I have been busy cleaning the extracting equipment and installing apistan strips so I haven't been able to check my e-mail lately.  I am just now reading the messages about basswood honey.

I keep several yards in the basswood stands around here (northern MN), just for the honey.  These trees seem to like sandy, well-drained soil and grow in large clumps of four to seven.  The blooming period can be anywhere from four to fifteen days.  The earliest bloom I can remember was last year when it started on July 4th.  This year the bloom began on July 22 and only went 7 days. Although each and every tree may not bloom every year, in these areas there are enough trees that there is always a bloom.

While in bloom the trees are filled with bees and insects of all kinds.  The roar sounds like a swarm.  During the bloom a strong hive will fill a medium super in just a few days.  

Unfortunately, this is the last big bloom in these areas.  At the end of bloom the bees have to be moved immediately to another more productive area. Usually I find a clover location.

Before moving the hives I pull the honey.  Not only to make the hives lighter, but because basswood honey is fabulous!  Almost water white, this honey has a minty taste that is very unusual.  

I can sell basswood honey at the local Farmers Market for a very good price ($3.00 per pound) and basswood comb honey for $5.00.  

We consider basswood to be a very important nectar source for our operation.  I would advise you to develop this source and enjoy the unique honey.

Mark in Minnesota