Honey Harvest Estimator

Generate customized harvest projections based on your colony strength, age, and regional conditions

Planning extraction equipment, ordering jars, and setting realistic expectations all depend on knowing roughly how much honey your colonies will produce. But that number varies wildly based on colony strength, whether you're working with first-year packages or established hives, and what climate zone you're operating in. A strong colony in North Dakota's clover-heavy prairies might produce 150 pounds while an identical setup in the Arizona desert struggles to hit 30.

This calculator uses regional baseline yields, adjusted for colony age and current strength, to estimate harvestable surplus honey. The numbers account for the 40-90 pounds bees need to overwinter (varying by climate), leaving you with what's actually available for extraction. Enter your operation details below to see projected yields, required storage capacity, and appropriate extraction equipment for your harvest size.

Colony Parameters

120
Pounds of Harvestable Honey
From 2 hives
60
Pounds per Hive
12
5-Gallon Buckets
160
12oz Jars

Expected Range

Based on average colony strength and climate conditions, expect 50-70 lbs per hive (100-140 lbs total). Actual yields vary significantly by weather, forage availability, and management practices.

Factors Affecting Yield

  • Weather patterns during nectar flow
  • Available forage within 3-mile radius
  • Swarm prevention success
  • Colony health and pest management
  • Timing of honey super addition
  • Spring buildup strength

Regional Considerations

  • Typical nectar flow timing varies by region
  • Winter honey reserves: 40-90 lbs depending on climate
  • Some regions support 2 honey flows per year
  • Northern Plains known for highest yields

Equipment Planning

  • For your estimated harvest, consider appropriate extraction equipment
  • Small harvests (under 50 lbs): crush and strain
  • Medium harvests (50-150 lbs): manual extractor
  • Large harvests (150+ lbs): electric extractor recommended
Important: These are general estimates based on average conditions. Actual honey production varies significantly year-to-year based on weather, local forage, swarm management, and colony health. First-year colonies typically produce little to no surplus honey. Always ensure bees have adequate stores (40-90 lbs depending on climate) before harvesting surplus honey. Consult local beekeepers for region-specific expectations.