Some people encourage the presence of wasps because of their ecological impact. Wasps work tirelessly to pollinate your garden and run crowd control by feasting on an array of other pests that you may have lurking around your property. That said, wasps are still not a welcome sight on anyone’s property. Wasps are highly territorial pests and will sting whenever they feel threatened. Many people suffer significant allergic reactions to these stings, most of which can be prevented.
The wasp family is inclusive of everything from hornets to paper wasps to yellow jackets, but they can be singled out with a few similarities in characteristics:
- Narrow wings. Unlike honey bees, the wasp family has notable, thin wings.
- Long body shape. They are, in fact, slimmer and longer than most other stinging insects.
- Slim waist and abdomen. This gives the wasp an hourglass appearance, which is helpful in identifying them.
- Hairless body. This is a huge distinguishing feature in being able to identify wasps over other stinging insects.
- Coloring. Wasps can appear anywhere from yellow to black to dark brown.
- Prominent antennae. Wasps' antennae are sometimes curved.
How To Use Landscaping For Fewer Wasps
Wasps are either drawn to or deterred by certain plants, which is something that homeowners can use to their advantage in getting rid of them. Here are a few ways that landscaping can prove to be either helpful or hurtful when it comes to keeping wasps out of your Daphne yard:
- Plants that help deter wasps are geranium, citronella, lemon eucalyptus, and thyme. They all contain characteristics that wasps and other pests hate but that humans may find rather pleasant. Similarly, you can try diffusing blends of essential oil extracts of these plants to further the spread of their scent.
- Plants that attract wasps are spearmint, yarrow, and sweet fennel. By avoiding planting these, you will also be avoiding attracting other pests as well!
- Since wasps build their nests in overgrown greenery, it’s imperative that you properly maintain all trees, shrubs, hedges, and plantings on your property. In maintaining your property and avoiding overplanting, you are not only taking away a wasps’ favorite site for creating their nests but you’re also making it easier to see the development of one.
Tips For Preventing Wasps In Other Ways
Wasps are typically thought of as a summer pest because they often lurk around any outdoor gatherings with the hopes of a free meal. They are also highly territorial insects, which is something that you can use to your advantage. Here are a few of the ways you can keep wasps away from your home:
- While spending time outside, make sure that all food is properly stored. Like many other pests, wasps have a sweet tooth and love sugary foods and drinks. They also love garbage. Make sure that food and trash alike are securely stored and after your gathering has concluded, be sure to remove all trash and bring in your leftovers.
- Did you know that wasps hate the smell of dryer sheets and will steer clear of them? Hang a few dryer sheets around your property wherever people are congregating for an added layer of repellent and a pleasant smell.
- Wasps are territorial in nature and if they see another nest, they will keep away. Try blowing up a brown paper lunch bag to mimic a wasp nest and hang it around where you’re looking to spend time. Similarly, paper lanterns appear like a wasp nest and have the added benefit of being a lovely outdoor decoration. The wasps will keep away if they think they’re on someone else's turf.
If you are dealing with wasps on your property or would like to take steps to avoid a wasp infestation, we can help. As local experts in Daphne pest control, we are familiar with the stinging insects in the area. We offer stinging insect treatments and wasp nest removal services for Daphne, AL homes. For more wasp prevention assistance, or for the safe removal of an active nest, contact the professionals at Prewett Pest Control today.