Wasps and yellow jackets are common pests that can cause a lot of distress, especially during the warmer months when they’re most active. They are known for their aggressive behavior and painful stings. If you’re trying to enjoy your garden without the nuisance of these buzzing creatures, one solution is to plant certain varieties of plants that naturally repel wasps and yellow jackets. The right plants can help keep these insects at bay, allowing you to create a peaceful and safe outdoor space.
Why Wasps and Yellow Jackets Are Attracted to Your Garden
Before we dive into the plants that repel wasps and yellow jackets, it’s important to understand why these insects are attracted to certain areas. Wasps and yellow jackets are particularly drawn to sweet smells, sugary substances, and bright colors. This is why they often appear during late summer and fall, searching for food sources like ripe fruit or sugary beverages. In addition to this, wasps and yellow jackets are also attracted to areas where they can build nests, such as trees, eaves, and even underground.
To prevent these pests from invading your garden, you need to disrupt their attraction to these areas. Certain plants, with their natural oils and scents, can help deter wasps and yellow jackets from entering your space.
Plants That Repel Wasps and Yellow Jackets
Several plants can naturally repel wasps and yellow jackets due to their strong scents. These plants either emit a scent that these insects dislike or contain natural oils that can act as a deterrent. Below are some of the most effective plants that can help you keep these insects away.
1. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Mint is one of the most effective plants for repelling wasps and yellow jackets. The strong, pungent aroma of mint can mask the sweet smells that attract these pests. Mint plants are easy to grow and spread quickly, making them an excellent natural repellent. You can grow mint in containers or along garden borders to create a natural barrier.
2. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
Eucalyptus is another plant that repels wasps and yellow jackets with its strong scent. The oil from eucalyptus leaves contains compounds that are known to deter many types of insects, including wasps. Planting eucalyptus trees or shrubs in your garden can create a natural, aromatic barrier that keeps wasps at bay.
3. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Wormwood has a strong, bitter scent that is unpleasant to many insects, including wasps and yellow jackets. It has been traditionally used as a repellent for various pests. You can plant wormwood in your garden to help repel wasps naturally. The silver-gray foliage also adds a unique texture to your garden.
4. Citronella (Cymbopogon spp.)
Known for its use in candles and insect repellents, citronella is also effective at keeping wasps and yellow jackets away. The plant emits a strong, citrusy scent that insects find offensive. Citronella grass is easy to grow in sunny areas, making it an ideal addition to gardens and patios.
5. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is not only beloved for its beautiful flowers and soothing fragrance, but it also acts as a natural repellent for wasps and yellow jackets. The floral aroma of lavender is pleasant to humans but highly repellent to many types of insects, including wasps. Growing lavender in your garden can help deter these pests while adding a lovely fragrance to your space.
6. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are not just bright and cheerful flowers; they also have insect-repelling properties. The strong scent of marigolds repels a variety of insects, including wasps and yellow jackets. These flowers are easy to grow and can be planted throughout your garden to help keep pests away.
7. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is a common culinary herb that has been shown to repel wasps and yellow jackets. The strong smell of basil is unpleasant to many insects, making it a natural deterrent. Planting basil near fruit trees or outdoor dining areas can help keep these pests at bay.
8. Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)
Geraniums are known for their vibrant colors and lovely scent, but they also have insect-repelling properties. The scent of geraniums can help repel wasps and yellow jackets. These plants are easy to grow in containers or garden beds, making them a great addition to any outdoor space.
9. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
The smell of cucumber plants can help repel wasps and yellow jackets. While cucumbers themselves may attract pests, the cucumber vines and leaves have a scent that wasps tend to avoid. Growing cucumber plants can help keep these pests at bay while also providing you with fresh vegetables.
10. Alliums (Allium spp.)
Alliums, such as garlic and onions, emit a strong odor that wasps and yellow jackets find unappealing. Planting alliums in your garden can help deter these pests while also adding a unique aesthetic to your space. Garlic and onions can also be used in cooking, providing you with a double benefit.
Other Tips for Keeping Wasps and Yellow Jackets Away
While planting repellent plants is a great way to keep wasps and yellow jackets at bay, there are other methods you can use to protect your garden and outdoor spaces.
Remove food sources: Keep your garden clean and remove any ripe fruit, sugary beverages, or food scraps that might attract wasps and yellow jackets.
Seal potential nesting sites: Wasps often build nests in sheltered areas like eaves, sheds, or underground. Inspect your garden for any areas where these insects might build nests and seal them up.
Use natural deterrents: In addition to planting repellent plants, you can also use essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where wasps are present.
Conclusion
Repelling wasps and yellow jackets naturally is possible by choosing the right plants for your garden. Plants like mint, eucalyptus, lavender, and citronella emit scents that these pests find unpleasant. In addition to planting these natural deterrents, make sure to remove any food sources and seal potential nesting sites to keep your garden pest-free. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can enjoy a peaceful and sting-free outdoor space all season long.
