Essential Oils

[Queenannsrevenge]

I plan on trying to use a holistic approach with one of my hives this year - SBB, essential oils, natural pollen patties, etc. With that in mind, I'd like to ask anyone who has done this to share their syrup and patty mix recipes. Thanks -

Martin

[Michael Bush]

http://www.beesource.com/ubb/Forum3/HTML/000062.html

Here is a discussion and includes some of my recipes.

[fat/beeman]

Hello Martin
I have been useing wintergreen for over 5yrs. now with very good luck.
in my pattys and as a top feed too
Don

[Queenannsrevenge]

Michael & Don -

Thanks.

Don -

What recipe are you using for you patties?

[Queenannsrevenge]

One of the other thoughts that I have had is plant a border of spearmint, peppermint and thyme around the apiary. (If nothing else, the smell will be nice). Anyone experimented with planting beneficial plants as addition to treatment?

Martin

[Michael Bush]

Check the link above for my recipes and discussions on natural controls.

[Les]

Martin: I suggest tht you visit the following site. http://www.wvu.edu/~agexte/ipm/insec...oa/measure.htm This is a West Virginia University site dealing with the research of Essential Oils used in honey bee hives. Some very good information on the subject.
Les in SC

[fat/beeman]

Michael
my way to make pattys is about 1/2 of a 3lb. can of crisco and 1/2 of 5lb. bag of sugar 1/4 cup honey 2 tablespoons wintergreen oil 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil. mix and put on top of frames I use about 1/2 cup on a hive.
good luck-Don

[Michael Bush]

I haven't tried it, but I would guess the honey in the mixture would be a good attractant.

[rainesridgefarm]

fat/beeman

when do you apply your patties? Also do you notice that your queens last longer because not using the chemicals?

Phillip