As the beekeeping season winds down, beekeepers often turn their attention to a critical aspect of colony health: late-season varroa mite treatment. Varroa mites can devastate honeybee colonies if left unchecked, so it’s crucial to choose the right treatment method for the late season. In this blog post, we’ll explore three popular options: Apiguard, Apivar, and Formic Pro, all available from Dadant and Sons.
Apiguard™
Active Ingredient: Thymol Temperature Range: 60-100°F Length of Treatment: 28 days Supers On or Off: Off
Apiguard™ is a trusted late-season varroa mite treatment that utilizes thymol, a natural compound found in thyme. This treatment is most effective in temperatures between 70-85°F when bees are not in a constant cluster. It’s important to remove supers during treatment for optimal results. Apiguard™ offers an eco-friendly approach to mite control, making it a preferred choice for many beekeepers.
Apivar™
Active Ingredient: Amitraz Temperature Range: n/a Length of Treatment: 42 – 56 days Supers On or Off: Off
Apivar™ is another effective late-season varroa mite treatment. It uses amitraz as its active ingredient, which should be installed early enough in the fall. This timing ensures that the strips can be removed before winter weather makes hive access challenging. Apivar™ is known for its simplicity and effectiveness in controlling varroa mite infestations.
Formic Pro™
Active Ingredient: Formic acid Temperature Range: 50-85°F Length of Treatment: 14 or 20 days Supers On or Off: On
Formic Pro™ is a powerful late-season varroa mite treatment that uses formic acid. Unlike some other treatments, it can be applied with supers on the hive. This makes it an excellent choice for beekeepers looking to address varroa mites while maintaining honey production. Formic Pro™ is most effective when used earlier in the fall, ensuring your bees go into winter with lower mite levels.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Selecting the appropriate late-season varroa mite treatment depends on various factors, including your hive’s specific conditions, local climate, and personal preferences. It’s essential to monitor mite levels and plan your treatment accordingly to maximize its effectiveness.
Remember that late-season varroa mite treatment is a critical component of beekeeping, ensuring the health and survival of your honeybee colonies through the winter. Dadant and Sons offer these reliable treatments to help you protect your bees and maintain strong, thriving hives. Be sure to follow the recommended application guidelines for each product and consult with experienced beekeepers or local experts if you have any questions or concerns.
Late-season varroa mite treatment is a must for responsible beekeepers. Apiguard, Apivar, and Formic Pro are all trusted options available from Dadant and Sons to help you address varroa mite infestations effectively. By choosing the right treatment and applying it correctly, you’ll contribute to the well-being of your honeybee colonies and ensure they enter winter in excellent condition.
Photo by Kat Smith: https://www.pexels.com/photo/yellow-bumblebee-gathering-pollen-close-up-photography-551622/