Win The War On Yellowjackets And Prevent The Pesky Insects From Taking Over Your Garden With These Key Tips
Picture this: you’re out in your backyard, the sun is shining, birds are chirping, and you’re surrounded by the fruits of your own garden labor.
The scene is almost perfect, except for one small, buzzing problem: yellow jackets.
These fierce, winged warriors aren’t just a nuisance but can turn a peaceful afternoon into a stinging nightmare. But your yard doesn’t have to be cursed by yellow jackets forever.
Instead, here’s everything you need to know about these pesky insects and how to bid them farewell from your beloved garden.
Yellowjackets: More Than Just A Sting
First of all, yellowjackets are a type of wasp that is often mistaken for bees.
Yes, they’re also important in nature for their role in controlling pest populations, but when they’re buzzing around your garden, it’s a totally different story.
Unlike bees, yellowjackets can sting multiple times. That’s why they are a more formidable foe for gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Identifying The Culprit: Is It A Yellowjacket?
Christine Grindle – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual yellowjacket
To start tackling the issue, you first need to know what you’re actually dealing with.
Yellowjackets are identifiable by their distinct yellow and black striped bodies and are smaller than bees.
They’re also most active during late summer and fall, and unlike bees, they’re not fluffy. Rather, they have a smooth, shiny appearance.
What Attracts Yellowjackets To Your Garden?
Now, these critters are attracted to gardens for a few main reasons.
Sweet substances, such as overripe fruits or sugary drinks, are a big draw. Yellowjackets also like to seek out proteins, which they can often find in garbage or pet food that is left outside.
Additionally, your garden might be an appealing site for their nests, which they usually build in the ground or in secluded, protected areas.
Methods To Get Rid Of Yellowjackets
When dealing with yellow jackets, safety is always of utmost importance. So, if you find a nest, it’s always best to call professionals, especially if you’re allergic to stings.
Then, for a more DIY approach, you can try using traps. There are various types available, including ones you can make at home using a mixture of water, sugar, and vinegar in a bottle.
Just remember that traps should be placed at the perimeter of your garden, away from areas of activity.
Natural Repellents: Keeping It Eco-Friendly
If you’re looking for a more natural solution, there are several other options, too.
Primarily, planting spearmint, thyme, or eucalyptus in your garden can actually help repel yellowjackets. Plus, a mixture of essential oils like clove, geranium, and lemongrass, diluted in water and sprayed around the garden, can be an effective deterrent.
Preventive Measures To Keep Yellowjackets At Bay
It’s also worth saying that prevention is always better than a cure. So, if you’ve successfully gotten rid of yellowjackets from your garden, it’s best to keep them from coming back.
You can do this by keeping your garden clean and free of food scraps or fallen fruits. Also, be sure to check that your trash cans are tightly sealed and that no pet food is left out.
Lastly, regularly inspect your yard for any indicators of a nest, and if you spot the signs, take action promptly.
Sign up for Chip Chick’s newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox.
More About:Gardening
