Repelling Hornets, Bumblebees and Wasps

Question:

Hardiness Zone: 8a

Pam from Sachse, TX

Answer:

Certain plants (borage, dill, garlic, onion, fennel, sage, thyme, parsley, and marigolds) are said to help repel insects in the garden, but I would doubt their effectiveness when it comes to the likes of hornets, bumblebees, and wasps. I've also read that staking scented dryer sheets around the garden will keep them at bay, although I've never tested this for myself. I'm a bit skeptical about this advice though, as I've also read that to prevent getting stung, a person should avoid using heavily scented soaps, shampoos, perfumes, colognes and after-shaves.

Since these insects are all either important pollinators or insect eaters, it's best not to eliminate their populations entirely. The time to take action is when populations grow big enough to warrant control.

So let's start with the hornets and wasps. Although hornets tend to prefer live prey (only attacking when their nest is disturbed) same control methods tend to work on both. The Yellow Jackets are the variety of social wasps that usually cause the most angst. They are highly attracted to proteins of any kinds, so be sure to keep a lid on your garbage and keep you dog and cat food bowls indoors during the summer months. Wasps are also attracted to the types of refined sugars that are found in soft drinks or used in hummingbird nectars. There are several types of mechanical, non-toxic wasp traps available. These typically hang from trees or eaves and work to help reduce local populations. They work on hornets, too. Look for them online or at a local farm supply store or garden center.

You can also make your own trap with a 2-liter soda bottle. Carefully cut off the top 1/3 of the bottle with a sharp knife and flip it so the neck is face down into the bottom 2/3 of the bottle. Secure the two into place with staples or duct tape. Partially fill the bottle with soda or juice (spill a few drops on the outside to draw the wasps to the scent). Hang the bottle using wire or string, or set it on a stump at the corner of the yard. Wasps and hornets will find their way into the bottle, but the inverted conical shape will confuse them and prevent them from escaping. Clean and refill the trap after several days, or cover it with a garbage bag and toss it into the trash.

A citrus oil spray can be used on rogue wasps and hornets while out working in the garden. This is also available online or at garden centers.

In the case of bumblebees, they are highly beneficial pollinators in the garden that usually don't want anything to do with people. Ignore them and they will typically ignore you. If you find a nest in an area frequented by pets or people, contact a professional for help with removal.

Good luck!

Ellen

About The Author: Ellen Brown is an environmental writer and photographer and the owner of Sustainable Media, an environmental media company that specializes in helping businesses and organizations promote eco-friendly products and services. Contact her on the web at http://www.sustainable-media.com