Differential Effects of Eucalyptus, Garlic, Rosemary, and Basil Smokes on Varroa destructor Mite Fall and Apis mellifera Colony Calmness

Varroa destructor continues to cause major winter losses in Apis mellifera apiaries across Iraq, while repeated use of synthetic acaricides has led to resistance and residue concerns. Plant-based smoke may provide a low-cost alternative, but beekeepers need a practical delivery method. We tested four botanical smokes using compressed cardboard egg cartons—a common smoker fuel in local apiaries—as a substrate to extend burn time. Garlic smoke gave the highest might fall at 95.6% efficacy, whereas eucalyptus smoke produced the calmest colonies at 4.5/5.0. This indicates treatment choice can be matched to the beekeeper’s immediate need. Methods: We worked with 36 equal-strength colonies in babylon from March–May 2025. Groups received 30-second smoke applications of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Allium sativum, Rosmarinus officinalis, or Ocimum basilicum mixed with egg carton, plus egg carton-only and untreated controls. Mite fall was counted on sticky boards after 48 h. Calmness was scored 0–5 by the same observer during inspection. Data were compared using One-Way ANOVA and Duncan’s test, P ≤ 0.05. Results: Garlic smoke produced 3.83 ± 0.19 mites/colony/48h, significantly more than all other treatments. Eucalyptus smoke gave the highest calmness score at 4.50 ± 0.22. Rosemary and basil showed intermediate effects. Egg carton alone had minimal impact. Conclusion: Garlic smoke is suited for targeted Varroa knockdown when mite counts are high, and eucalyptus smoke for routine inspections where beekeeper safety matters. Using egg carton as a carrier makes the method affordable and easy to adopt in organic IPM programs.