Protecting bees from pests is one of the main tasks of a beekeeper. Various preparations are used to treat mites; the effectiveness of formic acid for bees has been proven in practice. Let's look at the composition and release form of the product, when it is used, and how to use the acid according to the instructions. How to prepare the solution correctly, in what concentration, how to process it correctly.
Composition and form of release of formic acid
Formic acid is a clear liquid with a pungent odor. To treat apiaries, use the substance at a concentration of 85% in the form of a gel.Sold in 50 ml bottles. The drug has an acaricidal effect and is directed against adult Varroa jacobsoni and Acarapis woodi.
In what cases is it used?
It is not addictive to ticks, so it can be used repeatedly. It is used in beekeeping to prevent the appearance of parasites and treat bees from those that have already appeared. To achieve the effect, you need to treat all families that are in the apiary at the same time. The first treatment against ticks should be done in the spring, the second - when the last honey has been pumped out.
Instructions for use
As with other drugs, formic acid must be dosed correctly and treated at the appropriate time. Any deviation from the rules will result in the product not having the desired effect.
Processing time and frequency
Repeated processing is carried out in the fall, after the completion of pumping out honey, so that the bees go into the winter healthy. For treatment, in case of severe mite infestation, it is necessary to carry out two treatments in a row with a break of a week. All treatments must be carried out at a temperature of 10 to 25 °C; if it is colder, the effectiveness of the treatment will be reduced.
Preparation of the solution
The acid is used as follows: pour it onto cardboard strips 3-5 mm thick, put them in ordinary plastic bags 30 by 20 cm, 2-3 pieces each. For each package use 30-50 ml of acid. After the substance is absorbed into the cardboard, the bag must be closed. Make 1-3 holes in it with a diameter of 1.5 cm. The number of holes must be calculated depending on the number of bees in the family. The more insects there are in a family, the more holes need to be left.
The second method: pour 30-50 ml of acid into small bottles, place gauze wicks in the necks according to the diameter of the neck. The length should exceed the height of the bottle by 3-5 cm. The acid rises up the wick, its end is on the outside.
The acid can be diluted with water and poured into ordinary lids. Pour 30 ml of solution into each and cover with a piece of cardboard.
Processing order
Bees should be treated with acid when the hives are well ventilated. The vapors of the substance should be well distributed throughout the house, but should not stagnate in it. To process the hives, place 1 prepared package in each (for 12 frames). It is placed on frames on two thin wooden slats with the holes facing down; it should be placed closer to the back wall of the hive. Once the bag is in the middle, the hive needs to be closed. Bottles and caps are laid out in the same way. Ticks die almost immediately after treatment begins.
Security measures
Formic acid as a substance is unsafe for humans, therefore, when processing, you need to worry about safety. The liquid has a strong irritant effect, it has an irritating effect on the skin, and has the same effect on the mucous membranes. If it enters the respiratory tract, it also irritates them.
For honey and other products produced by bees, formic acid is not harmful, it does not get into products, and upon contact with air it gradually breaks down into carbon dioxide and water, completely safe substances. Has no harmful effects on the environment. Honey can be consumed and stored after processing without restrictions.
But during the processing itself, safety measures should be taken. You need to work in a gown, rubber gloves, a respirator and goggles. Preparations should be carried out in the fresh air.Try not to get the substance on your skin, eyes, or nose. After contact with mucous membranes or skin, immediately rinse the area with water. After finishing work, even if formic acid does not come into contact with the skin, your face and hands should be washed with soap and water.
In case of poisoning, a quick gastric lavage will help, then you need to drink egg whites and mucous decoctions. In case of severe poisoning, you should consult a doctor.
Storage conditions
Formic acid is stored for 3 years, in the original packaging, with the lid closed. Storage conditions: in a cool place, at temperatures up to 25 ° C. Do not store food, medicines, or household products nearby.
Formic acid as a folk remedy is actively used by beekeepers to combat a dangerous pest - the varroa mite. The product itself is safe for bees if the correct concentration is used. At a low concentration, the effect will be reduced; at a higher concentration, the product may pose a danger to bees. It is important to apply it in a timely manner - when the bees are just starting the season and at its end.
It is acceptable to use during the season if there are a lot of ticks and the insects need to be treated urgently. Then carry out at least two treatments in a row. Afterwards, you need to check how the remedy worked, that is, examine the bees and, if no mites are visible, the treatment can be considered complete.
Do not forget about safety measures when carrying out work. The acid and its fumes can be toxic to the beekeeper. By using clothing and protective equipment, the danger can be minimized. In general, the use of the drug can be considered one of the most effective and fastest ways to get rid of a pest.
