Citrus Oil for Carpenter Bees: A Natural Repellent

As spring arrives, homeowners start noticing large black and yellow bees hovering around wooden decks, eaves, and siding These are carpenter bees, preparing to bore holes for nesting Their wood damaging behavior often leads homeowners to seek ways to repel them naturally without harming the environment. This is where citrus oil can help.

Citrus oil extracted from oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits has natural insecticidal properties that deter carpenter bees. It provides a safe, eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical treatments. Read on to learn more about using citrus oil as an effective carpenter bee repellent.

Why Citrus Oil Repels Carpenter Bees

Citrus fruits contain limonene, a compound in the rind oil that is toxic to some insects but harmless to humans. It confuses carpenter bee senses so they avoid treated areas.

Benefits of citrus oil:

• Repellent effect discourages carpenter bees from drilling nest holes.

• Non-toxic and safe for use around pets and family when diluted properly.

• Made from natural ingredients unlike chemical pesticides.

• Pleasant citrus aroma for users compared to harsh smells.

• Can be applied directly onto infested wood surfaces.

• Also repels other wood boring pests like termites and beetles.

Both homemade citrus sprays and commercial citrus oil products harness these insect repelling properties. They provide natural carpenter bee control without environmental impact.

Creating Homemade Citrus Oil Spray

With some simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make an effective citrus repellent spray at home:

Ingredients:

• Peels from several lemons, oranges or other citrus fruits
• Water to boil peels
• Strainer
• Spray bottle
• Optional: Essential oils like peppermint, cloves or eucalyptus

Steps:

1. Wash and peel the citrus fruits. Place peels in a pot of water.

2. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 15-20 minutes to extract the oils.

3. Strain the liquid into a spray bottle. Add several drops of essential oils if desired.

4. Label bottle and store out of sunlight until ready to use.

5. Shake well before spraying directly onto carpenter bee holes or areas where they gather.

Reapply every few days during peak activity. The natural oil will deter bees from returning to treated spots.

Purchasing Citrus Oil Products

For those short on time, there are also ready-made citrus oil insecticides you can buy:

• Citro Bugguard uses orange peel extract mixed with water for a natural carpenter bee spray.

• Wondercide products combine cedar oil and citrus for an effective bee repellent and wood protector.

• Best Bee Brothers citrus spray features orange peel oil with added rosemary and lemongrass oils.

Always check product labels and instructions carefully before use. Test on a small area first.

Applying Citrus Oil Effectively

Here are some tips for maximizing citrus oil as a carpenter bee repellent:

• Target entrances holes directly with spray or saturated cotton balls.

• Coat surrounding wood surfaces, especially soffits, trim, decks and fences vulnerable to damage.

• Reapply every few days during peak bee activity in spring.

• Spray in the early morning or evening when most carpenter bees are in their nest.

• Combine with sealing holes, trap boxes and general bee-proofing efforts.

• Store homemade mixtures away from direct light and heat to preserve potency.

Citrus oil is not a miracle cure-all. But it can provide a much safer, environmentally friendly option for repelling carpenter bees without toxic chemicals.

Using Citrus Oil Safely

Despite being natural, citrus oil still requires safe handling:

• Test on a small hidden area first to check for any unintended damage or discoloration to wood finishes.

• Read and follow label directions carefully for commercial products.

• Avoid spraying into eyes or mouth. Wear protective gloves and eyewear.

• Keep spray mixtures sealed and out of reach of children.

• Spot treat only where bees are actively nesting rather than wide applications.

With proper precautions, citrus oil lets you drive away those destructive carpenter bees naturally!

When to Call a Professional

If carpenter bee damage persists despite using citrus oil, don’t hesitate to call a pest control professional. They have industrial-strength products and treatment methods to eliminate infestations and prevent future bee invasions. Together with citrus oil sprays, professional pest control can help protect your wood structures from recurring carpenter bee headaches.