1. Since the appearance of tracheal mite, I've never used the recommended
treatment of a 50-gram pak of menthol crystals applied about 1 sep when
it is still warm enuf to convert the stuff to gas.
2. Today I placed a paper towel saturated w/vegetable oil (any kind; cheaper
the better) between the two deep broodchambers. Within a week the bees will
have removed it. Especially noticeable if one runs pollen traps as I do, on
seven of my strongest colonies (only have 12 now).
3. I also do this September 1st when I repeat the treatment a week later.
4. In talks w/my fellow beekeepers who use menthol, my survival rate is
as good
as theirs.
5. Theory is that the oil makes mite transference between bees difficult.
6. I know that people use diluted formic acid for the same purpose even
tho it is said to be "not approved yet." C'est la vie. Suum cuique.
 
Jack the Bman
Ellicott City Md USA
Thermometer hit 84degrees here today; bees bringing in
a green pollen (maple?) like mad (collected a full pound despite the fact
Maryland USA is NOT pollen country;
also visiting my plum, pear, apple, cherry and peach trees just breaking