How to Feed Honey Bees Corn Syrup

Honey bees need to find nectar not only to make the honey that humans enjoy, but also to sustain the hive. There are certain times of the year, however, when pollen and nectar to make that honey is not readily available, mainly during the late fall through early spring. These are the times of year when the beekeeper must provide sustenance to the hives by providing them with the nourishment they need. Corn syrup is one of the foods that beekeepers can offer to bees to help the colony survive until nectar is once again available.

Things You'll Need

  • Corn syrup
  • Water
  • Bowl
  • Spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Canning jar with lid
  • Awl
  • Hammer
  • Funnel
  • Feeder, such as a Boardman feeder
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Instructions

    • 1

      Mix the corn syrup and water in a large bowl. Use equal amounts of water and corn syrup. Stir well with a spoon to completely combine the water and the corn syrup.

    • 2

      Take the lid from the canning jar and place it on a cutting board. Use the awl and hammer to punch fine holes in the lid. Be careful not to make the holes too big or the corn syrup mixture will drain out too quickly for the bees to consume. Punch the holes from the outside of the lid inward.

    • 3

      Set the funnel on the opening of the jar. Pour the corn syrup mixture into the jar. Fill the jar 2/3 full.

    • 4

      Screw the lid on the jar tightly. Tip it over the sink to make sure the corn syrup mixture will come out slowly. Re-punch some holes on a new lid if the corn syrup comes out too fast.

    • 5

      Disrupt the bees in the hive as little as possible by placing the jar at the hive late in the evening. Turn the jar upside down and set it at the entrance to the hive, using the feeder to hold the jar and prevent it from tipping over.