VarroxSan – Natural Varroa Mite Treatment with Slow-Release Oxalic Acid Strips

VarroxSan is a natural solution for controlling varroa mite populations in honey bee colonies. Each 60-pack can treat between 15 and 30 hives; the 20-pack can treat between 5 and 10 colonies.

Using slow-release strips, VarroxSan provides a sustained, controlled release of oxalic acid — effective against varroa mites while staying safe for bees, brood, and queens year-round. Based on independent research from US and international programs, Varroxsan can be used to keep mite levels low and as a knockdown treatment in summer.

Update: We are now able to ship this product to California.

Pack Options:

• 20 pack — 20 strips
• 60 pack — 60 strips
• 600 pack — 10 packs of the 60-pack

Features and Benefits

• High Efficacy: Achieves an average of 98.6% effectiveness against varroa mites when used according to the label.
• Works With High or Low Mite Load: Keeps mite levels low in spring and fall, and knocks mites down quickly during summer when levels peak.
• Natural Treatment: Uses oxalic acid, a natural compound, for mite control.
• Slow-Release Strips: Provides a consistent dose over a 42–56 day treatment period.
• Bee-Friendly: Safe for bees, brood, and queens throughout the year.
• Organic Beekeeping: Suitable for organic practices.
• Convenient Application: Can be used with honey supers in place.
• Environmental Safety: Poses no notable risk to the environment or user.
• No Temperature Restrictions: Effective at any temperature, with optimal performance during active bee movement.

Usage Instructions

Use up to 4 VarroxSan strips in a brood chamber, placed between brood frames so bees can walk on them. Leave in place for 42–56 days, then remove. If bees aren't in contact with the strips after 42 days, reposition closer to the cluster. Strips must be removed after 56 days.

For colonies in double brood boxes, place four strips in the lower chamber and up to two additional strips in the upper chamber. For medium-frame brood chambers, use half the dose. Two medium boxes stacked together count as one deep box.

Detailed Description

VarroxSan is made from oxalic acid dihydrate (18.42%) delivered in slow-release fiberboard strips. Each pack contains 60 strips, treating 15–30 hives. Each treatment lasts 42 to 56 days, and works best in summer and autumn, though it can be used year-round under the right conditions.

The slow-release mechanism ensures controlled distribution of oxalic acid, reducing the need for repeated treatments — well suited for low honey flow periods.

Additional Info

• Care Instructions: Store below 86°F (30°C) and out of direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
• Shelf Life: 24 months from the date of manufacture.

FAQ — Read the Latest FAQ

1. What is VarroxSan?
   An oxalic acid solution in slow-release strips used to control varroa mites. Suitable for organic beekeeping.
2. How do I apply VarroxSan?
   Use 4 strips per brood chamber, folded in half and placed over frames inside the brood area. Leave in place for 42–56 days.
3. What's the best time of day to apply it?
   Any time of day works.
4. Can I use it with double brood chambers?
   Yes — place 4 strips in the lower brood chamber and up to 2 additional strips in the top chamber if full of bees.
5. Can VarroxSan be used in springtime?
   Yes, as long as temperatures are warm enough for hive activity.
6. Is it safe during honey production?
   Yes — approved for use with honey supers on, and studies show no significant increase in oxalic acid levels in honey.
7. Can I feed my colonies while using it?
   Yes — feeding encourages bees to distribute the oxalic acid throughout the hive.
8. What if the bee cluster moves away from the strips?
   Reposition the strips closer to the cluster two weeks after application if necessary.
9. What if bees remove the strips before treatment ends?
   This can happen due to hygienic behavior. Check mite load to confirm the treatment was effective.
10. Can I use VarroxSan in hot weather?
    Yes — no temperature restrictions apply.
11. How should I store it?
    Below 86°F (30°C), out of direct sunlight.
12. Can I use it with open mesh floors or screened bottom boards?
    Yes, though it's advisable to close the mesh or use a varroa-collecting tray during treatment.
13. Are varroa mites resistant to oxalic acid?
    No known resistance exists, but it's still advisable to alternate treatments to prevent resistance from developing.

Watch our video to learn more about the details of this product.

Read our blog: Varroxsan — A Cardboard Oxalic Acid Strip for tips on getting the best use out of it.