Another feeding question

[BuzzyBee]

When you are feeding, do you add new syrup to old? Throw out the old and add new or let the bees drink it dry and then add? Just wondering what the effect it has on fermentation when adding new syrup to week old syrup. I'm using just plain 1:1 syrup and they are taking about a week to go through a little less than a quart.

Thanks

Buzzy

[BEES4U]

Change the ratio to two parts sugar to one part water. (2:1)
The syrup needs to be clean!
You could use a 10% bleach solution to kill the fermentation microbes. (9 parts water to one part bleach.
If the old syrup is not fermented you can add the granulated sugar to it so it's attractive to the bees.
2:1 syrup resists fermentation.:)
Your bees should empty the feeder in about 2-4 days depending on their strength. temperature, and type of feeder.
Regards,
Ernie Lucas Apiaries

[BuzzyBee]

Thanks for the reply Ernie,

10% bleach? I would think this would be a little high. I'm new but don't want to be feeding potentially toxic syrup. Not sure what the toxic level of bleach would be to bees. Maybe it wouldn't be as it seems bees like pool water. :)

The other thing is I'm trying to get the bees to draw out frames and I thought 2:1 syrup was best for building winter stores and 1:1 was to stimulate wax production and brood. :confused:

Syrup was clean when I made it. Feeding in boardman feeders, so don't think much wild yeast could get in easily, but I don't know.

I'm very new. One new package and one swarm. There are good nectar sources around here which is why I think they are taking the syrup rather slowly. Not questioning your expertise or advise, but just checking. :)

Don't want the bees to drink fermented syrup though. You know how they get when they have too much. Weaving and crashing into each other, spending time with undesirable bugs, bringing home slacker drones. :D

Thanks!