To get rid of carpenter bees effectively, follow these key steps:
1. Apply Insecticides
- Spray a residual insecticide like Cyzmic CS, Demon WP, or FenvaStar EcoCap on wood surfaces where carpenter bees bore holes, typically on the underside of wooden structures such as siding, soffits, decks, and window frames. Spray twice in spring at 3-4 week intervals for best results
- For severe infestations, repeat treatments every two weeks and apply insecticidal dust (e.g., Tempo Dust, D-Fense Dust) directly into carpenter bee holes to kill adults and larvae
- The best time to apply insecticide is at dusk when bees are inside the tunnels
2. Use Insecticidal Dust in Nests
- Use a hand duster to apply insecticidal dust deep into the bee tunnels to eradicate larvae and prevent reproduction
3. Seal and Plug Holes
- After treating the bees, wait 24 hours then plug the holes with wood putty or caulk to prevent new bees from entering or exiting. Do not seal holes before eliminating bees, or they will drill new exits
4. Use Natural Repellents and Deterrents
- Spray wood with citrus or almond oil mixtures to repel carpenter bees, as they dislike these scents. Repeat applications throughout spring to discourage nesting
- Playing loud music or hanging wind chimes near nests can disrupt bees and encourage them to relocate
- Fake wasp nests (e.g., inflated paper bags) may deter carpenter bees from nesting nearby
5. Mechanical Removal
- Vacuuming bees out of shallow, new nests at dusk can remove adults, but larvae remain, so follow up with sealing and treatment
6. Prevention Tips
- Use hardwood or pressure-treated wood for outdoor structures, as carpenter bees prefer soft, weathered wood
- Paint or varnish exposed wood regularly, since painted wood is less attractive to carpenter bees
- Fill cracks and gaps in wood to reduce nesting sites
- Remove and replace heavily damaged wood to eliminate established nests
When to Call Professionals
- If you have a large infestation (more than a dozen holes) or nests in hard-to-reach areas, professional pest control services are recommended for safe and effective treatment
By combining insecticide treatments, sealing holes, natural repellents, and preventive maintenance, you can effectively get rid of carpenter bees and protect your wooden structures from future damage
