Wasp and Hornet Control

It is that time of year once again when wasps, hornets and yellow jackets become troublesome around the home and yard. Many people mistakenly call these insects bees due to their resemblance to the common honey bee.

If you are troubled by these insects, care must be taken to rid the area to prevent being stung. Wasps and hornets are social insects that often take up habitation close to homes but hate to be disturbed by people or pets. Commercial "wasp and hornet" aerosol sprays are quite effective and economical for ridding your house and yard of wasps.

If you have a nest appear in your yard, treatment of the nest should be made at dusk when the insects are inactive. Direct a steady spray on or into the nest opening for ten to fifteen seconds and then get away. Go out the day after you spray and watch for insect activity. If you see activity or aren't sure repeat the spray application again that night.

If you have wasps nesting in the ground use the insecticide Sevin. Mix it at the rate for lawn insects and pour it down the holes as a drench. Again waiting until just before dark would be best.

Yellow jackets are also attracted by sweet odors. Making sure garbage containers are tightly covered, and empty or open pop cans are not left sitting around will also help discourage these pests. The good news is that once we have a killing frost and cooler weather these pests will disappear and will most likely reappear and pester us again next year.

Dale L. Siebert
Extension Agent/Cropping Systems
Richland County Extension
418 2nd Avenue N.
Wahpeton, ND 58075
701-642-7793
dsiebert@ndsuext.nodak.edu

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