Here’s how to identify wasps in your garden and safely get rid of them.
So how can you tell if aflying insectis abeneficial beeor a threatening wasp?
Wasp bodies look almost sleek, lacking the fuzzy hairs that enable bees to gather lots of pollen.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
Be prepared to run.
Wasp bait and traps work on some species, but only early in the season.
Remove wasp traps before midsummer so they don’t attract more insects and create a colony.
Credit: Robert Cardillo
In spring,caulk and seal any cracks on the exterior of your hometo prevent wasps from entering.
You should also call a pro if you’re allergic to stings.
If you decide to try getting rid of the wasps yourself, take appropriate precautions before you spray them.
Seal your pant cuffs to boots and sleeves to gloves using tape or rubber bands.
For wasps with ground-level nests, use insecticidal dust.
The dust works by sticking to the insects as they come and go out of the nest.
For above-ground nests, use a jet aerosol wasp spray with a range of 10 to 20 feet.
Never climb on a ladder to spray wasps; they can attack before you’re able to descend safely.
Plan an escape route before spraying so you know which way to run.
Dust or spray at night or early in the morning when most wasps are inactive and inside the nest.
If the wasps are still active, you could repeat the process.
