What Are Ground Bees?

Ground bees, also called mining or digger bees, are a varied group of solitary bees that nest in the ground. Common types of ground bees include leafcutter, sweat, mason, cellophane, and plasterer bees. Unlike their better-known relatives (honeybees and wasps), ground bees are generally non-aggressive because they don’t have a hive to defend.

Ground bees prefer digging in sandy, well-drained soil, which makes lawns, gardens, and grassy yards ideal nesting sites. These bees are most active in early spring and summer when they emerge from their underground nests to mate and forage for nectar and pollen. They play an important role in the ecosystem as pollinators, but they can also wreak havoc on grass lawns when their nests become home to colonies of aggressive wasps that nest in the ground.

How to Identify Ground Bees

Proper identification of ground bees is crucial before taking any action because different types of bees respond differently to elimination techniques. Anthill-like nests popping up across your lawn are a telltale sign of ground bees. Their nests look like small mounds of soil with a single pencil-sized hole at the top. Since ground bees are solitary and don’t live in colonies, each female digs her own nest. Still, you will likely see many nests clustered together in a small area.

You can also identify ground bees by their appearance. They are small to medium-sized, measuring one-fourth to half an inch long, with yellow and black stripes similar to those of honeybees. However, ground bees are usually hairier and more rotund. Some species also appear in shades of metallic green or blue. Ground bees are fast and agile fliers, often seen hovering near the ground as they search for nests or forage for nectar.

If you cannot confidently identify the type of bee you are dealing with or you have a severe infestation, professional assistance may be the best course of action.

How to Get Rid of Ground Bees Naturally

Discover natural methods to redirect ground bees, safely and effectively, away from attractive nesting spots.

1. Cover Nesting Holes

Use heavy items such as bricks and rocks to block nesting holes. It will discourage ground bees from returning to their established burrows. This method also keeps current ground bees inside the nest from reaching the surface. Once the insects realize they can’t go in or out, they’ll likely search for other areas to create nests.

2. Soak the Lawn

Ground bees thrive in dry, sandy soil with sparse vegetation, such as grass and weeds. Therefore, one effective way to naturally deter ground bees is to keep your lawn moist through regular watering or the use of sprinkler systems. In hot, sunny climates, you may need to water your lawn multiple times to see results and make the area less hospitable for nesting bees.

3. Use Natural Plant Repellents

Certain plants, such as mint, eucalyptus, and citronella, are known to repel bees. Planting these around the areas where ground bees nest can encourage them to move elsewhere. Alternatively, homeowners can repel bees using essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus. Mix water with a few drops of the essential oils in a spray bottle, and spray the solution around the nesting area.

4. Go with Garlic or Cinnamon

Garlic is another natural repellent. Crush garlic cloves in warm water. Let the mixture sit for a few hours before straining and spraying it around the nest. Sprinkling cinnamon around the nest can also be an effective deterrent. Bees dislike the strong smell and will often relocate if cinnamon is applied consistently over several days.

5. Try a Vinegar Solution

Mixing vinegar and water and spraying the solution into the nest entrance can deter ground bees. The acidity of the vinegar is unpleasant for the bees, encouraging them to find a new nesting site.

6. Use Soapy Water

A dish soap and water mixture can effectively and naturally discourage ground bees. Pour the solution into the nest entrance in the evening, when bees are less active.

7. Apply Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. When ground bees come into contact with diatomaceous earth, the microscopic, sharp particles within the powder abrade their exoskeletons, causing dehydration and ultimately leading to death. It’s safe for humans and pets but harmful to insects. Sprinkle the powder directly around the nest entrance. As the bees move in and out, they will come into contact with the DE, which begins to take effect.

Leaving Ground Bees Alone

While it might seem like a nuisance to have ground bees nesting in your yard, they usually pose little threat. Ground bees are solitary and less aggressive than other bees. Maryland beekeeper Darrelynne Strother says, “Removal is optional and usually depends on where they are located in the ground,” such as near an entrance where the public is. Last year, she left two nesting areas alone and noticed that the ground bees typically adjusted their flight patterns to avoid areas with frequent foot traffic.

By leaving them undisturbed, you contribute to the health and productivity of your garden and the broader ecosystem. They play a vital role in pollinating plants, flowers, and crops. Additionally, as ground bees dig their nests, they help aerate the soil, thereby improving its structure and promoting healthier plant growth. They also help control pest populations by preying on harmful insects and their larvae.

How to Prevent Ground Bees from Returning

To prevent ground bees from making a return visit, make your yard less inviting for nesting. According to beekeeper Darrelynne Strother, apply ground cinnamon regularly in previously infested areas. This method has proven to be effective as none of last year's nests resurfaced after the season.

Since ground bees prefer dry, sandy, or loose soil, one of the most effective strategies is to keep the soil well-watered. Regularly irrigating your lawn and garden can deter ground bees from establishing nests. Maintaining a healthy, dense lawn with thick grass cover can make it difficult for ground bees to find suitable nesting sites.

Apply a thick layer of mulch or compost to garden beds to discourage bees from burrowing.

Address any bare patches in your yard where ground bees are more likely to nest. Reseed or plant groundcovers in these areas to create a less inviting environment. You can also introduce bee-repelling plants like mint, eucalyptus, or citronella around the perimeter of your yard. Regularly inspecting your yard for early signs of nesting activity in the spring can also help you take quick action before a full infestation occurs.