We often see bees flying around us, or gathering near a table of sweet-smelling flowers – but what many people don’t know is that certain smells can actually make the buzzing bees depart quickly! In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at what scents make bees buzz off, and why.
1. Aromatic Repellents: How Certain Scents Send Bees on their Way
Using scents to repel bees is a time-honored practice, and modern science has unlocked the key components that make certain aromas particularly effective pest deterrents.
Plant Oils – The compounds and compounds in certain plant based oils works as strong deterrents for bees, usually due to an overwhelming aroma. Common repellent oils include citronella, peppermint, lavender, and neem oil, making them solid considerations for anyone looking for easy natural approaches to bee control.
Deterrent Blends – Various blends of scents, commonly found at garden or home improvement stores, can produce mixtures that keep both bee and other bothersome bugs away. A few notable blends to check out include mixes of eucalyptus, garlic, and sassafras oils combined, producing a powerful deterrent smell.
- For gardeners, these can provide a natural solution for keeping footpaths, benches, and outdoor furniture clear of bees.
- Homeowners with allergy sufferers should consider natural repellents first, instead of classic harsh chemical sprays.
Overall, understanding the connections between scents and repelling bees can make it much easier to keep both house and garden safe and clear of the pesky insects. Though it’s not the only solution, repellent aroma mixtures and performance oils can be incredibly effective deterrents to combat overbearing bees.
2. A Closer Look at What Keeps Bees Away
Natural Repellents
We often think of bees and other insects as nuisance pests, and while it’s understandable to want them gone, it’s important to remember that they have as much right to our environment as we do. That’s why most people prefer a gentler method of deterrence. There are a few natural repellents that are thought to turn away bees and other flying pests without harm or irritation to them or us.
- Peppermint – Not only do bees dislike the smell of peppermint oil, but it can also serve as a natural aerator and repellent when planted near flowerbeds.
- Citronella – Spray a simple solution of citronella oil with water around windows and doorways to help keep bees away from your yard.
- Garlic – Garlic can be planted near flowers as a natural bee repellent as well as for its pest-deterring properties.
These natural repellents are thought to be harmless and chemical-free, but there is some debate as to their effectiveness when compared to other more potent chemical repellents.
Barriers
Another way to keep bees away is by using physical barriers like a screening or netting. This type of method is generally considered to be more effective than simply using repellents, but it’s also important to note that not all netting or screening material is created equal.
- Fine-Mesh Netting – This type of netting is believed to be the most effective option as it prevents even the smallest of bees from getting through.
- Bird Netting – Bird netting is often used to repel bees since it has a finer weave than some of the other netting options.
- Glass-Roof Screening – For a more attractive option, glass-roof screening can be used as an effective barrier against bees.
With proper installation, screening and netting can provide a great barrier for keeping bees away, but it’s important to check these barriers regularly for any weaknesses that may have developed with time.
3. Scents that May Help Tide You Through Spring
As winter slowly melts away and the days become longer, it’s time to welcome spring. One way to do this is to bring in the smells of the season. These aromatic scents will transport you to the warm, sunny days ahead.
Light and Fresh
Flowery fragrances can help you bridge the gap between the winter and spring months. Light and fresh scents, such as violet and lavender, will transport you to warmer temperatures with every inhale. Geranium is also a great option for this time of year, with its zesty aroma and sweet nuances.
Citrus Blends
- For a bit of zing, go for a citrus blend. Blends of lemon and grapefruit are sure to refresh and energize. Use them to give your spirit a boost and lift your mood.
- Orange is another great fragrance to bring a bit of sunshine into your home. Its cheerful aroma is perfect for brightening up your day.
Exotic and Spicy
If you’re ready to turn up the heat, try some of the stronger, more sensual choices that spring has to offer. Patchouli and sandalwood both have earthy, exotic fragrances that can tantalize the senses. You can also bring in the warmth of the season with spicy scents like cinnamon and clove, or try a blend of ginger and rose.
4. Tips to Keep Bees At Bay and Not in Your Home
Remove Possible Sources of Nectar: The most important step to keep bees away from your home is to remove any easily accessible sources of nectar. Bees are attracted to highly scented flowers, fruits, and sweet items, such as soda cans and sugary drinks. Make sure to take out all these items from your balcony or garden area. It is also not a bad idea to invest in a high-quality trash can that seals well.
Keep Outdoor Furniture Away: Another great way to reduce the risk of a bee infestation is to keep outdoor furniture away from any potential sources of nectar. Keeping furniture around these sources could provide a nesting spot for a colony of bees. If you don’t want this to happen, make sure to keep any furniture inside and away from the nectar.
Use Insecticides Wisely: If you find that you have an existing bee problem in your home, you should use insecticides to eliminate the bees. However, it is important to use caution when employing insecticides. Make sure to research which kinds of insecticides are the most effective, and more importantly, safe, to use around your home. Some insecticides can be dangerous to humans and pets if used incorrectly.
