Humane Methods to Keep Bees Away from Your Patio Without Sprays or Oils

Backyard barbecues are popular for their delicious food and sunny weather, but they can attract bees looking for sweet treats. Bees, known for their role in honey production, can quickly swarm around sugary items like lemonade or barbecue sauce once a scout bee discovers them. David Burrows, founder of Arkearth, a nonprofit dedicated to bee conservation, explains that a single scout can lead many bees to your table. To manage bees without harming them, as they pollinate about 85% of our crops, consider using natural deterrents like herbs such as mint, thyme, basil, and citronella, which can repel carpenter bees.