Carpenter bees are a relatively common problem in New York. Specifically, the Eastern carpenter bee is most active during the early spring and summer months, when the reproduction cycle begins. Carpenter bees are known for boring holes through wood and creating nests inside, which can be an eyesore for homeowners with wooden decks, siding, or other wooden structures that are affected.
By being proactive, homeowners can reduce their chances of experiencing a carpenter bee infestation on their property.
Avoid Untreated Wood on Your Property
While it’s true that carpenter bees are generally capable of boring through any type of wood, they much prefer untreated soft woods, including pressure treated wood that is often used in deck building. One possible way to deter carpenter bees from nesting in a wooden structure on your property is to make sure the structure is treated. For example, if you have a deck that needs stained or wood siding that needs painting, be sure to do so before the nesting season begins in early spring.
Try a Citrus Deterrent
Carpenter bees can also be deterred with citrus juices, including non-synthetic citrus and tea tree oils. You can make your own deterrent by simply boiling some citrus fruits in a shallow pot of water. Once the juice cools, transfer it to a bottle and apply liberally around any wooden structures on your property. This is a great, natural deterrent that can be very effective (and extremely inexpensive).
Know When to Call a Professional
Unfortunately, if you have any wooden structures on your property, there is still a possibility that you could end up with carpenter bees. With that in mind, know when to call a professional pest control company for assistance in eradicating the problem. While carpenter bees generally will not attack, having a professional company take care of an infestation is the best way to ensure a long-term solution.
