This is also my first year. The colony seems to be drawing comb and storing honey quite well considering the cool weather we have had here in Indianapolis. However, the work is not as extensive on the North end of the hive.
Once the bees started drawing the drone frames, there has been little connecting comb. I had to entice them by placing the drone frames closer to the center for a couple weeks. Now they are both on the outside.
It has been so difficult to find information on bloom cycles specific to Indiana. Hopefully, my gardener friend will be able to help. I provided her with a list of local honey plants with the bloom information I have found. She will verify the average bloom schedule here, and I will post the information. It may not be compiled in time to help us this year, but we'll be more aware next year.
Amy