Grease Patties

[Dewey]

Grease Patties containing both wintergreen oil or tea tree oil and mineral salt appear to have an effect on varroa mites and tracheal mites.

These effects can be seen when brood is present and has a devastating effect on mites when brood is not present. However, grease patties with essential oils should not be used during the time of honey collection for human consumption.

During this time, grease patties without essential oils can be used to a lesser effect.

For any noticeable effect, a grease patty of some form should be used at all times. Replace any consumed patties.
 

Simple Grease Patty

    1 part (by volume) solid vegetable shorting (such as Crisco)
    2 parts (by volume) white sugar

Mix sugar and shortening until well combined. Split into approximately quarter cup (~6 centiliters) portions and store excess in the freezer sandwiched between sheets of wax paper.