The varroa destructor mite has become one of the most impactful challenges in beekeeping. They feed on larva and adult bees’ fat, weakening them and shortening their lifespan. Varroa mites cause several damaging diseases and if out of control, they will cause an entire colony of bees to collapse.
Reproducing 12x over three months, varroa can infest a bee colony very quickly if left untreated. 3% of bees infested with varroa is considered the threshold, requiring intervention. There are several methods of dealing with these pests, including physical removal using drone frames, organic treatments, and synthetic treatments. At JT’s Honeybees & Blooms, we only use organic treatments & drone removal methods. Two of the most effective compounds that I use are oxalic acid and formic acid. As newly approved (organic) treatments emerge, I will run trials with them to determine if the work for my hives. For beginning beekeepers, I recommend reviewing information on Dadant & Son’s or Mann Lake’s websites to further educate yourself about treatment options. Sustainable Beekeepers Guild of Michigan is conducting amazing research regarding varroa, resistant breeding and treatment free beekeeping.
