The cicada killer wasp is a large, solitary insect that often causes concern due to its imposing size. Despite their intimidating appearance, these wasps are generally non-aggressive and prefer to focus on hunting their namesake prey. Their burrowing habits, however, can create a nuisance in lawns and gardens, displacing soil and disturbing turf. Homeowners seeking to manage these insects without resorting to chemical pesticides can employ several home remedies to encourage relocation or eliminate the wasps.
Identifying the Wasp and Its Nesting Habits
The cicada killer is one of the largest wasps in North America, with females reaching lengths of up to two inches. They possess a robust, black abdomen marked with distinct yellow or light orange bands, and their wings are often a clear, amber color. Being solitary, they do not form social colonies like yellow jackets or hornets.
Female wasps dig burrows, provisioning them with paralyzed cicadas for their larvae. Nests are typically found in dry, loose, or sandy soil, often along sidewalks or in thinly turfed areas. The entrance is recognizable by a U-shaped mound of excavated soil surrounding a golf ball-sized hole. Though the female possesses a stinger, it is primarily reserved for paralyzing cicadas and is rarely used against people unless the wasp is directly handled.
Habitat Modification and Mechanical Exclusion
Making the environment less appealing is an effective, long-term strategy. Cicada killers prefer dry, well-drained soil for burrowing, so increasing soil moisture acts as a deterrent. Keeping the lawn consistently and deeply watered makes the area unsuitable for the female wasp to excavate a new tunnel.
Focusing on turf health also prevents nesting, as the wasps prefer exposed, bare patches of soil. Maintaining a thick, dense lawn makes it physically difficult for them to access the ground for digging. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, at a depth of two to four inches over bare areas creates a physical barrier the wasps generally avoid. For active burrows, physically covering the entrance with a heavy stone or a glass bowl when the wasp is away can encourage the insect to abandon the site and relocate.
Substance-Based DIY Treatments
Targeting active nests with household substances can be successful if the application is timed correctly. The best time for treatment is late evening or early morning when the wasps are resting inside the burrow.
Soapy Water
A simple remedy involves pouring a solution of soapy water directly down the nest entrance. The detergent breaks down the wasp’s protective outer layer, leading to dehydration and suffocation.
Boiling Water
Boiling water poured directly into the burrow is another natural method to eliminate the adult wasp and potentially the larvae. This technique requires a large volume of water to reach the full depth of the tunnel, which can extend 12 to 15 inches underground.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
For a less immediate approach, food-grade Diatomaceous Earth (DE) can be applied around and lightly into the burrow opening. This fine powder works mechanically, causing microscopic abrasions on the wasp’s body, leading to fatal dehydration as the wasp moves through the treated soil.
Natural Repellents
Homeowners can also use deterrent sprays containing natural essential oils, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, mixed with water. The strong, concentrated scents act as a repellent, discouraging female wasps from establishing a nest. A vinegar solution is similarly used; when poured into a burrow, the acidity can make the soil less desirable, potentially forcing the wasp to relocate.
Limitations and Safety Considerations
Home remedies are most effective when dealing with a small number of isolated nests and often require repeated application. Since direct treatments may only eliminate the adult wasp currently occupying the burrow, new wasps may emerge the following season. Monitoring the area for several days after treatment and reapplying as needed, especially after rainfall, is necessary.
The female cicada killer possesses a stinger and venom, meaning a potential for an allergic reaction exists, despite the rarity of stings. It is advisable to wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and gloves, when applying any solution directly to a burrow. If the infestation involves numerous nests (20 or more) or is located near high-traffic areas like a front door or play space, contacting a professional pest management service is recommended.