What are sweat bees?
Sweat Bees are from the genus name Halictus, meaning”to gather” or “to assemble.” When it comes to bees, sweat bees stand alone. They are solitary insects not having a colony to rely on. They are relatively small at 3 to 10 mm (0.12 to 0.40 in) long and come in various black or metallic color – from bright green to yellow.
Sweat Bees got their names because they are attracted to human sweat. Although, it’s not really the sweat in as much as the salt that humans secret while sweating that gives them necessary minerals that nectar fails to do.
Are you sure you want to kill sweat bees?
Before you call the exterminator or use harsh pesticides to kill your sweat bees, you might want to know a little about them.
Sweat bees are indiscriminate pollinators. In fact, their entire existence is to pollinate each and every flower they see making them a favorite for fruit and vegetable farmers. They are non-aggressive in nature, and if one stings, it’s usually the female who feels trapped.
Most gardeners try to attract sweat bees rather than deter them, but they can become a nuisance when an infestation occurs.
Steps you can take to repel sweat bees
If you want to keep sweat bees around for your garden but aren’t too keen on them enjoying you while you sunbathe or host that family barbeque, some repellents will help keep everyone happy.
1. Sweat Bees in your Garden
- First, sweat bees nest in the ground enjoying places with rotting wood; therefore, keeping your yard free and clear of debris is a deterrent for sweat bees as well as other unwanted guests such as chiggers and aphids.
- Keep the grounds covered. Filling in flower beds with mulch and including herbs that repel insects, such as mint, will help keep the sweat bees under control.
- Make sure there are no burrows or holes on your property that sweat bees can nest in.
2. Keep sweat bees off the patio
Make sure there is airflow. If your yard isn’t set up for natural breezes, you may wish to think about investing in some fans – sweat bees don’t want to be blown away. Many outside decks now have ceiling fans that will give enough of a breeze to keep sweat bees at bay. If you’re not lucky enough to have an overhead fan, putting one in will require an electrition to run power to the area and install the unit. Many of us don’t have the money for such an expense. If you fall into this category, you may wish to opt for a more economical option. Thankfully there are many alternatives that don’t fall into the white standing fan that many of us grew up with. Not only are they an eyesore, but they’re noisy. The Lasko Oscillating Tower Fan is a sleek addition to any patio.
1. Lasko Oscillating Tower Fan
Lasko Oscillating Tower Fan
- For outdoor use. This fan is weather-resistant with UV protection.
- Adjustable – direct it wherever you need. With 4 speeds, you can adjust the speed as needed.
- Manual controls allow you to switch speeds.
- Easy to use everywhere with the 10-foot power cord.
- Easy assembly, no tools required.
- 12.78” L x 12.78” W x 41.59” H and weighs 15.11 lbs.
- 2-year limited manufacturer’s warranty
3. Scents that repel sweat bees
Scents can also repel sweat bees such as citronella candles. Other fragrances which repel sweat bees can be used on furniture or in the form of a diffuser, such as peppermint oils, lavender oils, lemon oils, olive oil, vegetable oil, and lime.
- Citronella
- peppermint oils
- lavender oils
- lemon oils
- olive oils
- vegetable oils
- lime oils
When using oils to repel sweat bees on your patio, you may wish to use a diffuser made for large areas and blend with the outside. We’ve found this sleek zen diffuser for large rooms that will blend in with the outdoors, making your outdoor experience one of relaxation. It even comes with a starter set of oils.
1. Gratia Naturals Difusser
Gratia Naturals Diffuser
- Zen design
- six relaxing sounds
- Comes with a starter oil set
- Seven lights
- Quiet
- cool mist humidifier
- A variety of wood – dark brown, light brown, light oak
How to keep sweat bees off of you
Unfortunately, sweat bees not only enjoy your garden and patio, but they also enjoy you. They got their name for sapping up your sweat. While that does sound gross, they need the salt in our sweat. Some of us may not mind feeding these insects, and while they’re usually harmless, if you disturb them, like all other bees, they will sting. Thankfully their sting will hurt less than any other type of bee, but nonetheless, it will hurt. Plus, if you’re allergic to bee stings, you will be allergic to sweat bees. If you’re one that doesn’t want to run the risk of being stung, here are a few steps you can take to keep them off you.
Steps to take to keep sweat bees off of you
- Shower after activities such as working out, mowing, etc.
- Use a bug repellent
- Cover up – limiting the amount of skin you’re exposing will make it difficult for sweat bees.
Conclusion
Sweat bees are an essential asset to any garden. They are super indiscriminate pollinators, so you may not want to eliminate them altogether. Instead of using harsh chemicals, take some steps to keep them away from areas where you’re entertaining or relaxing. Use fans and oils that repel. Fill unnecessary holes where they can burrow with repellents such as mint. Take showers after working out or in the yard. Make sure you keep your skin covered. In doing these steps, you can find it easy to coexist with these beneficial insects.