Ah, summer! A splendid season filled with the tantalizing aroma of barbecues, the vibrant colors of blooming gardens, and the refreshing delight of lounging by the pool. But just when you’re about to savor that sun-kissed moment, unwelcome guests — wasps — can turn your joy into dread. These buzzing nuisances craft their nests in hidden corners, snugly tucked away in trees, under the protective cover of decks and porches, within the walls of your home, or even hidden beneath the ground. While a few species may be harmless, those living nearby will fiercely protect their territory.
To help you enjoy a wasp-free summer, we’ve curated a list of effective strategies that will keep these winged intruders at bay.
1. Harness the Power of Wasp-Repellent Herbs
Imagine a garden bursting with fragrant herbs that not only enhance your culinary creations but also keep wasps at bay. Planting these vibrant herbs is an easy and cost-effective way to deter wasps. Even a few small pots on your windowsills’ or doorsteps’ can create a lovely barrier. Here are some enchanting herbs to consider:
- Eucalyptus: With its refreshing scent, this herb repels more than just wasps.
- Citronella: Known for its citrusy aroma, it’s a classic choice for outdoor gatherings.
- Spearmint: The invigorating scent of spearmint can send wasps flying in the opposite direction.
- Lemongrass: Its zesty lemon fragrance is both delightful and a powerful wasp deterrent.
- Wormwood: A lesser-known hero in the battle against pests, known for its strong aroma.
- Thyme: A culinary delight that’s equally effective in warding off wasps.
2. Create a Spotless Outdoor Sanctuary
A clutter-free sanctuary is vital for enjoying the beauty of summer. Keep your garden and outdoor spaces free from debris, ensuring that decaying wood, old garden tools, and other clutter are cleared away, as they create appealing nesting spots for wasps. Ensure that your sheds and garages are tidied up as well. Don’t forget your rubbish bins! Seal all trash bags tightly and make sure the lids are secured. If you maintain a compost pile, place it as far from windows and doors as possible to avoid attracting these pesky critters.
3. Craft Your Own Wasp Repellent
Create a natural defense against wasps by crafting your very own repellent using essential oils. Combine these aromatic oils with water in a spray bottle for a chemical-free alternative to commercial sprays. A gentle spritz on window sills, doors, and even your garden furniture can provide extra protection — and you can apply it directly to yourself, too! Here are some effective essential oils to use:
- Clove: Its rich, warm scent is not only pleasant but also a powerful wasp repellent.
- Lemongrass: The refreshing and uplifting aroma adds an element of zest to your spray.
- Peppermint: Known for its invigorating scent, it creates a refreshing barrier to deter unwanted visitors.
4. Shield Your Delicious Delights
When indulging in summer feasts, wasps can quickly turn your picnic into a frustrating experience. These pests are particularly drawn to sugary goodies, from ripe fruits to decadent cakes and sweet drinks. To keep them away, cover your food whenever possible. Utilize lids and covers to protect your delicacies, and don’t leave anything exposed to the air. When drinking from cans, pour your beverage into transparent glasses to monitor for any stowaways, as the last thing you want is an unexpected sting in your mouth. Use reusable silicone lids to cover serving platters and minimize plastic waste — preserving the environment while safeguarding your summer gatherings.
5. Deploy Wasp Traps Like a Strategic Commander
Wasp traps serve as clever sentinels in your outdoor haven. Their design lures wasps into a confined space from which they cannot escape. Perfect for patios, barbecue setups, and lively outdoor events, wasp traps help keep these pests at bay. To maximize effectiveness, take a moment to observe the flight patterns of local wasps, then place your trap strategically along their path. Fill the trap with your chosen attractant and let it work its magic, preventing wasps from disturbing your enjoyment of summer. You can purchase both the lure and pots here.
6. Fortify Your Home with Flyscreens
Flyscreens are your ultimate allies in keeping your home tranquil and wasp-free. These fine mesh screens invite fresh air into your living space while acting as a barrier against buzzing intruders. Here is just a brief overview of flyscreens we can offer:
- Roller Screens – Either made to measure or DIY Kits, the mesh seamlessly rolls back into the cassette when not in use.
- Magnetic Screens – Made to measure, these screens are great for conservatories and small windows. With self-adhesive fixing pads to make it easy to install, this PVC frames screen offers additional frames to ensure the screen clears any protruding window handles – from single, double or triple frames.
- Sliding Screens – Aluminium framed, these screens are great for windows and doors alike. EHO love them for their easy cleaning in commercial kitchens, but they’re also suitable for domestic properties.
- Hinged Screens – Perfect for when you need to swing the mesh out of the way to open a window or door. They’re either available as either Made to Measure or DIY Kits.
- Fixed Screens – If you need a permanent solution, these types of screens are the best. Available as DIY Kits or made to measure, they are easily fixed into place.
If you have a wasps nest or they’re becoming increasingly hostile, contact a pest control business straight away and they will be able to assist. Below I have listed a couple of trusted and tried pest companies that we have dealt with for years.
ATMM Pest Control – Adrian, 07979 664983
Venables Pest Control – Chris, 07500 668 521
