THE HONEY PROSPECTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 19235, 26 January 1926, Page 14

THE HONEY PROSPECTS.

A FINE SPELL NEEDED. WARNING AGAINST MOISTURE. (jiT TELEGRAPH. —OWN CORRESPONDENT.] HAMILTON. Monday. A review of the prospects of the honey producers' season was given by Mr. T. S. Winter, apiary instructor of the South Auckland district. Mr. Winter said that the South Auckland district extended from Mercer to Owhango, on the Main Trunk line, and produced more honey than any other district in New Zealand. Referring to the prospects for the season Mr. Winter said they were not bright at present. Although a considerable quantity of honey had already bDen harvested the total of the final cutput was still uncertain, in view of the exceptionally wet and windy weather i'hat had been experienced. There was still time for a good yield, provided warm and dry weather occurred during tho next few weeks. To avoid loss apiarists are advised by Mr. Winter not to expose their honey during wet weather. About 50 tons of honey is rejected by tho Government each year owing to excessive moisture. Producers should extract honey only from combs that had been well sealed bv the bees. Only dry appliances should bo used. A high standard was set in New Zealand, but a fault that affected quality and had always to be guarded against was excessive moisture. Advice pn how to maintain a high standard would always bo readily given by officers of the department.