Clove Oil Spray

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thedeaddiplomat

House Bee
Joined
Jul 25, 2009
Messages
498
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Location
cornwall
Hive Type
National
Number of Hives
sadly, no more!
I have seen mention on here of using clove oil spray on gloves, where there has been a sting. I assume that this disguises the pheromones that encourage other bees to join in?

If so, can someone tell me where to buy such a spray, please? And are there other things (lavender oil?) that have similar effects?
 
I find a tablespoon full of cider vinegar in 1 pint of water to be very effective - and cheap:smilielol5:
 
Carbolic soap is an old tried and tested method :gnorsi:.

John Wilkinson
 
I try and use sugar syrup instead of smoke. I find it gets onto my hands which is the most exposed. They seem more interested in the syrup than stinging me.
 
Essential clove oil is sold in Boots... not with the essential oils but with the emergency dentistry bits. Two or three drops in a small sprayer or lidded bottle. Also oil of peppermint does the same thing but it's a boring smell.

Sugar water is what we use for spraying hives but not all over the gloves. If it's hot they like a plain water spray with a couple of drops of chamomile oil. I don't like to clart my gloves in sugar water...increases the risk of bee squish.
 
Sugar water???

Sugar water is what we use for spraying hives but not all over the gloves. If it's hot they like a plain water spray with a couple of drops of chamomile oil. I don't like to clart my gloves in sugar water...increases the risk of bee squish.[/QUOTE]
I'm probably a bit slow on the uptake but could you clarify- do you use a sugar water sprayer instead of a smoker to calm the hive during a routine inspection, or just in particular circumstances? I've seen mentions of using sugar water, but never a description. Basically, A) when, B) where, C) how, D) why, and E) what strength- but any other details would also be welcome!

Many thanks
 
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