For humans, certain smells may bring a flood of nostalgia and bring comfort and joy. But the same isn’t true for bees! In fact, some scents can send them into a spiraling flight in the opposite direction. In this article, we explore the different scents that have this powerful effect on our buzzing friends, and how you can use them in your home or garden.
1. Let the Fragrance of These Scents Send Bees Hasting Away
When it comes to keeping bees away from your outdoor spaces, nothing quite beats the power of scent. Repelling the pesky pollinators is as easy as letting the breeze carry the odors of some time-tested natural aromatics. Here are a few that are known to do the trick.
- Eucalyptus: Invigorating and minty, this scent is often found in many insect repelling concoctions.
- Lemongrass: Aside from being a culinary delight, this grassy citrus scent is great at warding off bees as well.
- Citronella: This oil has long been used as an effective natural deterrent for smaller bugs. Bees won’t want to stick around either.
However, for these scents to do its job, they will need to be used in a way that makes them easier to detect. To achieve this, try burning candles and incense sticks made with the oils. Adding some dried herbs to the mix will increase the scent’s potency. Alternatively, you can hang sachets of herbs and oils from different areas around the yard. Just make sure to replenish their fragrances every now and then.
For those looking for a non-toxic and natural way to repel bees, these scents are sure to provide quick and effective solutions. They are lightweight, easy to work with, and sure to do the job.
2. Getting to Know the Power of Certain Aromas
Whether seeking a gentle release from the everyday cares, or looking to absorb oneself in a more meaningful experience, understanding the power of certain aromas can be beneficial in both pursuits. A few select fragrances have been shown to bring a special feeling of peacefulness and relaxation to the person or atmosphere.
Jasmine – This sweet and perfumed aroma possess a remarkable calming effect on the mind. As it swirls through the air it can foster a sense of comfort during meditation as well as provide relief from stress and anxiety.
Lavender – Studies have confirmed that this flowery scent produces a sedating effect. By increasing alpha-waves, it can relax the subject while reducing blood pressure and heart rate. A few drops of lavender oil on your pillow can also help bring on restful sleep.
Sage – Among the psychological benefits of this scent are the sharpened mental clarity one can achieve. It’s said to stimulate inspiration and metaphor-like thinking. For those moments when the answer just needs to suddenly appear, sage can give rise to that “Ah-ha!” moment:
- Improves focus and memory.
- Uplifts the spirit and aligns the senses.
- Connects one to feelings of creativity and cleverness.
3. Something Sweet and Sour to Keep the Bees Moving Along
One of the best ways to keep the bees moving along is with a mix of something sweet and something sour. It can add an extra zing to their work and give them the energy they need throughout the day. Here are some tasty combinations to try:
- Honey and Balsamic Vinegar. A little honey for a sweet taste, and a bit of balsamic vinegar to inject a bit of sourness. Together, they make a unique, and delicious, blend of flavours that will give the bees a much-needed boost.
- Orange Juice and Lime Juice. This is a great mix for something sweet and sour that won’t be too overpowering. The combination of tart and sweet citrus juices will give the bees a zesty kick as they get to work.
- Vanilla Extract and Lemon Juice. A classic combo; creamy vanilla extract mixed with a dash of tart lemon juice. Not only will it provide the bees with a sweet and sour energy kick, but the aroma will be delightfully invigorating too.
Feeding the bees something sweet and sour is not only tasty, but it can help keep them productive. Whether you find a novel combination or stick with a classic one, the bees will be buzzing with excitement (and energy) when you serve up something a little bit different.
But be careful not to give them too much sugar or citrus fruits. Too much sugar and acidity can cause some serious digestive problems, leading to the bees feeling unwell – not the outcome you want!
4. Pungent Scents that Make the Bees Flee
When it comes to deterring bees, pungent scents are powerful tools. From annoying insects to dangerous predators, many creatures have been known to avoid strong odors that have been put forth as deterrents.
Citronella is an oil derived from the lemon-scented citronella plant. It has a strong lemony smell that drives away all sorts of insects, including bees. Citronella can be used as an oil or incense burnable, and it can be found in many insect repellent products. Light citronella candles to ward off bees and other insects.
Garlic is an effective natural insect repellent. Its pungent odor is one that many insects dislike. It’s sometimes added to special sprays or oils that can be purchased to ward off bees. Alternatively, garlic spray can be made from mashed garlic cloves, water, and cayenne pepper. This potent blend can be sprayed in areas to repel bees and other pests.
Mint is another scent that insects, including bees, find unpleasant. Mint is often used in essential oils in combination with other oils, such as citronella. Mint oil can be sprayed around the house and yard, and it can also be used as an aroma diffuser. Fresh mint leaves or sprigs can also be used as a deterrent to bees.
- Cinnamon is a great alternative for mint and garlic.
- Bay Leaves are also a helpful addition, particularly when mixed with other strong smells.
- Lemongrass is one of the most popular scents used for natural bee repellant.
Using pungent scents can be an effective way of slowing down or stopping the movement of bees. If you’re dealing with a bee problem, these scents can be used alone or in combination with other deterrents for a multi-pronged approach.
