New bees (and Newbee) questions!

[Mabe]

I'm confused about the syrup mixing formulas for spring feeding. I've read all the posts I can find and I'm hearing mix 1:1 by volume? or by weight?

Nother question...

I picked up my package bees yesterday and have been spraying them with 1:1 (by volume) syrup. They're in my cool, dark garage and seem ok. How long can I hold them this way. I'd like to have a calm day to install and it's been mighty windy.

Last question (for now)...

I bought a hive top feeder (Beemax) and it isn't the same dimensions as the hive bodies but a bit smaller, nor does it fit down inside a box. Has anyone tried these? Should I just plop it on top and cover with inner and outer covers?

Thanks for the great forum!

[chemistbert]

Syrup for spring stimulation is 1:1 by however you want. Volume or weight doesn't matter much.

You can keep them a few days if you have to.

I cover my hive top feeder with plywood so robbers can't get in.

[Michael Bush]

>I'm confused about the syrup mixing formulas for spring feeding. I've read all the posts I can find and I'm hearing mix 1:1 by volume? or by weight?

As Chemistbert says, either is close enough for who it's for.

>I picked up my package bees yesterday and have been spraying them with 1:1 (by volume) syrup. They're in my cool, dark garage and seem ok. How long can I hold them this way. I'd like to have a calm day to install and it's been mighty windy.

Since the purpose is to feed them I might go for 2:1, but 1:1 will probably work.

Personally I would refill the feeder, myself. Just get the wood loose and the can ready to remove and knock the cluster down with a sharp rap and pull the can out and put the wood (or anything else) over the hole so they can't escape. Refill the can. Most have the plastic piece with a rag these days and you can pop out the plastic and refill through the hole. If not it's trickier to fill. Then knock them back to the bottom with a sharp rap again and put the can back in.

If they have enough to eat they can survive for a week or so, but it is stressful staying in the box and they will start building comb in there and you will continue to lose bees as time goes on.