I have used pine chippings exclusively this year after having a row of leylandii cut down and chipped at the end of last year; I saved a couple of boxes of chippings and put them in the garage all winter to dry out.  They have been a very good smoker fuel - I think the size of the chips allows a good airflow.

As to varroa, I do not monitor much except for recording bees with DVW and I have seen very few of those this year - two or three in a colony would be unusual.

Best wishes

Peter 
52°14'44.44"N, 1°50'35"W

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