protein demand of new larvae.
- If your primary focus is minimizing waste: Leave the substitute inside its packaging with only a slit cut for access to maintain moisture and freshness.
Correct placement and moisture management transform pollen substitute from a simple supplement into a powerful tool for colony expansion.
Summary Table:
| Step | Action Item | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Clean Top Bars | Remove burr comb/propolis and use smoke to clear bees. |
| 2. Substitute Prep | Cut Access Slit | Keep wrap on; cut a single slit along one side of the patty. |
| 3. Placement | Slit-Side Down | Place directly over the brood nest across the top bars. |
| 4. Maintenance | Moisture Control | Ensure packaging remains intact to prevent the paste from drying out. |
| 5. Timing | Early Spring | Coordinate with syrup feeding to support increased larvae demand. |
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