There is little I can add to Mike's and Bill's comments. But I can reinforce both. IMO, 'aster' is the culprit on granulation and I don't think goldenrod is any quicker to granulate than most of our 'wildflower' nectars. I know of two reasonably large beekeepers (300-500 hives) in REAL north climates who each overwinter in single deeps, by feeding an average of 60 lbs of syrup per hive. AFTER they are reduced to singles. Both claim losses of less than 5%, and used to claim losses of less than 1% (before mites). Both barrel feed to get the syrup into the hives...but there are not many places on Long Island where barrel feeding would be practical! All that said...does goldenrod produce nectar in your area? Where it is on lime soil, goldenrod seems to always produce nectar. The more acid the soil, the less reliable is goldenrod production. Lloyd Lloyd Spear, Owner Ross Rounds, Inc. Manufacturers of Ross Rounds Comb Honey Equipment, Sundance Pollen Traps and Custom Printer of Sundance Labels. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::