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FAQ / SpringSummerFallWinterGeneral Beekeeping
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) related to Beekeeping:

SpringSummerFallWinterGeneral Beekeeping

10 Common Questions About Treating for Varroa Mites

  1. What are the main treatments for varroa mites?
  • Formic acid (e.g., Formic Pro), oxalic acid vapor or dribble, Apivar (amitraz), and thymol-based (Apiguard).
  • Choose treatments based on temperature, brood presence, and mite load.
  • Rotate treatments to avoid resistance.
  1. When should I treat for varroa mites?
  • In late summer before winter bees are raised.
  • After honey harvest in fall is a common time.
  • Based on test results—when thresholds are exceeded.
  1. Can I treat with honey supers on the hive?
  • Some treatments like formic acid are approved with supers on.
  • Others, like Apivar or oxalic acid, require supers to be removed.
  • Always check product label instructions.
  1. Is it safe to use oxalic acid in a hive?
  • Yes, if used correctly with approved methods.
  • Oxalic acid is most effective when no brood is present.
  • Use protective gear and avoid overuse.
  1. Can I treat during winter?
  • Yes, oxalic acid dribble or vapor works best when broodless.
  • Winter treatments help start spring with low mite levels.
  • Avoid treatments that require heat or active foraging.
  1. What natural methods are available?
  • Drone brood removal to interrupt mite reproduction.
  • Sugar dusting to dislodge mites.
  • Breeding or selecting for mite-resistant queens (e.g., VSH).
  1. How do I know if a treatment is working?
  • Retest mites 7–14 days after treatment.
  • Observe bee behavior and colony strength.
  • Sticky boards can help monitor fall after treatment.
  1. Can I use the same treatment every year?
  • No, rotating treatments reduces resistance risk.
  • Follow integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
  • Observe how your colony responds to different options.
  1. What are signs my bees are suffering from mites?
  • Deformed wings (DWV), spotty brood, and declining population.
  • Presence of mites on adult bees or larvae.
  • Excessive mite drop or poor overwintering survival.
  1. How do I choose the right treatment?
  • Base it on season, temperature, and brood presence.
  • Consider the strength of the colony and nearby nectar flow.
  • Consult local beekeepers or extension resources for guidance.

10 Common Questions About Testing for Varroa Mites

  1. How do I test for varroa mites in my hive?
  • Use the alcohol wash method for an accurate count.
  • Try the powdered sugar roll for a non-lethal test.
  • Use sticky boards under screened bottom boards as a passive method.
  1. When should I test for varroa mites?
  • At least once per month during the active season.
  • Before and after treatment to measure effectiveness.
  • During spring buildup, mid-summer, and early fall.
  1. What is the threshold level that requires treatment?
  • Generally, 3% (3 mites per 100 bees) or higher needs treatment.
  • Lower thresholds may be used in late summer/fall.
  • Any spike in mite counts should prompt immediate action.
  1. How do I collect bees for mite testing?
  • From the brood nest to get nurse bees, which carry more mites.
  • Use a bee sample of around 300 bees (~½ cup).
  • Avoid collecting bees from honey supers or outer frames.
  1. Do I need to test every hive?
  • Ideally yes, as mite loads vary between colonies.
  • Testing a few representative hives can work for large apiaries.
  • Monitor both strong and weak colonies for comparison.
  1. Is mite testing harmful to the bees?
  • Alcohol wash kills the sample bees.
  • Sugar roll is non-lethal and preferred by some beekeepers.
  • Sticky boards are non-invasive and kill no bees.
  1. Can I test during cold weather?
  • Mite testing is best in temperatures above 60°F.
  • Cold can clump bees, affecting sample accuracy.
  • Test in warm, dry conditions for best results.
  1. Should I test after treating?
  • Yes, always test again to verify treatment effectiveness.
  • It helps guide follow-up decisions and track resistance.
  • Essential to confirm mite load is under control.
  1. Can I rely on visual inspections instead of testing?
  • No, visible mites usually indicate a serious infestation.
  • Testing is the only way to quantify mite loads.
  • Visual cues should trigger testing, not replace it.
  1. How do I track mite test results over time?
  • Use a hive inspection log or spreadsheet.
  • Graph results to see trends and treatment effectiveness.
  • Also there are Apps that can help with data logging.