Ground bees, also known as mining or digger bees, are non-aggressive solitary bees that nest in the ground. They’re most active during spring and summer, playing an important role as pollinators. However, their underground nests can be a nuisance, especially in lawns and gardens. If you’re dealing with ground bees, there are several natural ways to remove them and prevent them from coming back.
What Are Ground Bees?
Ground bees are a group of solitary bees that dig their nests in sandy, well-drained soil. Common types include leafcutter, sweat, mason, and plasterer bees. Unlike honeybees or wasps, they don’t have colonies to protect, making them less aggressive. They’re typically small, hairy, and often have yellow or metallic-colored stripes.
How to Identify Ground Bees
Look for small mounds of dirt with a pencil-sized hole at the top—these are the nests. Ground bees prefer areas with sparse vegetation, so their nests often appear in lawns or garden beds. You might see several nests grouped together, as each female bee digs her own. Ground bees are fast and agile fliers, and although they resemble honeybees, they tend to be hairier and rounder.
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Ground Bees
If you don’t want to use chemicals, here are some natural methods to get rid of ground bees:
- Cover Nesting Holes
Place heavy objects like bricks or rocks over the nesting holes to prevent the bees from entering or exiting their burrows. - Soak Your Lawn
Ground bees prefer dry, sandy soil. Water your lawn regularly to make the area less inviting for nesting. - Use Natural Plant Repellents
Plants like mint, eucalyptus, and citronella can deter bees. You can also use essential oils (peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus) diluted with water in a spray bottle and apply it around the nest. - Try Garlic or Cinnamon
Garlic is a natural repellent—crush garlic cloves in water, let it sit, and then spray it around the nest. Cinnamon also works as a deterrent—sprinkle it around the nest entrance to encourage bees to relocate. - Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts vinegar and water, and spray it into the nest entrance. The acidity of vinegar can drive bees away. - Soapy Water
A simple mix of dish soap and water, poured into the nest entrance, can discourage bees, especially when done in the evening when they’re less active. - Diatomaceous Earth
This natural powder, made from fossilized algae, can harm bees by dehydrating them. Sprinkle it around the nest entrance to help get rid of them.
Should You Leave Ground Bees Alone?
While ground bees might seem like a nuisance, they’re important for your garden and the environment. They help pollinate plants, flowers, and crops, and their digging helps aerate the soil. If they’re not causing major problems, consider leaving them be. They usually adjust their flight patterns to avoid areas with a lot of foot traffic.
How to Prevent Ground Bees from Returning
To keep ground bees from coming back, make your yard less attractive to them. Regularly water your lawn and fill in any bare patches with grass or groundcovers. Add mulch or compost to garden beds to make it harder for bees to dig. You can also plant bee-repelling plants like mint and eucalyptus around the perimeter of your yard. Lastly, monitor your yard in early spring for signs of nesting and take action before they become a problem.
With these natural strategies, you can safely manage ground bees and enjoy a bee-friendly, pest-free garden.
