68 BEEKEEPING IN THE SOUTH 



parts of the state frequently yields surplus honey, where colonies 

 are in shape to gather it beginning early in the year. 



Texas tropical honey plants are fewer. Mesquite is probably 

 the most important and is a tree varying in size up to fifteen feet 

 in height, which may bloom as many as three times a year. Cat- 

 claw and huajilla are other important nectar sources coming 

 early in the year. Further west alfalfa is becoming quite im- 

 portant, where a greater water supply is available. (See Chapter 

 on Honey Plants.) 



