85% formic acid is used in beekeeping to control the Varroa destructor mite in honey bees. It acts through penetration, reaching even sealed brood cells. Its dilution should be adjusted to the ambient temperature, as it evaporates more quickly at higher temperatures and more slowly at lower temperatures.
At temperatures above 30°C, the recommended dilution is 50%: 35 ml of formic acid and 25 ml of water. At temperatures of 25–30°C, the dilution is 60%: 42 ml of formic acid and 18 ml of water. At temperatures below 25°C, the dilution is 70%. Use extreme caution during application and wear protective gloves and goggles. Test the treatment on 2–3 hives first and, if no problems occur, proceed with the remaining hives.
- Concentration: 85%
- Quantity: 1 lt
- Use: Control of Varroa destructor in honey bees
- Action: Penetrates sealed brood cells
- Dilution above 30°C: 50% (35 ml of formic acid and 25 ml of water)
- Dilution at 25–30°C: 60% (42 ml of formic acid and 18 ml of water)
- Dilution below 25°C: 70%
- Protective equipment: Protective gloves and goggles
- Trial application: On 2–3 hives