Small Hive Beetle Management

[StarrGin]

I've been a hobby bee keeper for a few years.  I've noticed SHB in my hives.  They've only been a notable problem in weak hives that ultimately failed.  I've tried trapping with modest results, but not as successful as I would like.

Another keeper I spoken with told me the best way to manage SHB is hive movement.  SHB larva leave the hive and burrow in the ground to pupate.  I would assume they burrow in the ground under or nearby the hive. 

Is there any way to know (seasonally) when larva would leave the hive?
Is there any recommendation ground treatments that would kill the larva/pupa?
Is there any recommendation on the distance the hive should be moved?

Thanks.

[van from Arkansas]

Hi Mr. Star.  I lime the soil, gently scratch in the dirt below the entrance.  I use powered lime about a cup per hive.  The soil becomes so alkaline the larva are toasted in their tracks.

I use a can a freeze spray for adult beetle.  Freeze spray is minus 62F at the tip.  Cans are available at the large retailer on the web.  Non toxic and nonflammable, the spray is used to blow off dust on computer chips and to remove warts/moles on people.

[.30WCF]

Traps work better with veggie oil than with mineral oil. Probably 5:1 more beetles in the veggie.


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