Wasps are common insects often encountered in outdoor settings, from garden spaces to picnic areas. While they play a role in the ecosystem, their presence can be unwelcome around human activity, particularly due to their potential to sting. Many seek natural, non-toxic approaches to deter wasps from their immediate living spaces.
Natural Scents Wasps Shun
Wasps possess a strong sense of smell, and certain natural aromas are highly unappealing to them, effectively acting as deterrents. Essential oils, concentrated plant extracts, are potent deterrents. Peppermint oil, for instance, contains menthol compounds that disorient wasps, making it difficult for them to navigate. Citronella oil, with its strong lemony scent, repels them by overloading their odor sensors. Other essential oils like clove, geranium, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil also emit strong fragrances that wasps tend to avoid.
To utilize these scents, essential oils can be diluted with water to create a spray. A common ratio involves mixing 10-15 drops of essential oil per cup of water in a spray bottle. This solution can then be applied around doorways, windows, and outdoor furniture where wasps might gather. Soaking cotton balls with undiluted essential oils and placing them in strategic locations, such as near outdoor dining areas or potential nesting spots, can also create a scent barrier. Diffusers, particularly outdoor models, can disperse these aromas continuously, creating a wasp-free zone. Diluted white vinegar or a mixture of water and dish soap also deter wasps.
Plants That Keep Wasps Away
Certain plants naturally produce compounds that release aromas wasps find unpleasant, making them effective additions to outdoor spaces. Planting these species around patios, decks, or entryways can create a living barrier against wasps.
Mint varieties, including spearmint and peppermint, emit a strong menthol scent that wasps actively avoid. Marigolds, with their distinct fragrance, are another plant known to deter these insects. Basil and thyme also possess strong aromas that wasps dislike, offering a dual benefit of culinary use and pest deterrence. Wormwood and eucalyptus are additional botanical options; wormwood has a potent scent, while eucalyptus leaves release a strong, menthol-like aroma that repels wasps. Citronella grass, often associated with mosquito deterrence, also works to keep wasps away due to its strong citrusy scent. Strategically placed, these plants encourage wasps to seek other environments.
Environmental Deterrents
Beyond scents and plants, modifying the environment can significantly reduce the appeal of an area for wasps. Wasps are attracted to food sources, particularly sweet substances and proteins. Promptly cleaning up food spills, especially sugary drinks and any meat scraps, is important to eliminate these attractants. Keeping trash cans tightly covered and avoiding leaving pet food outdoors also removes readily available food sources that draw wasps to an area.
Physical deterrents can also be effective. Wasps are territorial, and hanging a fake wasp nest in visible locations can trick them into believing the area is already claimed, prompting them to avoid establishing a new nest nearby. Using a spray bottle filled with plain water can deter individual wasps by knocking them off course without causing harm. Simple water traps with a sugary lure can attract and trap wasps, primarily for deterrence. Lastly, inspecting and sealing any cracks or holes in the exterior of a home, especially under eaves or around window frames, can prevent wasps from finding suitable entry points to build nests indoors.