9 Natural Repellents for Bees

Scott's Turf and Pest Services

Natural Repellents for Bees

Not all bees are created equal, and while some may be a nuisance, you should not automatically just reach for chemical sprays to keep them away. Some bees such as the honeybee is a good bee to keep alive for the sake of the environment. With that in mind, the folks at Scott’s Turf and Pest Services, the pest control experts in Durham, NC have put together a list of 9 natural repellents for bees to keep them away but not cause harm this spring and summer season.

Garlic Powder

Bees just plain dislike the smell of garlic, so in order to keep them from being near your house, sprinkle some garlic powder in any spots you may have seen them. Careful with the powder though and don’t put it directly on a bee if you see one because it’s deadly to them.

Peppermint

Much like garlic, bees don’t like the smell of peppermint. If you plant peppermint around the perimeter of your house, it will help keep them away. Not only will it drive bees away, but you can also use the plant to make tea.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is yet another spice that bees would rather avoid. Sprinkle it daily, or at least once a week where you’ve seen the bees going in and out of their nest. It will drive them away and help keep them away for good if you sprinkle it often.

Distilled Vinegar

This ingredient can keep bees out of your garden or house. Just place small, open containers of white distilled vinegar around the garden to prevent bees from hovering around.

You can also use it to wipe out birdhouses and hummingbird feeders after they’ve been emptied to repel bees.

Citronella Candles

Citronella candles are great to burn in order to keep bees out of the yard or the house. It will help to mask possible odors that bees may be attracted to, such as the nectar in a hummingbird feeder.

Soap Solution

Another organic method is to fill a spray bottle with a solution of half water and half mild dish soap. Shake the bottle to mix it, then spray it around the nest or other areas you may have spotted bees. Spray the areas at night to be more effective.

Mothballs

You can also put mothballs in something such as old nylons and hang them near any nests. The mothballs have a strong odor, which masks other smells. The bees won’t like it and avoid it if possible.

Plant Marigolds

If there are bees in the neighborhood, plant marigolds to keep them at bay. Marigolds bloom throughout the summer and give off a pungent odor that bees don’t want to be around. They can be placed in flower beds or as a border around swimming pools to repel bees.

Hire Removal Services

If you have tried a few of these remedies, but the bees keep coming back, or if you have a colony in your house, hire a live bee removal service such as Scott’s Turf and Pest Services to take of the problem today. With over 27 years of experience in pest control services we understand issues of all sizes and scope to keep pests out of your home.

To schedule your appointment with us today, click on the button below!