Acetic acid

[Mellifera Crofter]

Does anybody know if I can treat brood combs with acetic acid in a polystyrene hive? Will the hive be damaged? I've only used wooden hives before.

Kitta

[fatshark]

Yes, not a problem. It's metalwork that suffers, but poly hives (Abelo and Swienty) are apparently untouched.

[Mellifera Crofter]

Thanks Fatshark - using my poly hives for acetic acid treatment will make things a bit easier for me.
Kitta

[fatshark]

Remember that acetic acid stains concrete, paving or stone slabs.

I found out the hard way :(

[Mellifera Crofter]

Oh! Thanks, Fatshark. Good to know - but I'm sure the bees won't mind.

[Mellifera Crofter]

Another acetic acid question: I have a vague feeling I read somewhere that acetic acid is not that effective in cold weather. Does anybody know if that is true?
Kitta

[Adam]

I have the same vague feeling Kitta, so I have probably read it somewhere. I guess it won't evaporate very quickly when cold. It has to be said that I haven't used the stuff for some years; I have a freezer that can take 1/2 dozen supers at at time so I freeze them before storage although occasionally the odd moth seems to get in.

[Mellifera Crofter]

Thanks Adam. Your guess about evaporation sounds feasible. If so, I guess I should just keep the frames wrapped up for longer. Fingers crossed.
Kitta

[greengumbo]

Where do people get their acetic acid these days ?

[Mellifera Crofter]

Where do people get their acetic acid these days ?

You can order the 80% acetic acid online from Bonnymans, GG.
Kitta