5. Soothing, Floral Scents that Repel Unwanted Insects
Nothing ruins a summer night quite like the sound of buzzing mosquitoes. To keep your backyard insect-free and pleasant to lounge in, try adding a calming, floral scent with natural mosquito repellents. Here are five of the mos common, effective scents repellents used to protect your outdoor relaxation time:
Lavender: Lavender has properties that make it an effective natural insect repellent. It’s aroma is so pleasant and familiar that even humans find it calming. A few sprigs of fresh lavender around the patio and backyard can be enough to keep bugs away for hours.
Marigold: Marigold extracts have compounds that are poisonous to insects. The aromatic scent from this popular garden flower is not only pleasing to humans, but will repel common insets, like mosquitoes, aphids and small beetles. Try lining the edges of your garden with a row of marigolds to help keep those pests away.
Rosemary: Rosemary has been used for centuries to keep away mosquitoes. Its scent can fill a large space and is extremely pleasant for humans to enjoy. To create an effective barrier, try planting a few rosemary bushes or burning fresh rosemary on a charcoal.
Lemongrass: Lemongrass is the perfect remedy for a mosquito-free zone. Not only is it highly effective, but its aroma is distinctly pleasant to humans. Growing lemongrass at home is a popular citrus-flavored solution to prevent mosquitoes from entering your area. Plus, it’s a highly attractive addition to your garden.
Citronella: Citronella is probably the most common mosquito repellent. Candles and torches made from this plant are used around the world to keep insets away. You can also buy oils, lotions, and sprays with citronella to re-apply when needed.
6. Essential Oils That Unwelcome Buzzing Guests
Citronella Essential Oil
Citronella essential oil is a great choice for freshening up the outdoor space. Citronella oil has a rich, lemony aroma that bugs can’t stand! Spray it on your porch, patio, garden furniture, or anywhere else that needs a little protection from unwanted buzzing guests.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is a powerful insect repellent that is also wonderful for freshening up your outdoor space. Eucalyptus has a refreshing and stimulating scent that bugs find unpleasant. Add a few drops to a spray bottle full of water and spritz it around your patio or porch for an added layer of protection.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass essential oil is a powerful yet gentle way to deter bugs. Lemongrass has a mild, citrusy scent that is pleasant to humans but off-putting to bugs. Add a few drops of this oil to a spray bottle of water and mist around your outdoor area for protection.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is a great choice for keeping pesky bugs away. Not only does peppermint have a fresh and invigorating scent, but it also has insect-repelling properties. Add a few drops of this oil to a spray bottle of water and spritz around your patio or porch to keep the bugs away.
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary essential oil is known for its insect repelling properties. This oil has a strong, earthy aroma that bugs don’t like. Try mixing a few drops of rosemary essential oil with a spray bottle of water and spraying it around your outdoor area for added protection.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential oil is a great natural insect repellent. This oil has a strong, pungent scent that bugs can’t stand. Add a few drops of tea tree essential oil to a spray bottle of water and mist it around your outdoor area for extra protection.
7. Aroma Therapy: Keeping Bees at Bay
Aroma Therapy can help keep bees at bay. From sweet smelling floral notes to spicy bars of soap, scents can be used to deter a bee’s natural curiosity and keep them away from the backyard.
Here are 3 simple steps to using aroma therapy to keep bees at bay:
- Use scented candles, oils, and sprays in areas where bees are likely to come near. Lavender, mint, spearmint, and eucalyptus are known to be especially effective.
- Make sure the scent of aromatics is strong and can be carried on the wind throughout the garden. Keep in mind bees will still come around, but the scent will act as a deterrent.
- Mix and match different oils, sprays, or candles to maximize the aroma’s effectiveness. Different floral fragrances can work together to make the scent even more powerful.
Creating an aromatic deterrent to bees is not an exact science and results may vary with different types of bees. For honeybees in particular, a strong minty scent is preferred. Stronger candles and sprays can have a better chance of repelling bees, since the bees can often become conditioned to weaker scents.
8. Aromatic Solutions that Help You Avoid Uninvited Bee Guests
Although bees are adorable, they can cause trouble for us when they appear in unexpected places. Here are a few aromatic solutions that will help you in avoiding any “uninvited” bee guests.
Start by investing in natural, essential oil blends. If you are experiencing a bee invasion inside your home – try putting lavender, clove, or lemongrass oil on a few cotton balls in held down containers in the space. Bees are known to be repelled by these scents.
You can also find apple cider vinegar blended with essential oils like rosemary, lavender, mint, and eucalyptus. Combine and spray around where the bees are likely to enter. You can even use traditional methods like making a herbal concoction of onions, thyme, and garlic.
Additionally, you can create a bee balm by mixing turtle pigwax, vegetable oil, and bergamot or lavender essential oil. Spread some of this solution on the windows, doors or other entrances of your house. Repeat twice a day and see the amazing results.
Remember that the best way to handle bees is to respect their space. With just a few small adjustments to your environment, you can help to keep the bee population safe, healthy, and away from your home. Whether you opt for natural or artificial scents, use the power of smell to your advantage and send the bees buzzing away.
