There are some very varying opinions on what to feed the bees. One instructor of mine said that he always, always fed the bees 2:1 sugar syrup, meaning 2 parts sugar to 1 part water. Never anything different.
Another instructor (the Asian commercial beekeeper) whom I took Level 1 and 2 beekeeping with, contends that in the spring to feed 1:1 sugar syrup when feeding. The idea behind the 1:1 in the spring is that it simulates the nectar flow, it makes the bees basically think there is a nectar flow going on and it stimulates the bees to get the queen going faster. I presume that this is pretty correct, I trust my instructor, he has taught many a good lesson and was always there when I needed some pretty simple questions answered when I was beginning in apiculture. I was a lucky woman to have him as my guide and I appreciate him more than he would ever know.
2:1 sugar syrup is hard to dissolve. Known fact. But, we were taught to have the sugar syrup solution almost to a boil, I say almost, that allows the sugar to remain in a colloidal state and it does not granulate.
Also, the syrup should not go bad, unless it is held for a long time. When feeding the bees, it is better to give them smaller amounts, frequently, rather than larger amounts, less frequently. This means a little more work for the beekeeper, but it is better in many ways.
I have had 2:1 sugar syrup granulate in the hive, but that was because I made the mistake of giving the bees too much and it granulated before they could use it all up. That was a mistake, I know that. I also know that I didn't have the sugar syrup hot enough to keep in a liquid form, another mistake.
These are only my opinions. There is an old saying, ask 10 beekeepers how to do something and you will get 10 different answers. :-D BUT....that's my story and I'm stickin' to it. Have this wonderful day, a beautiful life to go with it, and love the life we're livin'. Cindi