Feeding bees fondant in winter

Short of accessible stores this winter? Here's when fondant helps and where to place it.

Winter feeding is about helping bees reach food when they need it. Beekeepers should monitor stores rather than assume a colony has enough to last until spring. A hive can contain food that the winter cluster cannot reach, so weight alone does not tell the whole story.

When might bees need fondant?

Fondant is useful when a colony is short of accessible stores in cold conditions. Bees may be unable or reluctant to access syrup from a feeder in cold weather, and the National Bee Unit recommends fondant close to the cluster in these circumstances. It is not a substitute for assessing the colony or preparing sufficient stores before winter.

Check stores without unnecessary disturbance

Hefting helps you notice changes in hive weight, but cannot rule out isolation starvation: bees may be clustered away from food elsewhere. Avoid unnecessary winter disturbance. Where there is a clear reason to check access to stores, keep any opening brief, choose suitable conditions and avoid breaking up the cluster.

Where should fondant go?

The National Bee Unit describes placing fondant over the crown-board feed hole or on the top bars above the bees. Bees may be reluctant to move through the crown board in very cold conditions. Top-bar feeding needs appropriate space, such as an eke or upturned feeder. Remove this extra space when no longer needed in spring, before the colony fills it with brace comb.

Follow the feed packaging instructions and make sure the bees can reach the fondant. If unsure how to arrange your particular hive, ask an experienced beekeeper or bee inspector.

Choose a suitable pack

Our bee fondant has several pack options. Check the selected pack size before ordering. Pack weight is not a promise of how long it will feed a colony: consumption depends on the colony and conditions. See all our winter essentials, including fondant, a wooden hive entrance and nuc kits, in Winterise Your Hive.

Keep monitoring

Putting fondant on once does not complete winter care. Continue monitoring stores and access to food while keeping disturbance to a minimum. Seek advice if the colony appears weak or its needs are unclear.

Advice and FAQs

Can I use syrup instead? In cold conditions, fondant close to the cluster is more appropriate where bees are unable or reluctant to access syrup.

Does every colony need the same amount? No. Assess stores, access to food and colony needs; follow packaging and seek experienced advice where needed.

Can bees starve when food remains? Yes. Isolation starvation can occur when the cluster cannot reach stores elsewhere.

Is fondant a disease treatment? No. This guide concerns feeding, not disease treatment.

Sources: National Bee Unit Starvation factsheet and Preparing your hives for winter.