.png)
From Hive to Table
- matthew jackson
- May 23
- 2 min read
How Spring Honey Begins
As the days grow longer and the first wildflowers bloom across Wisconsin, our bees at Waterford Bee Company are hard at work. May marks the beginning of a brand-new season in the hive—a time of rapid growth, increased foraging, and the first golden drips of early season honey. But how exactly does that honey make its way from our hives to your kitchen table?
Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening in the apiary this time of year and how spring’s bounty influences some of our favorite early-season products.
🐝 The Spring Build-Up: What’s Happening in the Hive
After surviving Wisconsin’s long winter, honeybee colonies begin to rebound in early spring. By May, the queen is laying eggs at full speed, and workers are out foraging for pollen and nectar from dandelions, fruit tree blossoms, and the first wave of wildflowers.
This early-season nectar is lighter and more delicate in flavor than late-summer honey. Bees use it to feed their growing brood and begin filling new combs with fresh honey. For beekeepers, this is an exciting but delicate time—monitoring hive health, preventing swarms, and adding space for expanding colonies is critical.
🌸 What Makes Spring Honey Unique?
Spring honey, especially from wildflowers, tends to have a bright, floral taste that reflects the freshness of early blooms. It’s often lighter in color and texture than the robust, amber tones of late-summer honey.
At Waterford Bee Company, we bottle this early harvest as our Wildflower Honey, a true taste of Wisconsin spring. It’s perfect drizzled on yogurt, stirred into tea, or enjoyed by the spoonful.
🍓 Inspired by the Season: Springtime Flavors in the Kitchen
The freshness of spring doesn’t stop at the honey jar. This time of year, we’re also inspired by the return of vibrant, juicy berries—especially strawberries and rhubarb, which pair beautifully with the brightness of spring honey.
Here are a few of our favorite early-season creations, perfect for Mother’s Day brunches, backyard picnics, or simply celebrating the season:
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam – Sweet, tart, and balanced with just a touch of honey. Incredible on toast, biscuits, or spooned over vanilla ice cream.
Strawberry Jam – A classic made with ripe, local berries and sweetened with our signature honey for a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Strawberry Jalapeño Jam – A sweet-and-spicy favorite that pairs beautifully with soft cheeses, grilled meats, or your favorite breakfast sandwich.
🌱 Supporting the Cycle
When you buy honey and bee-based products from Waterford Bee Company, you're supporting a full-circle system that begins in the hive and ends at your table. Your purchase helps us continue sustainable, ethical beekeeping practices and invest in pollinator health right here in Wisconsin.
Spring is a season of renewal, sweetness, and potential. We’re so grateful to share its bounty with you—one jar at a time.
Stay tuned as the season progresses—we’ll be sharing updates from the hives, behind-the-scenes looks at honey harvests, and new product releases all summer long.