Do bees hate cinnamon?

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I’ve heard that cinnamon can be used as a natural way to repel bees. Does anyone know if bees actually hate cinnamon?

From what I’ve read, cinnamon can deter bees because of its strong smell, but I’ve never seen any scientific studies to confirm it. Anyone have any firsthand experience?

I use cinnamon around my garden and it seems to work. The bees tend to avoid areas where I’ve sprinkled it.

I think bees are more attracted to sweet smells rather than spicy ones like cinnamon.

Great. I’ll consider trying it :grinning:

It’s true that bees are drawn to sweet and floral scents, but I’ve also read that certain strong smells like cinnamon can disrupt their sensory mechanisms.

I’ve been beekeeping for years and I’ve never noticed bees being particularly put off by cinnamon. Maybe the effect is anecdotal?

Exactly, it’s not that they “hate” it, but it can interfere with their ability to navigate and communicate.

I sprinkle cinnamon around my plants to keep ants away and it seems to work, but I haven’t noticed it affecting the bees much. Maybe it depends on the concentration?

Same here. I’ve used cinnamon around my hives to deter ants, but the bees seem to go about their business as usual.

I read that while bees don’t “hate” cinnamon, they might avoid it because it’s unfamiliar and strong. However, it’s not harmful to them.

True, I think it’s more about aversion than actual dislike. The strong smell might just signal “danger” to them in some way.

For what it’s worth, I’ve used cinnamon sparingly near my hives to keep pests away, and my bees seem unaffected. It’s always good to have multiple strategies for bee-friendly pest control.

Really interesting question, I’ve tested cinnamon sprinkles on window sills, and while bees steer clear, they seem to just go around rather than avoid completely.

Good point! I find a cinnamon-peppermint combo works better. Cinnamon signals ‘stay away,’ but peppermint seems like ‘not here, buddy.’ Delivered better results.

I planted marigolds and basil right next to the patio. Smells nice for me and it seems to repel bees, no unpleasant dusting of spices.

If you’re outdoors, try citrus peels instead. Bees don’t love those either, and it’s less abrasive than cinnamon powder in dusty breezes.

I also tried hanging cinnamon sticks by the door. The aroma is strong, but honestly, I worry about inhaling it first. Still, no bees came in, so mission accomplished!

We gotta remember bees are helpful pollinators. Cinnamon can deter them, yes—but use it sparingly, and pair it with habitat plans so they still thrive elsewhere.