How to Make Sugar Water for Bees

As a beekeeper, you want to make sure your bees are healthy and thriving. Sugar water is a simple and effective food source that can help keep your bees strong, especially during times when natural nectar sources are scarce. 

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making sugar water for bees. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just starting out, this information will help keep your bees well-fed and happy.

What you’ll need

Making sugar water for bees is a simple task that beginner beekeepers can handle with ease. The process is simple and straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients and a short amount of time. 

The ideal sugar water ratio for bees varies depending on the season. Here are the two most common ratios:

1:1 solution 

This solution is used during spring or summer when there’s an abundant supply of natural nectar for the bees. The equal parts of sugar and water provide the colony with energy without overloading them. 

One cup of sugar weighs approximately the same as 1 ⅛ cups of water, so for a 1:1 sugar water ratio, you’ll need:  

• 8 cups of water
• 9 cups of granulated sugar 

2:1 solution

This solution is used for feeding bees in winter or fall when natural nectar sources are scarce. The higher ratio of sugar to water provides the colony with more energy so they can survive the seasons. You need:

• Two parts of sugar to one part water

🐝 Important!

Always use granulated white sugar, as other types of sugar can ferment and harm the bees. Avoid using honey, as it can spread diseases within the colony. 

You also need to use fresh and clean water.

Steps to Make Sugar Water for Bees

1. Boil 1 part water 
2. Turn off the heat and stir in the sugar (the amount will depend on the solution you’re using)
3. Stir until dissolved
4. Let it cool to room temperature
5. Pour the sugar water solution into a Boardman entrance feeder and place it near the colony

Boardman Feeder

If you want to make the process of feeding the bees even easier, we suggest getting a Boardman Feeder. 

These bee feeders are easy to monitor, allowing you to check the sugar water levels without disturbing the bees. You can also remove them to refill them without using your protective gear. 

On top of this, they are also easy to clean and will last for years. All the products you see on our website have been tested on our farm to make sure we’re offering you the best products. 

Feeding sugar water to your bees is not only a great way to give them a boost of energy and help them thrive, but it also allows you to check on the health of your colony. 

With these simple steps, you’ll have happy and healthy bees in no time. Don’t forget to check our guide for beginner beekeepers to learn more about how to start and the bee equipment you’ll need.

Buzz off hunger and give your bees a sweet treat! 🐝