Integrated pest management (IPM)

Apply integrated pest management (IPM) to reduce Varroa mite loads and disease pressure, two of the primary drivers of Colony Collapse Disorder. IPM combines cultural practices (drone comb trapping, screen bottom boards), biological controls (Varroa-sensitive hygiene stock), and targeted chemical treatments (oxalic acid, formic acid) used only when monitoring shows mite counts exceed threshold levels, typically 2-3 mites per 100 bees.

Why It Works

Rotating multiple control methods prevents mites from developing resistance to any single treatment. Threshold-based intervention avoids unnecessary chemical exposure that weakens bee immune systems, while keeping parasite loads below levels that trigger colony decline.

Tips

• Monitor mite levels monthly using alcohol wash or sugar shake methods
• Treat in late summer before winter bees are raised, when mite impact is greatest
• Rotate between oxalic acid and formic acid treatments across seasons
• Keep detailed records of mite counts and treatments to track trends over time