Hello all
 
A couple of points to consider relative to the ongoing discussion on
uncapped honey.
 
Wax glands are stimulated to activity by incoming nectar (or by anything
that simulates a nectar flow). These glands do not function at the will
of the bees. As the nectar flow winds down, the bees are not stimulated
to secrete wax.  At some point they stop. Further, it is known that there
are physiological changes in the bees as they go into winter. Perhaps
that is starting to come into the picture here too.
 
Cappings are definitely some protection but they are permeable to moisture.
 
Without question, a certain amount of ripe (and usable) honey may remain
uncapped at the end of the season. Test it with a refractometer.
 
Dick Bonney   [log in to unmask]