Most new colonies may not be mature enough the first year to harvest honey. The basic hive body must be at least 90% full of bees and a winter super drawn out and full before you can ethically make honey. Also when you use medications or pest control chemicals the harvesting of honey safely may not a possibility, given proper time frames. Follow any directions on the product as to when to take it out of the hive or a safe time barrier to safely apply supers to collect honey. It is possible under the most desirable conditions and a fast growing hive to make honey the first year but buy an experienced keeper. Their health and colony strength are the most important.
Most new colonies may not be mature enough the first year to harvest honey. The basic hive body must be at least 90% full of bees and a winter super drawn out and full before you can ethically make honey. Also when you use medications or pest control chemicals the harvesting of honey safely may not a possibility, given proper time frames. Follow any directions on the product as to when to take it out of the hive or a safe time barrier to safely apply supers to collect honey. It is possible under the most desirable conditions and a fast growing hive to make honey the first year but buy an experienced keeper. Their health and colony strength are the most important.