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a kennedy

(34,420 posts)
Sun Aug 24, 2025, 07:14 PM Aug 24

How much of a boil should be ok when boiling my hummer syrup??

I do use 1 cup granulated sugar and 4 cups of water and let it boil. I do just turn it off once it just starts rolling. Is that enough time?? Or should I let it go longer?? Thanks. 🤷🏼‍♀️

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How much of a boil should be ok when boiling my hummer syrup?? (Original Post) a kennedy Aug 24 OP
Once it is boiling, that is good enough. Just turn it off and cover it while it cools. RockRaven Aug 24 #1
Whew, thanks, didn't really ever hear how long to boil, so I am doing it right. a kennedy Aug 24 #2
Boil hummingbird mixture for one minute. Picturelady Aug 24 #3
Separate SuzyandPuffpuff Aug 24 #4
The main reason for boiling water for hummingbirds is to clear the water... Enter stage left Aug 24 #5
Hummingbirds are migrating right now, Callalily Aug 25 #6

RockRaven

(18,012 posts)
1. Once it is boiling, that is good enough. Just turn it off and cover it while it cools.
Sun Aug 24, 2025, 07:32 PM
Aug 24

You want to avoid over-boiling to avoid excessive evaporation which will make it more concentrated than intended.

Picturelady

(4 posts)
3. Boil hummingbird mixture for one minute.
Sun Aug 24, 2025, 07:50 PM
Aug 24

Boil one minute. Thanks for asking, and for using the correct ratio. Be sure to keep the feeder free of mold, but don't use bleach. Use a bottle brush and then a small brush for the holes, maybe soak in white vinegar if it's real bad.
I'm not assuming that you don't know this, just sharing general info.

SuzyandPuffpuff

(288 posts)
4. Separate
Sun Aug 24, 2025, 08:21 PM
Aug 24

Add boiling water to the sugar. Makes better blend and no risk of too much heat burning the sugar.

Enter stage left

(4,107 posts)
5. The main reason for boiling water for hummingbirds is to clear the water...
Sun Aug 24, 2025, 09:27 PM
Aug 24

Of impurities and the chlorine we use to protect ourselves.

They recommend a good boil of 1-2 minutes.

You're using the correct ratio. Stronger ratios dehydrate the birds.

Thanks for helping our flying jeweled friends.

Callalily

(15,242 posts)
6. Hummingbirds are migrating right now,
Mon Aug 25, 2025, 07:37 AM
Aug 25

so you'll see more activity than usual at your feeders! I never get tired watching them.

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