Bee And Wasp Repellent

Updated: 20th April 2021

The bee friendly way to deter bees and wasps without harming them

I’m sometimes asked about my recommendations for a bee and wasp repellent that can be used without causing harm to bees and other pollinators.

There are a number of products available, including very effective natural based ingredients that can be used on the skin, and elsewhere.

Deet-free insect repellents

For use on the skin:

Wasp nests deterrents

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You can deter wasps from making a nest with a Waspinator.

Waspinators mimic wasp nests, discouraging actual wasps from making a nest (they're very territorial).

Other Natural Bee And Wasp Repellent Ingredients You Can Try

Personally, I have never tried any of the following, for the simple reason that I have never wanted to repel bees and wasps, but I understand the following might work:

bumble bee flying toward raspberry flower

Do not spray these mixtures directly at bees or wasps, and be sure the surface where you are spraying can tolerate the mixture:

Garlic
Crush garlic and add it to water. Spray around the area where you wish to deter bees and wasps.
Coin And Bag Method
It is said that a plastic transparent bag with a shiny coin inside, then filled with water and suspended from in the air close to an area where wasps might be a problem, helps to deter wasps. Apparently, this causes subtle, high pitched vibration waves the wasps can detect, but humans cannot. The wasps are deterred by the vibrations. I have received feedback telling me this method is successful.
Aluminium Foil
Attach aluminium foil around eaves or structures where you wish to prevent wasps and bees making nests. Apparently, the reflection is disturbing to them and keeps them away. I have no idea whether or not it works - if you try it and find it is successful, please let me know (images would also be appreciated).

White Vinegar
Again, sprayed onto the area you wish to protect, it is said to help but, please be aware that vinegar can damage or kill plants.
Catnip Essential Oil
Create a spray with this to deter bees and wasps. I must admit, I'm surprised if this works. Bees love catnip (nepeta) and can't resist foraging on it. With regard to wasps, I have no idea.

Tea Tree Oil
I have no idea if it works, but some people do believe it to be effective, and it’s something you can try on your skin as long as you have no allergies to the ingredients.