The Harvest Decision

Inspecting honey frames

"How do I know if my honey frame is ready to be extracted?" This is the most important question we receive this time of year.

Understanding Moisture

The easy answer is: if the frame is fully capped, it is ready. Honey bees only cap cells once the moisture level is below 18%. If you harvest "high moisture" honey, it will begin to ferment in your container, creating alcohol and a sour odor that will ruin your entire harvest.

During a summer dearth (when the nectar flow ends), bees will actually begin to eat their capped stores. An inexperienced beekeeper might think uncapped cells still need time to finish, when in reality, the bees are just hungry!

Refractometer vs. The Manual Test

A refractometer is the professional way to measure moisture. However, if you don't have one, you can use the Shake Test to gauge if the honey is stable enough for extraction.

Step-by-Step: The Shake Test

  1. Place a 2ft x 2ft piece of butcher paper on a flat surface near the hive.
  2. Inspect a frame of honey for open cells.
  3. Hold both side bars of the frame firmly.
  4. Position the frame over the butcher paper with open cells facing away from you.
  5. Quickly shake the frame one time toward the paper.

The Result

Inspect the paper for drops of honey:

  • ✔ 10 drops or less: Proceed with extraction.
  • ✖ More than 10 drops: Moisture is too high. Return the frame to the hive for further evaporation.

Need extraction supplies or a refractometer?

Visit the Shop