How to Keep Bees Away
Bees play an essential role in pollinating plants and making honey. However, for many people, bee infestation can be problematic, especially if someone has allergies. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep bees away from your property naturally.
Natural Bee Repellents
One of the most effective ways of keeping bees away from your property is by using natural repellents. Essential oils and vinegar are two of the most commonly used natural repellents. Bees find these smells unpleasant, and they usually stay away from areas that have them. You can mix a few drops of essential oils or vinegar with water and add the mixture to a spray bottle. Then, spray it around your property where bees gather. Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils are excellent options for repelling bees.
Food and Drink Coverage
Bees are attracted to sweet and sugary foods. It is essential to keep all food and drink covered in bee-proof containers when eating outside. You can use net food domes or similar containers to keep your food and drinks safe from bees. Additionally, you should not leave food and sweet drinks unattended for extended periods. You can also make a simple bee trap by using a plastic bottle, cutting the top off, and inverting the cut piece inside the bottom half of the bottle. Add a mixture of sugar, water, and vinegar and place it a distance from where you will be eating and drinking.
Bee-Repellent Plants
Planting herbs like mint, basil, and lemongrass around your property is an excellent way of keeping bees away. These plants contain essential oils that bees do not favor. You can also place these plants in containers near your seating area to keep bees away.
Protective Clothing
It is crucial to wear protective clothing when working or hanging out near bee hives. Protective clothing includes long-sleeved shirts, pants, gloves, and a hat. Wearing protective clothing reduces your chances of being stung by bees.
Sealed Rubbish Bins
Like sweet and sugary food, bees are attracted to rubbish bins that have any type of food residue. It is crucial to seal rubbish bins correctly to avoid attracting bees. You can use tightly fitted lids or liners to keep bees away.
Seal Gaps and Holes in the House
Small gaps and holes in the house can serve as entry points for bees. Sealing these gaps increases the chances of keeping bees away from your home. You can use caulk to seal the gaps and holes in your home.
Avoid Bright Colors and Floral Patterns
Bright colors and floral patterns can attract bees. It is best to stick to plain colors and neutrals when going outside or working near bee hives.
Conclusion
Keeping bees away can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Using natural repellents, covering food and drinks, plants that repel bees, protective clothing, sealing rubbish bins, sealing gaps and holes in the house, and avoiding bright colors and floral patterns are all effective ways of keeping bees away. Also, if you have a severe infestation, it’s always wise to contact a professional who can safely and efficiently relocate the bees. Try these tips to enjoy your outdoor space without bees buzzing around you.
Actionable Step
One of the easiest and most effective ways of keeping bees away is by using natural repellents. You can start by mixing essential oils or vinegar with water and spraying it around your property. Additionally, you can plant plants like mint and basil around your property, dress in protective clothing, and seal gaps and holes in your house. Don’t let bees spoil your outdoor fun.