How To Keep Wasps From Nesting

As you look forward to spring, you’ll want to think about using your yard more. However, if wasps start nesting around your property, it can make it a no-go zone. What can you do to ensure that wasps won’t find your yard a comfortable spot to stay? Read on to find out.  

How To Spot A Wasp Nest  

Firstly, you need to know what a wasps nest looks like, so you can be on the lookout for them. What do they look like, and what should you do if you find them? 

Typically, wasps make their nests from chewing up wood fiber and mixing it with their saliva. This creates a thin papery looking nest that they live in. Remember that where you find that nest will be a clue that wasps are inside of it. They can be in tree hollows, in the ground, or on the side of your home. Depending on the type of wasp, they can even get into your attic to nest.   

You may see wasps going in and out of the nest, too. You’ll want to take care, as a nest can contain thousands of wasps, depending on the species. As they can sting multiple times, you don’t want to risk getting near it.  

If you do come across one, the most important thing to do is not to approach it. Instead, you’ll want to talk to an expert to help you.   

The Difference Between Wasps And Bees 

If you think some kind of flying insect is nesting on your property, then you need to identify whether its wasps or bees. They can look the same at first glance, but there are key differences.  

Typically, bees are yellow and black striped like wasps are, but are typically rounder, with furry bodies. Wasps are usually longer and smoother. Also, if you’re unlucky enough to get stung, a bee will die after stinging you, while the wasp will be capable of stinging multiple times.  

How To Stop Wasps From Nesting 

You can reduce the chances of wasps staying on your property if you take a few simple steps. It’s all about understanding what makes a place attractive to wasps and removing any benefits to them.  

Clean up after eating outdoors

The warmer weather is prime time for picnics, barbecues, or just eating al fresco. The problem is, that’s essentially a buffet to a wasp. They love food with protein in the summer, so a barbecue is perfect for them. Plus, they’re never going to turn down sweet and sugary things too.  

When you do eat outdoors, make sure you clean up quickly to prevent wasps from sticking around. Also, make sure you check your drinks before you take a sip. Outdoors, a wasp may have made its way into the can or bottle.  

Seal up trash

Again, as wasps are looking for food, they’re going to look for it anywhere they can. An unsealed trash can is perfect for them, as they can get in and out of it and then set up their nest nearby.   

This is a simple fix, though. To stop getting wasps in your yard, seal up your trash cans when you have trash outside waiting for pickup. That way, there’s nothing for them to keep feeding on.  

Patch up your home

Over time, your home may develop cracks and crevices in its exterior. There are lots of reasons why you may want to patch them up, such as improving your home’s curb appeal. Did you know, though, that it can also prevent wasps from nesting?  

This is because some wasps like to nest in cracks in the walls, as it’s a sheltered space for them. You can stop them in their tracks by sealing them up before the warmer weather comes around. In minor cases, all you’ll need is some caulk to fill them up.   

Try some essential oils

If you’re very concerned about wasps, then you can take the above steps and try repelling them with essential oils, too. For example, many homeowners have found success with clove, lemongrass, and geranium oil. They also don’t like peppermint oil, so you can try that, too. To use them, rub the oils on areas where they would nest, such as outer walls and crevices.  

You can also try planting certain herbs to get a similar effect. Spearmint, thyme, citronella, eucalyptus, and wormwood all work well in this instance.  

What To Do If You Do Find A Wasp Nest 

You can take all the necessary precautions, but still, find that wasps are swarming around your yard. What do you do if you think there’s a nest? 

Prepare to search

Before you go looking for the nest, get prepared to do so. Tie your hair back, wear tighter fitting clothing, and ensure you’re wearing darker colors. Also, wash off any scents you’re wearing as they can attract wasps. Once you’re ready, you can start looking.  

Follow the Wasps

If you’re seeing wasps in your yard, you can follow them to see where they return to. That will usually take you back to their nest. If you’re struggling to do so, you can check all the regular places that they would nest in. That includes tree hollows, the side of your home, in the ground, and so on. Once you find the nest, ensure that you don’t go near it. You don’t want to risk getting stung, especially if you’re allergic.   

Call a Professional

Once you know where the wasp nest is, call Facility Pest Control to remove the wasps safely. They’ll work to ensure that the wasps are removed safely, and you can enjoy your yard again.   

Now you know how to deter wasps from getting comfortable on your property this summer, and how to put them off nesting. If they do still nest though, call the experts to come to take care of them for you. They’ll ensure that your yard is safe to use in the summer months.