Bees are all over knotweed and ivy (where it started blooming). Some visiting HB judging by the small number of ghost bees in the hives. Interestingly, did not see many going for the HB this year, although plenty around. Oh yeah, and noticed a few dandelions as well...
I had similar thoughts when started beekeeping 2-3 years ago. In my opinion better to save up money and save yourself the trouble. At the end I bought a Vevor 3 frame electric extractor. Was around £175 in the sales last year. Worth every penny.
Still plenty of Hawthorn around. Whitebeam and ash also blooming. Seen the first bramble flowers today with honeybees on it. Lime is about to start blooming soon.
We might not get a june gap at all.