Supporting Bees Naturally

Bees are essential pollinators for your garden and the environment—but they’re sensitive to synthetic chemicals. That’s why essential oils can be a great ally when used responsibly to catch bee swarms.

What Is a Bee Swarm?

A bee swarm is a natural and vital part of a honeybee colony’s lifecycle. It occurs when a hive becomes overcrowded, and about half the bees—including the old queen—leave the original hive to find a new home. Swarming typically happens in the spring or early summer when resources are abundant and the colony is thriving.

During a swarm:

• Bees temporarily cluster on a tree branch, fence, or surface while scout bees search for a suitable new hive location.

• The cluster can stay in place for a few hours to a couple of days.

• Contrary to how it may look, swarming bees are not aggressive—they’re actually at their most docile, as they’re focused on relocating and are not protecting brood or honey stores.

  
  

Using Lemongrass Oil to Attract Swarms

Beekeepers often use lemongrass essential oil as a natural lure for swarms. Why? Lemongrass oil mimics some of the pheromones produced by honeybees, particularly those that scout bees use to mark a location as safe and attractive.

How to use it:

• Place a few drops of lemongrass oil on a cotton ball or small piece of paper towel.

• Tuck it into a bait hive or swarm trap—ideally a box about the size of a standard hive body.

• Some beekeepers rub a diluted mixture of lemongrass oil inside the hive entrance to simulate an active hive.

Pro tip: Only use a small amount—too much scent can overwhelm or confuse the bees.

Why Swarm Lures Matter

Offering a swarm-friendly space in your yard or farm is a great way to:

• Help bees find a safe home.

• Reduce the chances of a swarm moving into unwanted places (like house walls or sheds).

• Support local pollinators and healthy ecosystems.

Plus, if you're a beekeeper or aspiring to become one, capturing a swarm is a natural and rewarding way to start or expand your apiary—without ordering bees!

How to use essential oils with Bees:

• Lemongrass oil mimics the pheromones of scout bees and can be used to help attract swarms to a hive box or new location.

• Add 1–2 drops of lemongrass essential oil to a cotton ball and place it inside an empty hive box to encourage colony relocation.

• Peppermint oil can help deter hive pests like mites—but use sparingly and away from the hive entrance, as strong scents can be overwhelming to bees.

⚠️ Note: Always use essential oils outside the hive or in extremely diluted amounts—bees have highly sensitive nervous systems.