Bee-Pro Pollen Substitute Question

[Sean Kelly]

When I bought my hive kit from Mannlake the other day, I had them add a canister of Bee-Pro just cause it sounded like the right thing to do.  Of course, I'm brand new at this and have no idea what I'm doing, plus it was only $5...

So my question is, should I use this stuff with my new package of bees when they get here?  Or is this something I should use later on?  I dont know, it was only $5.  Not a big loss if I don't use it.  I keep hearing about people making patties to help accelerate brood production.  Thought it wouldn't hurt anyway.  :-)

Thoughts?  Comments?

Sean

[Michael Bush]

>So my question is, should I use this stuff with my new package of bees when they get here?

No.  It will be a total waste, they will have real pollen coming in and will have no interest in pollen substitute.

> Or is this something I should use later on?

Put it in the freezer, make some patties late next winter and put them in the hives about February.

[thegolfpsycho]

I agree with MB.  The bees have been bringing in pollen on any flying day around here for a few weeks.  Another week or two, minor flows like dandylion and early fruit, and the colonys will be into their power curve. They pretty much ignore any "help" you give them at that time.  Pollen subs are to spur early developement.  Mid Feb works pretty well here

[Sean Kelly]

Cool, thanks guys!  Like I said, not much of a waste.  It was only five bucks.  So it will keep just fine until I'm ready to use it?

Thanks again, everyone has been such an awesome help!!!

Sean

[Michael Bush]

>So it will keep just fine until I'm ready to use it?

It will keep better in the freezer.

[Sean Kelly]

Right on.  It came in the mail yesterday and I stuck it in the freezer.  You ever smell that stuff?  Smells strangely kind of like Chocolate Ovaltine!  Was almost tempted to mix a little in some milk and give it a try!  lolololol

Sean