How to Get Rid of a Bee's Nest in the Ground

Pollination in progress

Some varieties of bees form nests in the ground for propagation. These nests can occur on the lawn or in gardens. In some cases, people and bees can coexist quite well without interference. At other times, fear of stings or simply the inability to use a portion of the yard causes homeowners to address the issue. There has been a marked decrease in the bee population in recent years due to increased pesticide use. Ground bees are prolific pollinators, according to the Ohio State University Extension Service, so their benefit far outweighs the inconvenience of having underground nests. Removing the bees humanely should be your first choice.

Things You'll Need

• Long-sleeved shirt and pants Shoes and socks Gloves Protective face and head covering Duct tape Shovel Wheelbarrow Pesticide dust

Instructions

How to Get Rid of a Bee's Nest in the Ground

1. Gather as much information as possible about the type of bee occupying the ground nest on your property. See additional resources to help identify which type of bee inhabits your yard.

2. Search your local phone book or perform an Internet search for beekeepers. Almost every state has a beekeepers association with Master Beekeepers who can help you decide a course of action. Schedule a visit with a trained professional beekeeper if possible.

3. Dress from head to toe in clothing to protect from possible bee stings. Secure sleeves and pant legs with duct tape. Wear complete head and face coverings as well.

4. Carefully dig around the outside of the nest at night. Dig deep, since many bees create nests a few feet beneath the surface. Lift the intact hive into a wheelbarrow and transport it to a portion of the yard with less traffic. Dig a hole and place the hive into the ground. Consult your local beekeeper for specific hive information and bee behavior patterns before performing this step.

5. Choose carbaryl, diazinon or bendiocarb dusting powder as an absolute last resort to kill the bees. These dusts work best to remove the nest, since the bees come in contact with the dust and return with it to the hive. According to the Ohio State University Extension Service, dust pesticides won't soak into the soil.

Tips & Warnings

• Removing the hive is the most humane way to address a bee infestation without killing the bees. In some cases, you'll have to wait until the end of the summer season to remove the nests, but this should help prevent a recurrence the following year.

References

• The Ohio State University Extension