Sulfur strips

Burn sulfur strips inside airtight stacks of stored supers and hive bodies to fumigate against small hive beetles and wax moths. The sulfur dioxide gas released during combustion penetrates combs and kills all pest life stages present in the equipment.

Why It Works

Sulfur dioxide is toxic to insects at relatively low concentrations. When burned in a sealed stack, the gas fills all gaps and comb cells, reaching eggs and larvae hidden within the wax. This method handles large volumes of equipment more efficiently than freezing.

Tips

• Stack supers on a solid base, place the lit sulfur strip on a metal tray inside the stack, and seal all gaps with tape
• Perform fumigation outdoors or in a well-ventilated shed, as sulfur dioxide is harmful to humans and animals
• Air out equipment thoroughly for at least 24 hours before placing it on colonies
• Repeat fumigation every 4-6 weeks if equipment remains in long-term storage
• Follow all manufacturer safety instructions and wear appropriate respiratory protection