Using certain plants is a natural and effective way to manage bee presence in specific outdoor areas. This approach gently guides bee activity away from spaces like patios, decks, or entryways. Understanding which plants deter bees helps create a more comfortable outdoor environment.
Why Use Plants to Deter Bees
Many individuals deter bees from certain areas to enhance the usability of outdoor living spaces. High bee traffic near a patio, pool, or dining area can be less relaxing. Concerns about accidental stings, especially for those with allergies or young children, often motivate finding natural solutions. Plants offer a way to manage bee presence without harsh chemical treatments that could harm beneficial pollinators.
Characteristics of Bee-Deterring Plants
Bee-deterring plants typically possess strong, often pungent, aromas that bees find unappealing. These powerful scents come from concentrated essential oils and chemical compounds within the plant’s foliage or flowers. Bees rely heavily on scent to locate nectar and pollen, so they avoid areas where strong odors mask attractive floral signals. Some plants also deter bees by having very little pollen or nectar, or by presenting flower structures that make access difficult.
Specific Plants That Deter Bees
Several plant species are recognized for their bee-deterring properties, largely due to their distinctive scents or flower characteristics.
Citronella
Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) is known for its strong, lemony fragrance. This scent, from the plant’s oils, effectively masks odors that attract bees. Citronella thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, often reaching a significant size, making it suitable for larger containers or garden beds where brushing its foliage releases the aroma.
Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) emits a potent scent that bees generally dislike. The menthol in peppermint acts as a natural deterrent. Peppermint grows vigorously and is best kept in containers to manage its spread, preferring partial shade to full sun with consistent moisture.
Geraniums
Certain varieties of geraniums, particularly red ones, effectively deter bees. Bees perceive red as black, making these flowers less visually appealing, and they also produce very little pollen or nectar. Geraniums are relatively low-maintenance, thriving in sunny spots and well-drained soil, whether planted in the ground or in pots.
Basil
Basil (Ocimum basilicum), a popular culinary herb, releases a strong aroma that bees find off-putting. This aromatic quality helps to keep bees away from areas where it is planted. Basil requires plenty of heat and sun for optimal growth and scent production.
Marigolds
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are known for their distinctive, pungent scent, which many insects, including bees, tend to avoid. While their vibrant colors might seem attractive, their odor and sometimes their flower structure (like double-petal varieties) can deter foraging bees. These hardy annuals prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) contains natural citronella oil, contributing to its strong citrusy scent that helps repel bees. It is best suited for containers, especially in cooler climates where it can be brought indoors during winter.
Strategic Placement for Effectiveness
Strategic placement of bee-deterring plants is important for maximizing effectiveness in specific outdoor areas. Positioning plants around seating areas, near entryways, or along a patio perimeter creates a localized zone bees are less likely to frequent. Grouping multiple plants amplifies their deterrent effect, as combined strong scents become more potent. Placing plants in containers offers flexibility, allowing them to be moved as needed, such as closer to an outdoor dining table. For areas like pools, creating a border of these plants helps establish a barrier.
Important Considerations
While using plants to deter bees offers a natural solution, remember the significant role bees play as pollinators in ecosystems. The goal of using these plants is to humanely redirect bee activity away from specific human-occupied spaces, not to eliminate them entirely. Plant effectiveness can vary depending on factors like planting density, specific variety, and local bee population. These plants may not provide a complete solution in all situations, especially if strong attractants like uncovered sugary drinks or food are present. Prioritize the well-being of bees by using deterrence methods responsibly.