Summer is in full swing, and beekeepers are in the midst of tending to their hives, ensuring the health and well-being of their beloved honeybee colonies. A significant aspect of this care is managing varroa mites, a formidable threat to honeybee populations. There are many popular treatments available, in this article we’ll delve into two potent summer treatments for varroa mites: Formic Pro and Oxalic Acid, both available from Dadant and Sons.
Formic Pro™: A Summer Savior
Active Ingredient: Formic acid Temperature Range: 50-85°F Length of Treatment: 14 or 20 days Supers On or Off: On
Formic Pro™, a treatment option using formic acid, is a valuable tool in the fight against varroa mites during the summer months. It is effective even with honey supers on, making it an excellent choice for beekeepers who want to maintain honey production while controlling mites. This treatment is most successful when used earlier in the summer, ensuring your bees enter the fall season with reduced mite levels. Formic Pro™ is renowned for its effectiveness and minimal impact on hive behavior.
Oxalic Acid: A Summer Standout
Active Ingredient: Oxalic acid Temperature Range: 50-85°F Length of Treatment: Single application Supers On or Off: On
Oxalic Acid, when used during the summer, offers an efficient means of managing varroa mites. It’s a particularly appealing choice for beekeepers looking for a single, well-timed treatment. Oxalic acid treatments can be applied with honey supers on the hive, allowing you to continue honey production while addressing mites. Proper timing is crucial for the effectiveness of this treatment, as it works best when bees are broodless or have minimal brood.
Choosing the Right Treatment
The choice between Formic Pro™ and Oxalic Acid depends on various factors, including your hive’s specific conditions, local climate, and beekeeping goals. Both treatments are effective in managing varroa mites during the summer months and have their advantages.
When deciding on a treatment, consider monitoring your hive’s mite levels regularly and consult with experienced beekeepers or local experts for guidance. Proper timing and application techniques are key to successful varroa mite management during the summer.
Dadant and Sons: Your Beekeeping Resource
Dadant and Sons are dedicated to supporting beekeepers with high-quality products and expert guidance. Whether you choose Formic Pro™ or Oxalic Acid, you can trust in the effectiveness of these treatments to help protect your honeybee colonies during the critical summer season.
Conclusion: Summer treatments for varroa mites are essential for maintaining healthy honeybee colonies. Formic Pro™ and Oxalic Acid are two reliable solutions that can be employed to safeguard your hives while maintaining honey production. By selecting the right treatment and applying it correctly, you’ll ensure the well-being of your honeybee colonies and contribute to their continued success through the summer months and beyond.
Photo by Faheem Anwar: https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-and-brown-bee-on-brown-stem-3814843/