Whether they are buzzing around your backyard or trying to build a nest in your eaves, dealing with wasps can be frustrating and even frightening. However, there are several natural methods you can try to deter wasps and keep them from becoming a nuisance around your home. With some simple strategies and DIY solutions, you can send wasps on their way without having to use harmful chemicals or exterminators.
Why Natural Wasp Control is Preferable
Using natural methods to control wasps has several benefits:
- Safer for people, pets, and the environment – Natural repellents and deterrents avoid the use of toxic chemicals, making them safer for your family and pets. They help maintain a healthy ecosystem in your yard.
- Prevent nest building – Implementing measures early in the season makes it less likely that wasps will build nests on your property in the first place.
- Cost-effective – Homemade repellents and traps can be very affordable, especially compared to hiring professional pest control.
- Specific to wasps – Natural methods target wasps but are harmless to bees and other beneficial insects. This helps maintain biodiversity.
Effective Natural Wasp Repellents and Deterrents
Here are some of the most effective DIY solutions for repelling wasps and keeping them away from your home:
Essential Oils
Certain strong-smelling essential oils act as natural wasp repellents. Oil mixtures can be sprayed directly on nests or made into simple traps:
- Eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemongrass oils – Mix 20 drops of either oil with 2 cups water in a spray bottle. Spray near nests and entry points.
- Citronella candles or torches – The smell repels wasps. Place around patios, decks, and outdoor eating areas.
- DIY essential oil trap – Mix 5 drops each of peppermint and lemongrass oil into a bowl filled with water and a bit of dish soap.
Physical Controls
It’s also helpful to physically block wasps’ access to your home:
- Seal holes and cracks – Caulk gaps in siding, weather stripping, windows, and overhangs so wasps can’t enter. Cover vents and chimneys with fine mesh.
- Use screens – Make sure all doors and windows have tight screens, especially leading into attics or crawl spaces.
- Prune vegetation – Cut back trees, shrubs, and branches touching the house. Eliminate hiding spots.
- Keep it clean – Promptly clean up fallen fruit, open trash cans, dirty grills, and other sweet food sources.
Traps
If there is significant wasp activity, trapping can help reduce numbers:
- DIY bottle traps – Make traps from plastic bottles cut in half and baited with fruit juice, vinegar, wine, or sugar water.
- Flypaper coils – Unroll coils of nontoxic flypaper near nests or high traffic areas. Wasps will get stuck on the coils.
- Bowl traps – Fill wide, shallow bowls with soapy water. Add some meat or crushed insects to attract wasps.
When to Call a Professional Exterminator
If you have attempted natural methods but there is still a sizeable, active wasp nest on your property, it may require professional removal. Seek help if:
- There are multiple large nests around your home
- Nests are in hard-to-reach spots like the attic or wall voids
- There is heavy traffic of wasps coming and going
- You or family members have allergies to wasp stings
Professional exterminators have protective equipment and commercial-grade sprays that can fully eradicate infestations. This may be the best route if DIY options have not resolved the problem.
Prevent Wasps Naturally By Filling Gaps, Covering Food, And Using Repellents
Wasps can certainly be a nuisance, but there are many effective strategies to deter them without harming your family or the environment. Start using natural repellents early in spring to stop them from building nests. Identify and seal up any entry points into the home. Use traps and other barriers to capture wasps and make your yard less inviting to them. Avoid overly toxic chemicals and instead opt for natural essential oils, prudent cleaning habits, and physical deterrents. With some diligence, you can send wasps on their way and prevent major infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natural Wasp Control
How early in spring should I start using natural wasp deterrents?
Start using natural wasp deterrents like essential oil sprays and maintaining physical barriers in early spring, as soon as wasp queens start emerging and scouting for nest locations. Getting an early jump makes it less likely they’ll choose your home.
What scent repels wasps the most?
Strong citrus, peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass scents are among the most effective natural wasp repellents. The smells overwhelm wasps’ sensitive odor receptors, making them want to avoid the area.
Will regular flypaper catch wasps?
Yes, nontoxic flypaper with a sticky coating can help trap wasps. Unroll flypaper coils near nests or hang strips in areas where wasps congregate. The wasps will get stuck when they land on the paper.
What home remedy will kill wasp nests?
There are a few natural sprays that can kill wasps and their nests, like mixtures of borax powder and water or vinegar and dish soap. However it’s often best to call an exterminator, as DIY nest removal risks getting stung.
Should I plug up the entrance of an active wasp nest?
No, you should never plug up or block the entrance to an active wasp nest. This will only anger the wasps and cause them to find another way out, possibly into your home. It’s safer to call an exterminator to remove active nests.
Conclusion
Before reaching for toxic pesticides and professional exterminators, try implementing natural wasp control methods first. Simple solutions like essential oil repellents, keeping a tidy home and yard, and installing physical barriers can go a long way in preventing wasp problems. Trapping can help reduce existing wasp populations. However, if non-toxic DIY options don’t resolve a large infestation, seeking professional removal may be your best option for getting rid of wasps safely and effectively. With a little diligence, you can keep your home wasp-free and your family protected during the warmer months.