With over 4,000 species of bees native to the United States, New Jersey is home to roughly
350 of them. These bees are crucial to the world's food supply as they pollinate various fruits, vegetables, crops, and more.
But this doesn't mean you want bees in or around your home.
If bees build nests in your home, the weight can cause insulation, sheetrock, and wood to tear or break.
Although
professional pest removal services are the safest and most effective way to prevent unwanted visitors, you can try several DIY bee removal methods to keep bees away.
1. Vinegar Solution
Does vinegar keep bees away? It may prove useful.
Instead of using chemicals, vinegar doesn't contain harsh substances of any kind and is harmless to the majority of plants.
To make a DIY bee repellant spray, all you need is equal parts vinegar and water. Mix them together in a spray bottle and spray around areas where you notice bees.
2. Plants
Other home remedies to keep bees away include plants. You can use different plants to keep bees away. There are also plants that attract bees, so be mindful when planting.
For example, bees are drawn to the nectar inside plants that flower. This includes blue, red, yellow, or purple flowering plants, as they're the most appealing. If you're looking to avoid the number of bees around your home, avoid planting these types of shrubs and plants.
You can also keep bees away from your home by using certain plants. These plants include mint, citronella, and eucalyptus. These scents are off putting to bees and may work as a natural bee repellant.
3. Move the Hive (Professionally)
In some instances, you can have a bee hive professionally moved. You should never attempt this yourself, and you'll need a pest control company to confirm that the hive does not contain
carpenter bees, wasps, or hornets.
No matter what type of nest you find, you should always hire a professional pest removal service to inspect and remove it to avoid dangerous stings.
4. Keep Food Containers Closed
When you're eating outside, always keep food and drink containers closed. Bees are drawn to nectar, and sugary, sweet food and drink attract them. Keep lids on your trash cans and always clean up immediately after you have a BBQ.
5. Essential Oils and Insect Repellants
You can try various essential oils and insect repellants sold online or at the drugstore. Look for natural insect repellants to avoid spraying yourself or your family with chemicals, but keep in mind that these products won't prevent bees from coming near your home, just your person.
Some people have had good luck repelling bees by using essential oils. Popular oils include lemongrass, eucalyptus, citronella, and peppermint.
You can mix essential oils with witch hazel and water. For example, mix water with a few drops of an essential oil and put it in a roller ball or spray bottle.
But always use essential oils that are
safe for your skin. If you have children and are unsure, ask their pediatrician.
Keep Bees Away
Now that you know how to keep bees away naturally, you can try the tips and tricks outlined in this article. It's important to remember that DIY methods might not work for everyone, and a professional pest removal service can work to keep you and your family safe from stinging insects and other pests.
Serene Property Services is equipped to keep bees away from your home. We offer a myriad of residential and commercial pest removal services in Sussex County, NJ, and the surrounding areas, including Warwick, NY.
Contact us today to see how we can help.
