If you haven't added some extra food yet to your hives by adding a candy board you may wanna try this! I have seen a few recipes out there but this one is simple and easy and does NOT require a candy thermometer. Ingredients needed:
2 cups of water
2 tablespoons of vinegar
10 pounds of sugar
First bring the water and vinegar to a boil
Add 5 pounds of sugar
Bring all to a boil
Add the second 5 pounds of sugar
Bring to a boil again and let boil for 5 min
Pour into your mold or frame (I use 2 aluminum lasagna pans I purchased at the dollar store)
It will set up right away but I let mine harden overnight
this amount is fine for 1 hive so repeat as necessary.
I have a little box i use to cover mine on top of the hive. Basically just a 4 inch high box the same as the rest of the hive.
Good Luck... keep those lady's alive over the winter and keep your costs down!