The relationship between plants in the mint genus, Mentha, and bees is often misunderstood, leading to a common query about whether mint acts as a natural deterrent. Many people assume the plant’s strong, pungent aroma automatically repels all insects, including pollinators. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as the effect depends heavily on the form of the mint and the specific context of its use. This article will explore the evidence, examining mint’s chemical properties and the nuanced responses of various bee species.
Mint’s Effectiveness Against Bees
Mint, particularly in its concentrated essential oil form, is frequently cited as a mild deterrent against various flying insects, but its efficacy against bees is highly variable and often overstated. Unlike many common garden pests, bees do not consistently avoid mint plants. In fact, many beekeepers and gardeners report that when mint plants flower, they become highly attractive foraging sources for honeybees and bumblebees.
The strong scent of mint may deter a foraging bee from landing on a specific spot, especially if the aroma is overpowering, but this is a temporary displacement, not a true repellent effect. Scientific research suggests that when mint is diluted or offered as a nectar source, bees may be curious about it or even actively attracted to it. Peppermint-infused sugar syrup has even been used by some beekeepers to stimulate feeding and support colony health. Therefore, a flowering mint plant should not be expected to keep bees away from the area entirely.
The Active Compounds in Mint
The intense scent associated with mint comes from its volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are stored in tiny glandular hairs on the plant’s leaves and stems. The primary compounds responsible for the powerful aroma are menthol and menthone, especially in Mentha piperita (peppermint). Other compounds like pulegone and limonene also contribute to the overall chemical profile.
These VOCs interfere with an insect’s chemoreceptors, giving mint its reputation as a deterrent. Bees rely on these chemical sensors to navigate and locate floral resources. A sudden, intense burst of a non-floral compound like menthol can disrupt their ability to effectively “smell” their environment, as menthol is known to have repellent properties against various pests, such as mites and mosquitoes.
Variation Between Mint and Bee Types
Deterrence is highly dependent on the particular mint species and the type of bee involved. Not all mint varieties contain the same concentration of active compounds, leading to a gradient of effects. Peppermint, with its high menthol content, is considered to possess the strongest repellent potential.
In contrast, other members of the mint family, such as spearmint (Mentha spicata) or various mountain mints (Pycnanthemum species), are widely recognized as excellent pollinator attractants. Mountain mints are noted for drawing in a high diversity and volume of bees and other beneficial insects when they are in bloom. Different bee species, such as the common honeybee or a solitary mason bee, can also exhibit varying levels of sensitivity to the same chemical compound.
Using Mint as a Repellent
To use mint to create an avoidance barrier, the most effective method involves using concentrated essential oils rather than planting the herb itself. Live mint plants are minimally effective as a localized deterrent, and when flowering, they may actually increase bee activity. Essential oils, specifically peppermint oil, can be diluted in water and sprayed onto surfaces or applied to cotton balls to create a potent scent barrier.
This method works by releasing a high concentration of VOCs that overpower the area, making it less appealing for bees to linger. When using concentrated oils, it is important to apply them away from beehives and ensure they are properly diluted to prevent negative environmental effects. For general bee avoidance, alternatives like citronella, lemongrass, or cinnamon often provide a more reliable deterrent effect than low-concentration mint.