Fondant - make or buy?

[loving_allsorts]

Hi there,

I'm going to shove some fondant into the hive next time the weather picks up. Is it best to make or buy? If buy which make is the best and where do I get it at its cheapest?

Cheers folk

Mark

 

[Erichalfbee]

Here's some made earlier
http://www.beekeepingforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=15290&highlight=fondant
http://www.beekeepingforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=15006&highlight=fondant
http://www.beekeepingforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=14949&highlight=fondant

 

[oliver90owner]

... into the hive next time the weather picks up.

I would likely debate the 'into', as oppsed to 'onto' and also the timing, as they could be dead before it does - but, hey, do as you please. You will not get it at it's cheapest as I doubt you will need more than about 2kg, or 3 kg at the most, for a single hive at this stage of the winter.

I suggest you investigate local suppliers for the best price, but do not tarry too long if the bees are in need of this sustenance. Guide price? I only bought a mere 25kg and it cost me just over a quid a kilo, a short while before Christmas, and about a quid on top, for transport. I belive Beebreeder can sell at a better price than I paid. Shipping from Wiltshire may counteract any savings, however

RAB.

 

[jimbeekeeper]

. Is it best to make or buy? If buy which make is the best and where do I get it at its cheapest?

Cheers folk

Mark

There is no real make/brand of fondant, fondant is fondant. As for price as RAB say about £1 per kg. Have a chat with a local bakers, they might sell you a std 12kg block for about £10 - £15.

As for putting it on (or in!) the hive, best to put it on (in) the hive on top of the crown board with hole in board, a super on the board ( surrounding the fondant) and possibly some insulation (polystyrene or similar), then the roof on.

As for when, only you can really tell that. Some hives might have good stores, but ignore it over the fondant, bruising stores might help.