When summer rolls around, many of us light citronella candles to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay. However, there’s a common myth floating around that these candles repel bees. In reality, the opposite is true—bees are attracted to the scent of citronella! Let’s dive into the reasons behind this misconception and explore why these little pollinators are drawn to the fragrant allure of citronella.

Misunderstanding Citronella as a Repellent

The belief that citronella candles repel bees likely stems from their effectiveness against mosquitoes. Citronella oil, derived from the leaves and stems of lemongrass, contains compounds that can mask human scents, making it harder for mosquitoes to find us. This has led to the assumption that if it can deter one insect, it might do the same for others, including bees. However, this is a classic case of misinterpretation.

Bees are primarily attracted to flowers and plants that produce sweet, fragrant scents. These scents signal the presence of nectar, which is essential for their survival. Citronella, with its fresh and citrusy aroma, mimics the natural scents found in many flowering plants. As a result, bees are drawn to the smell of citronella, thinking it may lead them to a food source.