Establish Baseline Mite Counts All Hives
2 hoursRun alcohol wash on every hive; record mites per 100 bees and map hot colonies exceeding seasonal threshold.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for varroa treatment plan — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Run alcohol wash on every hive; record mites per 100 bees and map hot colonies exceeding seasonal threshold.
Choose oxalic acid, formic pro, Apivar, or thymol based on temperature, honey status, and prior rotation history.
Apply per label directions; retest mite count 2–3 weeks post-treatment to confirm knockdown below 1 per 100 bees.
Schedule monthly counts April–October plus mandatory fall treatment window; set phone reminders for each test date.
Compare alcohol wash results against seasonal action thresholds to decide when treatment is mandatory.
Log treatment products, dates, and post-treatment mite counts for rotation compliance and state records.
Schedule post-treatment efficacy tests at label-specified intervals after application.
Track treatment exposure duration for formic acid strips and Apivar strip removal dates.
Product selection guide for common scenarios.
| Product | Temp Range | Honey Supers On? |
|---|---|---|
| Oxalic acid dribble | Any — broodless best | Remove supers |
| Formic Pro | 50–85°F | Remove supers |
| Apivar strips | Above 50°F | Remove supers |
| Thymol (Apiguard) | 60–105°F | Remove supers |
Prophylactic treatment without counts wastes money and builds resistance — always test first.
Fall mite load determines winter survival — never skip August count and treatment.
Off-label chemical use is illegal and contaminates wax — follow product label exactly.