Wasps can make spending time in the garden unpleasant, but a simple spray of peppermint oil on outdoor furniture may keep them away for up to two weeks, according to a DIY expert.
Posting on TikTok, Ken Long said wasps were “everywhere” around his house, but there was an easy way to banish them. “Grab some peppermint oil and spray it on your outdoor furniture,” he advised. “If you don't have peppermint, you can use lemongrass or clove oil. Wasps hate the smell and it will keep them away for up to two weeks. If you see them coming back, just spray the furniture again.”
Safety Warning for Pet Owners
While peppermint oil is a natural wasp deterrent, these concentrated liquids can be toxic to dogs. The oil can cause skin irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and breathing issues if inhaled, licked, or applied to the skin.
An alternative is to apply the spray out of reach from animals. You can also mix only a few drops of peppermint oil with plenty of water and dish soap.
Why Wasps Become Aggressive in Late Summer
Wasps tend to change behaviour depending on the season. Early in summer, worker wasps feed protein (insects) to larvae, which then produces a sugary liquid. However, by this time of the year, the queen stops laying eggs and the larvae are gone, leaving thousands of adult workers with no food.
As they're hungry, aimless workers leave the nest to hunt for sugar, driving them towards sweet foods, soft drinks, beer gardens and bins. Wasps often feed on rotting, fermenting fruit in autumn, which is why they may linger for longer around certain times of the year.
Other Ways to Avoid Wasps
You can avoid wasps from pestering you by keeping outdoor meals covered and ensuring outdoor rubbish bins are tightly sealed and away from seating areas. Avoid swatting, as quick movements can trigger their defensive stinging; instead, stay calm and brush them away gently.
While keeping wasps away can be easy at times, if you have an active nest, it's crucial to contact a professional.
