Households are being encouraged to try a simple "9pm rule" this summer to help keep wasps away from gardens during barbecues and evening meals outdoors. With warm weather drawing more people outside, pest experts say it is often what is left behind after eating and drinking that attracts the insects – not the people themselves.
The recommendation is to take a few minutes to clear away food, drinks and rubbish after everyone has eaten, instead of leaving them out for the rest of the evening.
What attracts wasps?
Glen Peskett, from Saxton Blades Multi Tools, said sugary drinks, empty cans, food scraps and sticky spills are among the biggest attractions for wasps. He said: "People often think wasps are just out to spoil a barbecue, but they're really just looking for an easy meal. I call it the '9pm rule' because it's usually around the point where everyone's finished eating, but the plates, cans and glasses are still sitting outside. Spending a couple of minutes clearing everything away before you relax can make your night way more relaxing knowing you can keep wasps away."
Wasps have a powerful sense of smell, meaning even small amounts of leftover food or sugary residue can quickly draw them into your garden. Glen added: "Wasps have an incredible sense of smell, so if you've left sugary drinks or food scraps around, they'll soon pick up on it. The less there is to attract them, the less likely they are to stick around."
How to follow the 9pm rule
To follow the "9pm rule", experts recommend bringing sugary drinks indoors or keeping them covered, throwing away empty cans and food packaging, wiping down outdoor tables to remove sticky marks and crumbs, putting leftover food back inside and making sure outdoor bins and recycling containers are securely closed.
While the advice will not prevent every wasp from visiting your garden, especially if there is a nest nearby, removing easy food sources can make your outdoor space far less appealing.
Glen said: "It's easy to think you need expensive sprays or gadgets, but good habits often make the biggest difference. If there isn't an easy food source waiting for them, wasps are much more likely to move on somewhere else."
