5 Plants That Repel Bees and Wasps

While we all know that bees and wasps are pollinators, that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice safety in your garden or backyard. Fortunately, making a few alterations to your existing gardens or flower beds can help repel these pests and provide a more enjoyable experience in the outdoors. This article will look at five plants that repel bees and wasps; however, professional removal is recommended if you have a problem with these pests already. 

Basil 

For Oklahomans that want to focus on an herb garden, basil is likely one of the first herbs that should be considered. Not only does basil taste great on a variety of foods, but the fragrance can also deter bees and wasps. Basil needs around 6 to 8 hours of full sun each day and grows excellent in excessive heat. These factors make it a great choice for Oklahoma gardens. However, care should be taken to ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid root rot that could kill the plant. 

Mint 

As another popular herb option, mint makes a great addition to water or mixed drinks. While mint can provide a cooling effect, they are a phenomenal deterrent for various stinging pests. Mint plants can grow at a rapid pace. For this reason, it is essential to monitor them to avoid excessive growth that could quickly overtake a garden. For the best growth, mint needs to be planted in full sun; however, it can handle partial shade if the gardener keeps a close eye on the plant. Mint should be trimmed regularly to avoid potential overgrowth. 

Geraniums 

For Oklahoma residents with a green thumb, a range of flowers can help ward off bees and wasps. Geraniums are beautiful, but they also have unique characteristics that help further the support they can provide against bees and wasps. For example, bees cannot see red. So, red geraniums are undetectable by them. These flowers also contain low amounts of pollen, making them even more unattractive to stinging pests.  

Marigolds 

Certain flower types can make a massive impact on a garden. For Oklahomans interested in boosting their curb appeal while also keeping bees and wasps away, marigolds may be an attractive option. Although this flower can still attract a small number of nectar-seeking honeybees, wasps find it unattractive due to its smell. These flowers are incredibly hardy and don’t require a lot of effort to maintain. This also makes them an excellent option for a beginner. 

Citronella 

While citronella is widely known for its ability to deter mosquitoes, it can also provide an offensive smell that can repel bees and wasps. This plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it incredibly versatile. The most important consideration is that the plant’s soil should be well-drained, and it will prefer around six hours of sunlight each day to thrive. For households that constantly struggle with bees, wasps, or mosquitoes, planting citronella is a cost-effective way to deter them.