I don't know if I would worry that much about stimulating brood production by feeding syrup.  They would need some intake of pollen in addition.  If the weather is cold, the cluster formation will also keep them in check.  I was worried about mine so I fed them in December a few times just to be sure.  The hives were insulated and this helped keep the syrup warm.  I made the syrup as thick as I possibly could.  There was no moisture buildup and the bees could empty a deep frame feeder in less than a day.  I never had a problem with stimulating brood production as far as I could tell and they look just dandy.  The bees did all of this when the night were getting down to zero and then in the tens and twenties during the day.  I don't think I would have done it had it been much colder, or without insulation.

Josh



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