Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just starting your sweet adventure into the world of honey, one crucial aspect you need to pay attention to is the moisture content of your honey. Let’s dive into why this matters and how to ensure that you’re harvesting honey at just the right time.

What’s the Big Deal About Moisture Content?

The moisture content of honey plays a pivotal role in determining its quality and shelf life. Ideally, the moisture content of harvested honey should be around 16-18%. If it’s too high, there’s a risk of fermentation, which can spoil that glorious nectar and turn it into something unappetizing. A moisture content below 17% is perfect, ensuring that your honey stays stable and delicious.

The point at which fermentation occurs can vary from one honey batch to the next.  A critical factor is how much yeast is present.  The lower the moisture the less likely fermentation will occur.  Honey below 17% moisture is highly unlikely to ferment. Honey 18% moisture can ferment if the yeast count is high enough. Always aim for the lowest moisture content you can get.  There are methods of drying honey out a bit before extraction.  Any number of YouTube videos can help you with this.  You should also note that the drier the honey is the more susceptible it is to crystallization.

Why It Matters for Beekeepers

As a beekeeper, your goal is to harvest honey that not only tastes fantastic but also has a long shelf life. When you harvest at the right moisture level, you minimize the risk of fermentation and other spoilage issues.

The Sweet Spot: When to Harvest

So how do you know when honey is ready for harvesting?

Here are some handy tips:

• Observe Your Bees – Watch how your bees are working. If you notice them capping cells with wax, that’s a pretty good indicator that the honey inside is likely at the right moisture content. Bees cap the honey as a sign that it’s stable and ready to store.
• Use a Refractometer – For a more precise measure, investing in a refractometer can be a game changer. This handy tool gives you an exact reading of the moisture content in your honey, allowing you to make informed decisions about when to harvest. It is important to follow the calibration instructions for your refractometer prior to using it.
• Shake Test – Some beekeepers claim that if you can shake a frame and the nectar is too thick to come out, then the honey is ready for harvesting.  While not a 100% reliable test to make a final decision, it can be used as a first pass test to see if honey is ready to be tested with your refractometer.

A word of caution:

During periods of high environmental moisture—whether due to sustained humidity or repeated rainfall—bees may struggle to properly cap honey. In some cases, prolonged exposure to moisture has even caused honey to ferment while still in the frame. Additionally, even capped honey can exceed 18% moisture under these conditions.  See this photo on our Beekeeper Photos age for an example of honey fermenting while still in a frame.

For these reasons, it’s always wise to spot-check your frames with a refractometer before making a final extraction decision.

Final Thoughts

Harvesting honey is an art and a science, and getting the moisture content just right can make all the difference in the quality of your product. So next time you’re out in the apiary, keep a close eye on those moisture levels! Your hard work and attention to detail will be rewarded with beautiful, high-quality honey that rivals anything you could buy in a store. Happy beekeeping, everyone! Keep those hives buzzing and that honey flowing!