April 5, 2010
Hello, I live in Quantico VA, on my back deck these HUGE bees just hover and buzz and they scare me as well as my kids. I don’t know where they are coming from. How can I keep them off my deck so that we can sit outside? Is it true if you spray almond oil on the wood they will stay away? Will they do this all summer? I am really really scared of them…..what should/can I do????
As explained in our CARPENTER BEE CONTROL ARTICLE, these are most likely male and female bees. Females are typically looking for places to make nests this time of year. Males are usually seeking females. Both will tend to be active close to where nests already exist and as our article explains, the problem will get worse and worse from year to year.
At this point you should see if you have existing nests that need to be dusted as explained in our article. If no nests can be seen, spraying with CYPERMETHRIN will keep them away. Alternatively spraying with the NBS INSECT REPELLENT can work too. Cypermethrin is a true pesticide and will kill them if they try to make nests or linger too long on treated surfaces. NBS is only plant oils and works a repellent only and not a pesticide so it’s the safest option that can help. Forget Almond Oil as it tends to attract other insects like ants and roaches and many times will lead to far worse problems. If you’re looking for something organic, the NBS is the product to use.
Here are direct links to the information and products mentioned above:
Carpenter Bee Article: www.carpenterbees.com
Cypermethrin: www.bugspraycart.com/insecticide/liquid/viper-cypermethrin
NBS Repellent: https://www.bugspraycart.com/exempt/additive/nbs-paint-additive-16-oz
Give us a call if you still have questions.
Technical Support
1-800-877-7290
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