VarroMed by BeeVital: A Comprehensive Guide for Beekeepers

VarroMed by BeeVital is an innovative and highly effective treatment designed to combat Varroa destructor mites in honeybee colonies. As one of the most significant threats to bee health worldwide, Varroa mites can devastate colonies if left untreated. VarroMed offers a safe and practical solution, suitable for use throughout the year and even in the presence of brood. This article provides an in-depth look at VarroMed, its benefits, application methods, and best practices for ensuring the health and productivity of your hives.

What is VarroMed?

VarroMed is a ready-to-use liquid formulation designed to treat Varroa mites in honeybee colonies. It contains a unique blend of naturally occurring organic acids and essential oils, specifically:

• Formic Acid (5%): Known for its effectiveness in penetrating the capped brood, reaching mites that are otherwise protected.
• Oxalic Acid Dihydrate (3.2%): Effective against Varroa mites on adult bees and in the hive environment.

These ingredients work together to provide a comprehensive treatment that can be used during various stages of the beekeeping season.

Key Features and Benefits of VarroMed

1. All-Season Use:
   • One of the standout features of VarroMed is its flexibility. It can be applied during different seasons, including periods when brood is present, making it a versatile option for year-round Varroa management.
2. No Need to Remove Honey Supers:
   • VarroMed is safe to use even when honey supers are present, as it leaves no harmful residues in honey. This makes it an excellent choice for beekeepers who need to treat their hives during the honey flow without compromising the quality of their honey.
3. Simple Application:
   • VarroMed comes in a ready-to-use liquid form, eliminating the need for mixing or dilution. This simplifies the treatment process, allowing beekeepers to apply the product directly to the hive.
4. Efficacy Against Varroa Mites:
   • The combination of formic and oxalic acids in VarroMed targets both phoretic mites (those on adult bees) and mites within the brood, providing comprehensive control and reducing mite populations effectively.
5. Minimal Impact on Bees:
   • When applied according to the instructions, VarroMed is safe for bees and does not disrupt hive activity or harm the colony. Its natural ingredients also make it environmentally friendly.

How to Apply VarroMed

1. Application Timing:
   • VarroMed can be applied during various times of the year, depending on the level of infestation and the presence of brood. However, it is most effective when applied in spring or autumn when mite populations are lower, ensuring better control.
2. Dosage and Method:
   • The recommended dosage is based on the size of the colony:
     • Small Colonies (less than 10 frames): 15-30 ml per hive.
     • Medium to Large Colonies (more than 10 frames): 30-45 ml per hive.
   • Application Method: VarroMed should be dribbled evenly over the bees between the frames. This allows the treatment to reach mites on the bees and within the hive.
3. Frequency of Treatment:
   • VarroMed can be applied multiple times throughout the season as needed. For best results, it is recommended to perform at least two treatments with an interval of 6 days during periods of high mite infestation.
4. Temperature Considerations:
   • VarroMed is most effective when applied at temperatures between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Avoid applying the product during extreme temperatures, as this could reduce its efficacy or stress the bees.

Safety and Handling

1. Protective Gear:
   • When applying VarroMed, beekeepers should wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin contact with the acids. Although the product is safe for bees, it can be irritating to human skin and mucous membranes.
2. Storage:
   • VarroMed should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Ensure the bottle is tightly sealed when not in use to maintain its efficacy.
3. Environmental Impact:
   • The natural ingredients in VarroMed make it environmentally friendly, and its use does not pose significant risks to the surrounding environment or non-target organisms.

Conclusion

VarroMed by BeeVital is a powerful tool in the battle against Varroa mites, offering beekeepers a flexible, safe, and effective treatment option that can be used throughout the year. Its ability to target mites in both adult bees and brood, combined with the ease of application and lack of harmful residues in honey, makes it a preferred choice for many beekeepers. By following the recommended guidelines and best practices, beekeepers can use VarroMed to maintain healthy, thriving colonies and ensure the sustainability of their beekeeping operations.

Further reading

1. Manufacturer Information:
   • BeeVital GmbH. (n.d.). VarroMed: Varroa mite treatment solution. Retrieved from [BeeVital’s official website].
2. Scientific Research:
   • Aliano, N. P., & Ellis, M. D. (2005). The efficacy of formic acid and oxalic acid against Varroa destructor when applied in a glycerin solution to honey bee colonies. Journal of Apicultural Research, 44(3), 165-170. DOI: 10.1080/00218839.2005.11101169
3. Beekeeping Associations:
   • British Beekeepers Association. (2020). Guidelines on the use of VarroMed for Varroa control. Retrieved from [BBKA website].