BEES IN TURF
BEES IN TURF
There
are many common species of solitary bees that nest in individual
holes in the ground. They are all good pollinators. 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 "citylike" 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. A single egg is laid upon the pollen ball in March, April or
early May. After hatching, the larva feeds on pollen and develops within
the cell into a new generation of bees. The new generation emerges the
following year in March or April. At this time, mating takes place and
bee activity begins to pick up as the nesting cycle resumes. Though adult
bees feed on nectar, none store honey as such. Solitary, ground nesting
bees play a vital role in ecological systems, especially in pollination
of crops and wild plants. Solitary bees are valuable pollinators and should
not be destroyed unless there is some compelling reason.
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 are not "programmed" to sting people and there is no mass attack as might be found
with social hymenoptera such as honey bees or yellowjackets. A person might be stung if handling one roughly or if one becomes trapped in clothing. Mowing and other outdoor activities can
be continued with little problem. However, with very large aggregations,
the faint-of-heart may prefer to avoid the area for about 4 weeks while nesting is taking
place.
If chemical treatment is desired, recommendations for insecticides approved for control of these insects in home lawns can be found under Bees and Wasps in INSECT CONTROL IN HOME LAWNS in the NC Agricultural Chemicals Manual. Recommendations for insecticides approved for use on sod farms, golf courses or other commercial sites can be found in COMMERCIAL TURF INSECT CONTROL in the NC Agricultural Chemicals Manual.
For additional information on insect control and pesticide use, contact your
county Cooperative Extension Center
.
Recommendations for the use of any chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact an agent of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in your county.
