Question 1

Why is treatment rotation important for varroa management?

Accepted Answer

Varroa mites can develop resistance to chemical treatments when the same active ingredient or chemical class is used repeatedly. Rotating between different chemical classes (organic acids, essential oils, synthetics) helps prevent resistance buildup and maintains long-term treatment effectiveness.

Question 2

How many different treatments should I include in my rotation?

Accepted Answer

Aim for at least 3 treatments from at least 2 different chemical classes. This gives you enough variety to rotate effectively across seasons while maintaining options if one treatment underperforms. Having 4 or more options from 3+ classes is ideal.

Question 3

Can I use the same treatment in spring and fall?

Accepted Answer

Using the same treatment in spring and fall of the same year is generally acceptable as long as you rotate to a different class the following year. The key is avoiding using the same chemical class for multiple consecutive treatment rounds without rotation.

Question 4

What if a treatment in my rotation stops working?

Accepted Answer

If a treatment shows declining efficacy (dropping below grade B over multiple rounds), it may indicate resistance. Remove it from your rotation and substitute with a treatment from a different chemical class. Report suspected resistance to your local apiary inspector.

Treatment Rotation Planner

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