How To

How to Harvest Honey

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(19 Ratings)

Honey in frames is ready to be harvested when bees have capped it with a layer of wax.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Bee Brushes
  • Bee Escapes
  • Bee Smokers
  • Hive Tools
  • Honey Extractors
  • Uncapping Knives
  • Bee Veils
  • Cloth
  • Cloth
  • Jars And Lids
  • Large Metal Pan
  • Strainers
  • Address Labels
  • Matches
  • Matches
  • Strainers

    Uncapping the Comb

  1. Step 1

    Have all equipment ready and in easy reach.

  2. Step 2

    Remove layer of wax over top of cells, or "cappings."

  3. Step 3

    Save the cappings in a large pan or tub.

  4. Step 4

    Place uncapped frames of comb and honey into an extractor.

  5. Step 5

    Spin frames using the handle or, if the extractor is electric, simply let the machine spin the frames.

  6. Step 6

    Remove frames.

  7. Step 7

    Repeat until all frames are empty of honey.

  8. Packaging the Honey

  9. Step 1

    Have jars and labels ready.

  10. Step 2

    Pour honey into each jar using the spout on the side of the extractor.

  11. Step 3

    Take a warm, damp cloth and wipe each jar, including the mouth.

  12. Step 4

    Screw jar lid on tightly.

  13. Step 5

    Place your personal label on the jar.

  14. Step 6

    Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

  15. Removing the Super

  16. Step 1

    Get all bee equipment ready.

  17. Step 2

    Light smoker and smoke your clothing and the hive lightly. You will remove honey from the top super of the hive.

  18. Step 3

    Put a bee escape into the center hole in the inner cover. Place this cover under the super.

  19. Step 4

    Place the outer cover back over the super.

  20. Step 5

    Wait 24 hours for the bees to go down into the next super.

  21. Step 6

    Again, get ready to remove the super.

  22. Step 7

    Remove the super holding the honey you plan to harvest.

  23. Step 8

    Remove each frame and examine it for bees while you're still outdoors.

  24. Step 9

    Brush any remaining bees from the frame.

Tips & Warnings
  • Smoke the hive just lightly. Smoke can affect the flavor of honey.

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