I am a big fan of drawing foundation comb while feeding, so wanted to
continue this thread:

> It will take approx. 5 gallons of honey/syrup (60lbs) to draw
> foundation in a deep hive body.

Perhaps true, but I would not want to give the impression that foundation
can be drawn by feeding 5 gallons, and would also not want to give the
impression that it takes 5 gallons of feed!

For bees to draw comb properly, it takes lots of bees the right age and warm
weather (particularly nights), and sufficient nectar or feed (or both).  No
matter how much one feeds, a full deep will not be drawn properly in cool or
cold weather.  The best conditions are summer weather during a flow, with
feed.  I have drawn comb in hundreds of deeps during late spring and summer,
and find it 'usually' takes 2 gallons of feed.  Sometimes 1 gallon and
sometimes 3 gallons, but most often two.

> 4.)  The cost of drawing foundation to comb (60lbs x $1.25US)or
> $75.00 US

This could be pretty misleading.  I am drawing comb now, using corn syrup
that I pay $.18 a pound for, instead of the $1.25 quoted.  Hobbyists without
access to corn syrup should be able to use sugar solution which, when
diluted, should not cost more than $.25 a pound...and that is pretty high.
Using 3 gallons, the high end of my experience, that is 36 pounds times $.25
a pound, or $9.  A long way from $75.

Draw your foundation under feed during the summer...until and unless you
have enough hives and experience to dispense with the feed!

Lloyd
Lloyd Spear, Owner Ross Rounds, Inc.
Manufacturers of Ross Rounds Comb
Honey Equipment, Sundance Pollen Traps
and Custom Printer of Sundance Labels.

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