As the warm weather arrives, many Brits are spending more time outdoors — but wasps can quickly ruin a sunny evening. Whether you are at the park or in your own back garden, wherever there is food and drink around, wasps will almost certainly turn up uninvited to investigate.
Wasps can swiftly transform a garden get-together from enjoyable to alarming, but if you are determined to keep them away from your space, there are several measures you can take. Mike Rondas, general manager at Wasp-Eze, said: "With wasp season fast approaching, many Brits are looking for a quick fix to a common summer nuisance."
Cover Food and Secure Bins
Wasps are invariably attracted to food, so restricting their access is essential. Mike suggests covering food during summer gatherings and making certain all your rubbish bins have tightly secured lids. It is also sensible to position bins away from doorways and seating spaces.
Wipe Down Surfaces
After you have finished eating, remember to wipe down all furniture to clear away any food traces. This simple step removes the scent trails that attract wasps.
Homemade Repellent Spray
You could also attempt spraying around your furniture with a homemade repellent. Wasps detest powerful scents like clove, eucalyptus, citronella and peppermint. Try combining a few drops of one of these oils in a spray bottle with water and misting it across your outdoor area as a natural wasp deterrent. This two-ingredient solution is both effective and environmentally friendly.
Clear Fallen Fruit
If you are fortunate enough to have fruit trees or berry bushes in your garden, it is essential to keep on top of clearing away any fallen fruit. Fruit that drops from trees rots rapidly and acts as a magnet for hungry wasps.
Check for Nests
Wasps are typically at their most active between late July and early September — but if you are already noticing them, it could be a sign that a nest is nearby. Make sure to regularly inspect your sheds, roof spaces and fences for any evidence of nest building. Should you come across a nest, it is absolutely vital that you never attempt to remove it yourself, as doing so could provoke the wasps into becoming aggressive.
