Your garden can be an open buffet for wasps if you’re not careful. People have been reminded of some of the best natural defences against these insects as the UK approaches its 'peak'. Wasps are generally active from April to October, with experts claiming that Brits are about to see the 'aggressive' height of wasp season.
During early summer, wasps can be helpful predators that eat garden pests. But pest control specialists claim that, by August, the social structure of a wasp colony changes.
This turns an otherwise functioning miniature society into a gang of aggressive scavengers. With their food stores nearly empty, the workers are forced to venture out into the world, and they often target what humans leave behind, having no issue helping themselves.
People can make sure that wasps see their garden as a no-go zone by putting a few natural defences in place. It is important that people remember to refresh these regularly so they do not lose effectiveness.
Simple habits also help, like keeping sweet drinks and food covered when you’re outside. If you have fruit trees in or near your garden, clear up any fallen fruit that might attract unwanted attention.
Make sure any bins are emptied often with the lids shut tight. These can become a beacon for bigs in general, not just wasps with an attitude.
If you want an extra layer of protection that does no lasting harm to wasps, add some strong-smelling essential oils to your outdoor setup. Because wasps rely heavily on scent to find food, these scents overwhelm their systems, making the area instantly less appealing.
Among the most commonly recommended oils are:
They’re known for bold, lingering fragrances and are popular in outdoor products designed to discourage flying pests.
One thing that trips people up is using oils once and expecting instant, lasting results. Essential oils evaporate and fade quickly - especially outdoors when exposed to things like wind, heat and sunshine, which can wipe out the smell faster than you think.
If you’re using scent-based solutions, they tend to work best when you reapply them regularly, alongside basic prevention that removes the things wasps are actually coming for.
To keep wasps away effectively, you need to reapply or replace your essential oil mixtures every two or three days. Consider placing your essential oil solutions in shady spots to extend their lifespan, such as under table leaves, chairs, or roof overhangs.
