Apiguard is based on Thymol. Sold as 1 treatment which requires 2 trays to be placed on brood frames consecutively. Treatment needs to be whilst there are no supers on hives and whilst ambient temperatures are above 15’c.
Total treatment time is 4 weeks.
IN DEPTH DESCRIPTION
Apiguard is a popular, natural thymol- based gel used by many beekeepers to control Varroa mites, tracheal mites, and chalkbrood in honey bee colonies. The gel evaporates inside the hive, and the bees spread the active ingredient as their hygienic traits urges attempts to remove it.
Key Guidelines for Use
- Temperature Range: Works best at ambient temperatures above 15°C (60°F) but remains effective in cooler conditions (though evaporation takes longer).
- Timing: Apply after the final honey harvest (no honey supers should be on the hive during treatment).
- Dosage: The standard dose is 50g per colony. This is typically done in two applications of 50g trays, 14 days apart. Alternatively, in very hot weather, three doses of 25-33g applied every 7–10 days can be used to prevent disruptive fumigation.
- Duration: The total treatment usually lasts 4 to 6 weeks.
How to Apply
- Peel the Lid: Remove or peel back the foil lid of the Apiguard tray.
- Placement: Place the tray gel-side up on the top bars of the brood frames, ideally centered over the colony.
- Provide Space: Bees need room to enter the tray, so you must place an empty super, eke, or shim above the brood chamber before closing the hive.
- Monitor and Replace: Inspect the tray after 10–14 days. If it is nearly empty, replace it with the second tray. If there is still product, wait a few more days before applying the second tray.
Our EBKA members, tutors & beekeepers have an extensive knowledge about different medications and their uses and are always on hand if you require any further assistance or guidance.
Our bi-weekly talk sessions covers all aspects of beekeeping that also covers this subject so is a must to attend if you would like to widen your “beek” knowledge.
