Bee Keeping
Bee Keeping
Essential oils are increasingly being used as natural alternatives to chemical treatments in beekeeping. Here are some oils that are employed in beekeeping.
Attracting Bees
Lemongrass
Mimics the attractant pheromone bees release, making it useful for luring swarms into traps or new hives.
Repelling Pests and Mites
Promoting Hive Health
Tea tree Oil
Has antifungal and antibacterial properties, potentially helping against Chalkbrood disease.
Lavender Oil
May help control the growth of bacteria and spores associated with American Foulbrood disease.
Lemongrass and Spearmint Oil
Used in feeding stimulants to boost hive activity and overall health.
Research essential oils thoroughly before using them in beekeeping. Some oils can be harmful to bees if used incorrectly.
Research essential oils thoroughly before using them in beekeeping. Some oils can be harmful to bees if used incorrectly.
- Start with small amounts and dilute the oils as recommended.
- o Food grade Mineral Oil is sometimes used to dilute the essential oils. Used in grease patties for mite control, bees readily pick up the oil on their bodies, which disrupts the mites’ reproductive cycle. Mineral oil is also used in fogging applications to target mites hiding in hard-to-reach crevices.
- o Fractionated Coconut Oil: This lightweight carrier oil is sometimes used to dilute essential oils before applying them to hives or bees. It's favored for its lack of strong scent and tendency to solidify at room temperature, which makes it easier to handle.
