Glycerin 1 kg for Varroa mite strips

Purpose

Glycerin 1 kg is used for making oxalic-acid-soaked strips for Varroa mite control in the hive. Glycerin helps keep the solution on the strips and slows down drying.

Strip solution recipe

• For 60 strips: 1 kg of glycerin and 600 g of oxalic acid.
• Heat the glycerin in a water bath to 60–65 °C.
• Add oxalic acid and stir until fully dissolved.
• Do not heat the solution above 65 °C.

Soaking the strips

• Cardboard or veneer strips are used; corrugated cardboard is not suitable.
• Place the strips into the solution at about 35 °C for 8–12 hours.
• After soaking, hang the strips to dry.
• Finished strips can be stored in a tightly closed container or plastic bag for up to 3 months.

Use in the hive

• Place the strips between the frames, bending them into a U shape.
• The approximate rate is 5–8 strips per 10-frame hive, depending on the level of mite infestation.
• For mite population control, use at least 3 cycles of 15 days.
• Do not use the strips during the honey flow.
• Make sure the solution does not drip onto the bottom of the hive.