Invest in Bee Traps: Investing in bee traps is a great solution for bee infestations. These traps attract the bees to them, before trapping and killing them. This is an easy and low-cost way to get rid of bees around your home and yard. Many traps come in various sizes and shapes, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
5. The Sweet Smell of Success: Honey-Based Repellents
Honey-based repellents can be an effective natural defense against pesky pests. Honey is created by honeybees and contains essential nutrients that act as a natural insect repellent when applied to the skin or clothing. Insects, such as mosquitos, find the sweet smell of honey unappealing and quickly turn away when the scent is in the air.
When creating a honey-based repellent, make sure to use high-quality, raw honey. This honey should not contain any other added substances as it will reduce the repellent qualities. Gentlywarm the honey until it is in a liquid state, but do not overheat as this will destroy certain beneficial components found in the honey.
Once the honey is in a liquid form, it can be applied to skin and clothing, or even used to create a homemade mosquito trap. To do this, simply place a small bowl of honey next to any area where mosquitos typically gather. The scent will act as a natural repellent to drive the mosquitos away.
- Raw honey is the best for natural repellents
- Warm until it is in a liquid form, without overheating
- Apply to skin and clothing or make a homemade mosquito trap
Honey-based repellents are incredibly easy to create, and are a great alternative to chemical repellents. They offer a more natural, inexpensive solution to protecting against biting insects.
6. Different Forms & Types of Repulsive Scents
Felt Smells
Ever felt a smell that just stays there, no matter where you go and no matter how hard you try to ignore it? That’s what’s known as a felt smell. It usually occurs when something so vile has been exposed to the air that it sticks around, just like a pungent aroma. Felt smells may be anything from burning plastic to sewage. The extent of these smells is generally considered to be highly unpleasant and repulsive.
Carcinogenic Scents
Carcinogenic scents, while less common than other repulsive odors, can still be a health hazard. These smells usually come from substances like chemicals or exhaust from vehicles, but can also come from decaying matter or burning plastic, especially if the fire is not properly contained. The fumes emitted are often toxic and can cause harm to anyone who is exposed to them for too long a time.
Mold & Mildew
Mold and mildew are two of the more unpleasant and reviving scents that humans are exposed to. Both of these substances are often found in damp and dank environments. Breathing in either one of these strong and sour smells can cause an array of reactions, ranging from dizziness and headaches to allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues.
Smoke & Ash
Smoke and ash are two of the more lingering, repulsive scents. The smell of smoke can stick to furniture and clothes for a long time, and both smoke and ash have been found to trigger health issues in certain people. The stench of smoke and ash can also contain hazardous materials, making it dangerous to be around for prolonged periods of time.
7. Experimenting with Scent-Based Solutions To Prompt Bee-Free Living
We have all seen bee-free environments, and have read about the dangerous effects that beehives have on the environment. But what if you could create a bee-free living space without harming the bee population? With advances in technology, it is now possible to experiment with scent to create an environment that doesn’t attract bees.
Here are five scents you can experiment with to create a bee-free living space:
- Mint: Mint offers a strong and sharp smell that can help mask the smell of flowers and other nectar sources.
- Rosemary: The smell of rosemary is repulsive to bees and can serve as a deterrent.
- Clove: The smell of clove when added to food has been known to deter bees as it contains phenylpropanoids.
- Lemon Balm: Lemon balm also contains both limonene and citral, which can mask the smell of certain flowers.
- Cilantro: The smell of cilantro has a strong citrus aroma, which can deter bees.
In addition to attempting to mask the smell of flowers, these five scents can also create a barrier that bees won’t cross. For example, if you are having an outdoor event, you could spray the area with one of these scents to keep bees away.
Ultimately, experimenting with scent-based solutions is a great way to promote bee-free living without harming the bee population. With the implementation of these five scents, you can enjoy a bee-free living space that is safe and environmentally friendly.
8. Breezing Through Bee Season with Natural Odors
Bee season doesn’t have to be the end of the world. One great way to keep those buzzing beasties away is by spraying natural odors. Contrary to popular belief, certain smells act as natural deterrents to bees. The best recipe for this is to combine a few different essential oils to create your own concoction. You’d be surprised how far a natural spray or a few simple scented candles can do. Here’s a few combo ideas to get started:
- Lavender and Lemon Oil – the zesty zing of lemon married with the calming, herbal aroma of lavender make a great synergy that’ll help keep the bees outdoors.
- Peppermint and Citronella – The minty aroma of peppermint and the citronella’s sour smell will help mask your scent and ward away bees.
- Cinnamon and Clove – Strong and spicy, the smell of these two spices will keep even the most determined bees at bay.
Depending on the area you live in and the type of bees, some smells may be more potent than others. The key is to experiment and observe the effects. You may find that some of these essential oils are strong enough on their own, while other may require mixing. You could even try mixing essential oils with some light perfume or body sprays if you find that bees won’t stay away.
Making your own natural aroma deterrents can be a fantastic way of enjoying summer without spending a fortune on chemical-based products. Best part is, you get to have the joy of making your own unique concoction. With the right combination of essential oils, you can always breeze through bee season.
Evoking certain scents can make any outdoor gathering bumble-free. So why not use the power of smell to drive away bees and get back to enjoying the summer sun?
