Bees In Turf (Solitary Bee)

Ground-nesting bees generally prefer nesting in areas with morning sun exposure and well-drained soils containing little organic matter. Burrows are excavated in areas of bare ground or sparse vegetation. These bees usually avoid damp soils. Damage to lawns and turf is usually minimal and control is often sought because the bees are perceived as a danger or annoyance. Solitary bees rarely sting and there is no mass attack as might be found with honey bees or yellow jackets. Mowing and other outdoor activities can be continued with little problem. However, with very large aggregations, one may prefer to avoid the area for 4 to 6 weeks while nesting is taking place.

There are many common species of solitary bees that nest in individual holes in the ground. These bees range in size form 1/2 to 3/4 inches and may be a variety of colors such as blue, green, copper or metallic reddish-brown. They may belong to one of several groups of bees such as the membrane bees, digger bees, sweat bees, mason bees and leafcutter bees (Colletidae, Halictidae, Andrenidae, Anthophoridae, Megachilidae) and occur across the state. During the evening hours, females excavate nesting burrows that reach six or more inches in depth. Some of these bees line the burrow with a water-proofing secretion for protection from moisture. Small mounds of excavated soil may appear around each nest opening. When bees are numerous, many holes may be in closed proximity, creating a "city like" aggregation. Each hole belongs to an individual female. During the day, the active females collect pollen and nectar to carry back to the nest to form a "ball" 1/8 to 14 inch in diameter that is placed within a "cell" excavated in the side of the burrow.

IMPORTANT:  We don’t recommend spraying since they are a temporary nuisance and great pollinators. 

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