13 Easy Ways to Keep Bees Away from Your House
Introduction
Bees are essential creatures for our ecosystem. They play a vital role in pollination and contribute to the overall health of our planet. However, when bees start invading your personal space, it can be quite a nuisance. If you’re someone who’s scared of bees or allergic to their stings, it’s important to know how to keep them away from your house without harming them. In this article, we will discuss 13 easy and natural ways to deter bees from your property.
Why Do Bees Come Near Your House?
Before we jump into the solutions, it’s important to understand why bees might be attracted to your house in the first place. Bees are generally drawn to places with flowers, sweet scents, water sources, or nesting spots. They are also known to be sensitive to bright colors and shiny surfaces, which can attract them towards your home. Plus, if you have fruit trees or vegetable gardens nearby, bees may be naturally drawn to the area.
1. Avoid Sweet Scents
Bees have a strong sense of smell and are attracted to sweet scents. Avoid using strongly scented perfumes, candles, or cleaning products outdoors, as they can draw bees towards your house. Opt for unscented or naturally scented products instead.
2. Plant Bee-Repelling Plants
Certain plants are known to naturally repel bees. Consider planting peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, citronella, or marigolds around your house to deter bees from coming near. These plants not only act as natural repellents but also add beauty to your garden.
3. Use Essential Oils
Another effective way to keep bees away is by using essential oils. Bees dislike the strong smells of certain oils. Dilute a few drops of peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil in water and spray it around the areas you want to protect. Remember to reapply the spray every few days to maintain its effectiveness.
4. Seal Cracks and Openings
Bees can find their way into your house through small cracks and openings. Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or holes, and seal them properly. Pay special attention to windows, doors, and vents. By eliminating their entry points, you can prevent bees from entering your home.
5. Keep Food and Trash Covered
Bees are highly attracted to food and garbage. To avoid attracting them, make sure all your food is properly covered, especially when eating outside. Keep your garbage cans tightly closed and regularly clean them to minimize any lingering food odors.
6. Reduce Excessive Moisture
Bees need water to survive, and they are attracted to sources of moisture. If you have any leaks, standing water, or puddles around your property, fix them promptly. By reducing excessive moisture, you can make your surroundings less appealing to bees.
7. Install Bee Traps
Bee traps are effective in capturing and relocating bees safely. You can either purchase bee traps online or make your own. To make a homemade bee trap, cut a plastic bottle in half, fill the bottom half with a sweet liquid like sugar water or soda, then place the top half inverted into the bottom half. Bees will be lured in by the sweetness and won’t be able to escape.
8. Avoid Wearing Bright Colors
As mentioned earlier, bees are attracted to bright colors. When spending time outdoors, avoid wearing bright-colored clothing, especially floral prints. Instead, opt for light-colored clothing, as bees are less likely to be drawn to them.
9. Create a Bee-Friendly Garden Away from Your House
If you’re passionate about conserving bees and want to attract them, create a designated bee-friendly garden away from your living area. Plant a variety of flowers known to attract bees, such as lavender, sunflowers, and wildflowers. This will provide bees with a dedicated space to thrive without encroaching on your home.
10. Hang Wasp Repellent Bags
Many wasp repellent bags on the market, such as faux wasp nests or fabric bags coated in natural deterrents, can also repel bees. Hang these bags around your outdoor areas to deter bees from coming close. Ensure you place them near potential nesting spots or areas where bees are commonly found.
11. Place Fake Predators
Bees have natural instincts to avoid predators. By strategically placing fake predators, such as rubber snakes or plastic owls, around your property, you can create a deterrent for bees. The movement and resemblance to real predators can make bees think twice before invading your space.
12. Provide Alternative Water Sources
As mentioned earlier, bees are attracted to water sources. By providing them with an alternative water source away from your house, you can redirect their attention elsewhere. Set up a small birdbath or shallow dish filled with water and pebbles. Be sure to keep it regularly filled to prevent bees from searching for water nearby.
13. Consult a Beekeeper
If you have a persistent bee problem that doesn’t seem to go away, it might be best to consult a local beekeeper. They have the knowledge and experience to safely relocate bees without harming them. A beekeeper can assess the situation and provide professional advice and assistance.
Conclusion
Keeping bees away from your house doesn’t have to involve harmful chemicals or inhumane methods. By implementing these 13 natural and easy tips, you can create an environment that deters bees from invading your personal space. Remember, bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem, so it’s important to coexist with them in a respectful and safe manner.
My 2 Cents
Protecting yourself and your home from unwanted bees doesn’t mean you have to harm them. There are plenty of natural and human-friendly methods you can use to deter bees from your property. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can maintain a bee-free zone while still respecting the vital role these creatures play in our ecosystem. Be proactive and create a bee-friendly environment that benefits both humans and bees alike.
