As a beekeeper, one of the common challenges you may encounter is the small hive beetle (SHB). Native to sub-Saharan Africa, these pests have become a major problem for beekeepers worldwide, particularly in warm climates. Small hive beetles can quickly disrupt and damage a hive, leading to stress on the bees and potential loss of honey stores. If you’re looking for a natural, chemical-free solution, diatomaceous earth (DE) may be a valuable addition to your hive management practices. In this blog post, we’ll cover what diatomaceous earth is, how it affects small hive beetles, and best practices for using it in your beekeeping routine.
Understanding Small Hive Beetles
Small hive beetles are small, dark, and oval-shaped insects that thrive in bee colonies, especially those that are weak or stressed. Adult beetles invade hives, laying eggs in crevices and combs. When the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on pollen, honey, and even bee brood, causing contamination and damaging the hive structure. If left unchecked, SHB infestations can cause honey to ferment, which not only harms the bees but also makes honey unusable for harvesting.
To manage these pests, beekeepers often turn to chemical pesticides, but there’s growing interest in natural, non-toxic options like diatomaceous earth.
What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is a fine, powdery substance made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of ancient algae. Over time, these algae left behind silica-based shells that settled on ocean and lake beds, forming diatomaceous earth. When processed, DE becomes a fine, abrasive powder that’s both safe and effective for pest control.
It’s essential to use food-grade diatomaceous earth around bees, as this type is safe for humans and animals but still lethal to small insects like hive beetles. Unlike chemical pesticides, food-grade DE won’t leave behind toxic residues, making it a preferred choice for eco-conscious beekeepers.
How Diatomaceous Earth Works on Small Hive Beetles
Diatomaceous earth kills insects through a physical, rather than chemical, process. The tiny, sharp particles in DE damage the exoskeleton of small hive beetles, causing them to dehydrate and eventually die. This mechanism is highly effective on adult beetles and their larvae when they come into contact with DE.
One advantage of DE is that pests cannot develop resistance to it, as it acts mechanically rather than chemically. This makes diatomaceous earth a sustainable, long-term solution for managing small hive beetles.
Benefits of Using Diatomaceous Earth for Hive Beetle Control
Diatomaceous earth offers a range of advantages for beekeepers looking to control small hive beetles without using harsh chemicals:
Natural and Non-Toxic: Food-grade DE is safe to use around bees, humans, and the environment, making it a great option for organic beekeeping.
Prevents Chemical Residues in Honey: Since DE isn’t a chemical pesticide, it won’t affect honey quality or leave toxic residues in the hive.
Long-Lasting: DE remains effective as long as it’s dry, meaning you won’t have to reapply it frequently.
Environmentally Friendly: DE doesn’t harm the environment, so you can feel confident that you’re protecting your hives naturally.
Best Practices for Using Diatomaceous Earth Against Small Hive Beetles
When it comes to using diatomaceous earth around bees, caution is essential to avoid harming the bees themselves. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying DE safely and effectively:
1. Choose the Right DE Product
Always select food-grade diatomaceous earth, which is safe for use around bees. Filter-grade DE is not safe and should be avoided for beekeeping purposes.
2. Identify Hive Beetle Hotspots
Small hive beetles often congregate in hive bottom boards or in traps designed for beetle control. Look for areas with larvae activity or beetle sightings to maximize DE’s impact.
3. Apply DE in the Hive Trap or Under the Hive
Place a small amount of DE on bottom boards or in dedicated hive beetle traps such as cd cases, where the beetles are most likely to encounter it without exposing bees directly.
A popular option is to place DE in the soil directly under the hive and NOT the hive entrance. We want the diatomaceous earth to come into contact with the hive beetle and not the bee itself, so do not apply diatomaceous earth at the hive entrance. Since beetle larvae must leave the hive to pupate in the ground, placing DE in the soil creates a barrier that kills beetles as they try to burrow and pupate.
4. Use in Combination with Other Control Methods
While DE is effective, it’s often most successful when combined with other pest management strategies. Consider using traps specifically designed for small hive beetles, which can be filled with DE for added effectiveness.
5. Reapply as Necessary
Diatomaceous earth is sensitive to moisture, so it’s essential to monitor and reapply it, especially after heavy rains or in humid conditions. Ensure the DE is dry and undisturbed to maintain its effectiveness.
Precautions for Using Diatomaceous Earth in Beekeeping
Though DE is generally safe, there are a few precautions to keep in mind when using it around your bees:
Avoid Direct Contact with Bees: Diatomaceous earth can harm beneficial insects if they come into direct contact with it, as it has a drying effect. Always apply DE where bees are less likely to encounter it.
Wear a Mask During Application: DE is a fine powder, and inhaling large amounts can irritate the respiratory tract. Wear a mask and apply it carefully.
Keep DE Dry: Diatomaceous earth loses its effectiveness when wet, so try to keep it in dry areas, and avoid applying it on rainy or high-humidity days.
Frequently Asked Questions about Diatomaceous Earth and Small Hive Beetles
1. Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Bees?
Yes, when used correctly. Food-grade DE can be safe around bees if applied in areas where the bees are unlikely to encounter it directly, such as in traps or under the hive.
2. How Long Does DE Take to Kill Hive Beetles?
The drying effect of DE can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days to kill hive beetles, depending on environmental factors. Beetles must come into contact with the DE for it to be effective.
3. Can I Use DE for Other Hive Pests?
Yes, DE can be used to manage various pests, including ants, mites, and other insects that may invade your hive area. However, always exercise caution to avoid contact with the bees.
4. Will Rain Affect DE’s Effectiveness?
Yes, DE becomes ineffective when wet. If you’ve applied it outdoors or under the hive, check after rain to see if it needs reapplication.
Conclusion
Diatomaceous earth is a versatile, natural solution for controlling small hive beetles in your bee colonies. With its non-toxic nature, ease of application, and lasting effectiveness, DE can be a valuable tool in your pest management toolkit. By applying it carefully, in areas where beetles are likely to come into contact but bees are less likely to be exposed, you can manage small hive beetles while maintaining a safe and healthy environment for your bees.
For beekeepers seeking to reduce chemical use and safeguard their hives, diatomaceous earth offers a sustainable, effective, and natural option to keep these pesky beetles at bay. With consistent use and proper application, you can protect your hives and keep them thriving year-round.
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