Too late to feed, now what?

[aberreef]

Having had some of the worst months of my life I've not got round to feeding the hives (they've been a bit neglected really, although I did manage to treat with thymol). They feel a decent weight, the bees having worked the Ivy and balsam really hard during some pretty decent weather recently so I'm not overly concerned as yet.

Should I just monitor their weight over the coming months and feed fondant if needed or should I do something now?

 

[VEG]

Think you have answered your own question. Monitor and feed fondant as needs be.

 

[aberreef]

Thought so, always good to check though

 

[Chris B]

they'll still take a liquid feed though. Personally I'd do it if you've got time. Otherwise heft in Jan/Feb and don't lose sleep over it in the meantime.

 

[adrian wilford]

they are still taking syrup, with this mild weather, they have not clustered so far

 

[jenkinsbrynmair]

Weather is still fairly mild in our area (Southish wales) so you could get away with a bit more syrup, still got a gallon on one of my hives as they're a bit slow in taking it down although they've got plenty of room.
But again syrup, fondant what's the difference ? we've got fondant on some of the association hives - as long as the bees survive.

 

[Chrisfnvs]

We are going to give ours one more feed of syrup (the ones that need it ) then a slab of fondant for the winter, although they are still taking lots of pollen in most are now quite heavy and are in a good position to go through the winter Chris

 

[Arfermo]

There is no reason not to at least try feeding a small amount of syrup to ensure they have enough to take them through to Xmas when oxalic treatment and fondant is usual. It should only be given in small quantities and they will not take it if they don't want/need it.

 

[Cazza]

There is no reason not to at least try feeding a small amount of syrup to ensure they have enough to take them through to Xmas when oxalic treatment and fondant is usual. It should only be given in small quantities and they will not take it if they don't want/need it.

Why only in small quantities?
I have a folk memory that some forumers here stick a large slab on at a time?
Cazza

 

[aberreef]

Thanks for the advice all. The bees have been quite inactive this past week or so. It's been quite blustery, damp and downright miserable so not much chance of flying. I was hoping to look through the hives but no chance so far this week

 

[VEG]

sun has been shining here today so sort them out lol( i'm not that far from you). Doesnt have to be great weather to slap some fondant on.

 

[fatshark]

Why only in small quantities?
I have a folk memory that some forumers here stick a large slab on at a time?
Cazza

6+kg at a time ... no problem, they take it all down, leaving an empty blue bag at the end. And then they have another. Peter Edwards of Stratford on Avon beekeepers does this with an entire bag sliced in half and upended over a QE.

All my hives received fondant only this year ...