- Unlike regular or bumble bees, wood bees don't live in colonies or large hives. Instead, individual bees bore holes into unpainted wood decks, porches and furniture. Female wood bees lay eggs in chambers they create inside the wood. Male wood bees are not able to sting. Females only attack if provoked, such as when swatted at in an attempt to kill them. Over time, large populations of the insects damage wooden structures, affecting their integrity by creating many small holes. The bees are intimidating because they often hover protectively around their homes instead of moving about the yard.
- Commercial insecticide sprays designed to kill wasps also kill wood bees. Diatomaceous earth is also a natural, effective wood bee killer. It acts as a desiccant, pulling moisture out of an adult bee or larva's body and killing it. Diatomaceous earth has low toxicity, so it is safer to use around pets and children than chemical options. Use a combination of insecticide sprays and diatomaceous earth to eliminate wood bees in the yard.
- Start killing wood bees by putting on a breathing mask and eye protection. Avoid breathing in the insecticide spray and diatomaceous earth as they cause eye and respiratory irritation. Use the insecticide to kill any wood bees guarding their nests. After they are gone, tap diatomaceous earth into the holes in a deck or wooden furniture to kill any bees or larvae inside. If the hole goes up into wood, use a puffing device to blow the powder inside. Puffers are available for purchase at nurseries and home improvement stores.
- There is a risk of being stung when killing wood bees. Wear long sleeves, pants, gloves and a hat to reduce the amount of exposed skin. Keep children and pets inside while working. After applying the diatomaceous earth, wait a week. If bees do not reappear, plug the holes in the wood. If they do return, use the spray and the diatomaceous earth again and wait another week. Plugging the holes prevents new wood bees from moving into the tunnels.
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