Starting Pre Fall Inspections Hive #4

[Jen]

Hi Cpn, just a note for yours and mine info on winter feeding. I had to start feeding my hive in early Feb for survival purposes. I did research and listened to all that was offered on forum. I'm curious why the pollen patties during winter? It is my understanding that pollen patties could amp up the queen to start laying way too early. I learned here on forum about 'winter patties' for nutrition and sustainability during the last part of winter to keep them alive. Then closer to spring, start the 'pollen patties' to help the hive feed new brood until you see the bees bringing in pollen on their own.

[CpnObvious]

I'm not entirely sure I have the recommended amount of pollen stores. Though, that does seem to be changing a bit. The inspector didn't say anything about them, I don't think, I may have just made an assumption. Let's see what more more knowledgeable cold-weather folks here have to say.

[riverbee]

what jen said.......

you really don't need to feed your hives pollen patties capn, not during winter months. next time you are in your hives, take note as to how many frames have pollen stores in them, that you can see.

[barry42001]

Feeding pollen patties will stimulate brood rearing.

[CpnObvious]

well, then!  I guess I shouldn't worry about pollen patties until the spring!

Thanks guys (and gals)!

[Jen]

I started learning about pollen patties vs winter patties in January when I first came on forum, Then there is fondant vs drivert sugar which will be coming up this Fall.