Scientific Beekeeping: Beekeepers Take On Fermentation

These two young beekeepers are turning their curiosity into science this year. For the Northeast Florida Regional Science and Engineering Fair, they’re studying a problem every Florida beekeeper knows: sugar syrup ferments fast in our heat — especially during the summer dearth, when bees need extra help with food.

Their project tests sugar syrup mixed with lemon juice, citric acid, and vinegar at different pH levels to see which slows fermentation the most. Then they’ll take the winning formula and test it again with essential oils to find out what keeps syrup fresh the longest.

They’re excited to share their results with the beekeeping community — and we can’t wait to post updates as their experiment unfolds. Our hive is buzzing with science this season!