I was hoping to get some advice on whether or not to get some pollen patties to feed my new hive. I installed the package a week ago and did my first inspection. The bees look like they are doing good but I worry about them not getting enough pollen to eat. With the drought like conditions here in Cental Texas they are not bringing in much, at least I didn't see much in the hive during my inspection.
If I should feed them pollen patties is it better to purchase some or make my own? I have seen some receipes that do not use actual pollen, which is better?
thanks for the help
Straycat
There is real pollen available now. They will have no interest in fake pollen.
I would imagine that placing pollen patties in Texas would invite SHB...if you wish to feed pollen in early spring for build up you may want to open feed dry pollen.
As Michael stated, you should have pollen coming in now so no reason to feed.
Scott
I have been feeding small amounts of pollen patties to my bees. Since I just started beekeeping and wanted to give them any bonus I could. I have not seen SHB yet, but I am sure that I will. The bees are not taking much pollen sub now because they are loaded with pollen coming in. And its pretty dry up in this part of Texas, we have some big fires going on up here right now.
I wouldn't want to use purchased pollen patties as I think that invites too many unknowns.
just my 2 cents
Save your patties for late winter next year.
looks like my bees dont like them, havent touched them