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Mon, 11 Sep 2000 18:06:15 -0500 |
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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
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