how long to feed

[catfishbill]

hello folks,i would like to get some input on how long i should feed these swarms i have caught.i do not have any frames of honey to put in the hives so the sugar syrup is my only option.the clover is just now putting on heads and they are bringing in pollen.so any input would be helpful.thanks.bill

[BMAC]

Feed them 2-3 times or till they stop taking the feed.  You maybe entering your honey flow and they may not take any feed now.

[catfishbill]

thanks bmac.they are still taking it.i fed them this morning and they were glad to get it.been feeding about twice a week.

[pdmattox]

When feeding heavy you should inspect the frames atleast once a week to keep from getting honey bound.

[Michael Bush]

I would stop as soon as there is nectar flowing.  Gathering nectar is what bees do and it's what is best for them.  Too much will make them swarm.

http://www.bushfarms.com/beesfeeding.htm#when

[catfishbill]

thanks for the input.michael when i checked my last two swarms for queens today i noticed there was a lot of comb drawn out about five frames some with pollen in it and some were just liquid filled,no capped brood yet.but i just caught them last week.will they stop taking syrup when nectar flow starts.thanks bill

[Michael Bush]

>will they stop taking syrup when nectar flow starts

Sometimes.  Sometimes not.