Let’s be honest—no one wants to share their backyard BBQ with a bunch of buzzing, stinging insects. Whether you’re allergic or just plain annoyed by them, wasps and bees can really put a damper on your outdoor fun. While bees are important pollinators we want to protect, you still don’t want them nesting right under your deck or in your eaves. And wasps? Let’s just say they’re not the friendliest neighbors.
If you’re looking for ways to naturally deter these winged invaders without resorting to harsh chemicals, you’re in the right place! Here are some effective (and surprisingly simple) natural tips to keep your outdoor space wasp- and bee-free:
1. Cut Off Their Snack Supply
First things first: if you’re unintentionally offering free lunch, wasps will RSVP “yes” every time. Here’s how to make your yard less appetizing:
- Keep garbage cans sealed and clean. Rinse them out regularly and make sure lids fit tightly.
- Clean up after outdoor meals. That sticky soda can or popsicle stick? It’s like a five-star restaurant for wasps.
- Avoid leaving pet food outside. Even kibble can attract pests!
Remember, wasps have a serious sweet tooth—sugary drinks, fruit peels, and even empty bottles can draw them in.
2. Plant a Natural Force Field
Some plants don’t just look pretty—they actually repel wasps and bees! Try adding these to your garden or around your patio:
- Spearmint
- Basil
- Thyme
- Eucalyptus
- Lemongrass
- Wormwood
- Citronella
- Marigolds
- Geraniums
- Pennyroyal
Not only will your yard smell amazing, but these natural scents tend to send stinging pests in the opposite direction.
Pro Tip: Plant these near doors, windows, and outdoor sitting areas for an extra layer of defense.
3. Avoid the Plants They Love
While some plants repel wasps and bees, others practically roll out the welcome mat. If you’re trying to keep stingers at bay, you may want to steer clear of:
- Sweet fennel
- Queen Anne’s lace
- Yarrow
These bloomers are known to attract pollinators and wasps alike—so unless you’re building a butterfly garden, it’s best to skip them.
4. Spray Away with Essential Oils
Essential oils aren’t just for your diffuser—they can also be your secret weapon against wasps! Try this simple DIY spray:
Natural Wasp-Repellent Spray Recipe:
- 10 drops of essential oil (try peppermint, clove, lemongrass, or geranium)
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
- 1 cup of water
Mix it all in a spray bottle, shake well, and spray around doorways, eaves, porch railings, or any place wasps might try to move in.
5. Vinegar: The Natural Wasp Repellent You Already Have
Not a fan of essential oils? No problem. A simple mix of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle can also help repel wasps and bees.
Spray the mixture around the perimeter of your home, on outdoor furniture, and in high-risk nesting spots. Bonus: it doubles as a non-toxic surface cleaner!
6. Set Traps (DIY or Store-Bought)
Sometimes, prevention needs a little extra backup. Wasp traps are a great way to reduce their numbers—especially during the spring and summer when they’re most active.
While these wasp prevention methods may be effective to some extent, they are meant to keep wasps and bees away, not treat current nests. If you start noticing any stinging insects on your property, we encourage you to call our wasp exterminators immediately!