Yellow jackets are aggressive wasps that can ruin outdoor activities and pose a threat to people, especially those allergic to their stings. While they are beneficial for controlling pest populations, their presence can be unwelcome in gardens and outdoor spaces. One natural way to deter yellow jackets is by planting certain types of plants that they dislike. In this article, we’ll explore what plants yellow jackets hate, why they avoid them, and how you can use these plants to create a yellow jacket-free zone in your garden or outdoor area.
Why Do Yellow Jackets Avoid Certain Plants?
Strong Scents
Yellow jackets are sensitive to strong odors. Plants with pungent aromas, such as herbs and certain flowers, can repel them. These scents interfere with their ability to locate food sources and nesting sites.
Natural Chemicals
Some plants produce chemicals that are unappealing or even toxic to yellow jackets. These compounds act as natural repellents, making the plants less attractive to the wasps.
Lack of Food Sources
Yellow jackets are attracted to sugary foods and proteins. Plants that do not produce nectar, fruit, or other food sources are less likely to draw them in.
Top 10 Plants That Repel Yellow Jackets
1. Mint (Mentha)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Mint has a strong, refreshing scent that yellow jackets find overwhelming. The essential oils in mint, such as menthol, act as natural repellents.
How to Use It
- Plant mint around patios, decks, or garden borders.
- Use crushed mint leaves as a natural repellent by placing them in areas where yellow jackets are active.
Caution
Mint can spread aggressively, so consider planting it in containers to control its growth.
2. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Eucalyptus has a strong, camphor-like scent that yellow jackets dislike. The plant’s oils are also used in many insect repellents.
How to Use It
- Grow eucalyptus in pots or as a hedge near outdoor seating areas.
- Hang dried eucalyptus branches around your garden or patio.
3. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Wormwood contains absinthin, a bitter compound that repels yellow jackets and other insects.
How to Use It
- Plant wormwood in sunny areas of your garden.
- Use dried wormwood leaves to create sachets for outdoor tables.
4. Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Citronella is well-known for its insect-repelling properties. Its strong citrus scent masks the odors that attract yellow jackets.
How to Use It
- Plant citronella grass in pots or garden beds.
- Use citronella candles or oil diffusers in outdoor areas.
5. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Marigolds produce a strong scent that deters yellow jackets. They also contain pyrethrin, a natural insect repellent.
How to Use It
- Plant marigolds around vegetable gardens or outdoor seating areas.
- Use marigold flowers in bouquets to keep yellow jackets away.
6. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Basil has a strong, aromatic scent that yellow jackets find unpleasant. It also lacks the nectar and pollen that attract them.
How to Use It
- Grow basil in pots near windows, doors, or outdoor dining areas.
- Use fresh basil leaves in cooking or as a natural repellent.
7. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Lemongrass contains citronella oil, which has a strong citrus scent that repels yellow jackets.
How to Use It
- Plant lemongrass in sunny areas of your garden.
- Use lemongrass oil in outdoor diffusers or sprays.
8. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Pennyroyal has a strong minty scent that yellow jackets dislike. It is also toxic to many insects in large quantities.
How to Use It
- Plant pennyroyal in containers to prevent it from spreading.
- Use dried pennyroyal leaves as a natural repellent.
Caution
Pennyroyal can be toxic to pets and humans if ingested, so handle it with care.
9. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Lavender has a calming scent for humans but is unappealing to yellow jackets. Its strong aroma masks the scents that attract them.
How to Use It
- Plant lavender near entrances, patios, or garden borders.
- Use dried lavender in sachets or as a natural repellent.
10. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Why Yellow Jackets Hate It
Thyme has a strong, earthy scent that yellow jackets find unpleasant. It also contains thymol, a natural insect repellent.
How to Use It
- Plant thyme in sunny, well-drained areas of your garden.
- Use fresh or dried thyme in outdoor areas to deter yellow jackets.
How to Use These Plants Effectively
Create a Barrier
Plant repellent plants around the perimeter of your garden or outdoor space to create a natural barrier against yellow jackets.
Combine Plants
Mixing different repellent plants can enhance their effectiveness. For example, combine mint, lavender, and marigolds for a multi-layered defense.
Use in High-Traffic Areas
Place potted repellent plants near outdoor seating areas, trash cans, or compost bins to keep yellow jackets away.
Regular Maintenance
Trim and maintain repellent plants to ensure they release their scents effectively. Crush leaves occasionally to release more oils.
Other Tips to Deter Yellow Jackets
Remove Food Sources
- Keep outdoor eating areas clean and free of food scraps.
- Cover trash cans and compost bins tightly.
Avoid Bright Colors
Yellow jackets are attracted to bright colors, especially yellow and white. Avoid wearing these colors or using brightly colored decorations outdoors.
Use Traps
Set up yellow jacket traps away from outdoor areas to lure them away from your garden.
Common Questions About Yellow Jackets and Plants
Do These Plants Harm Yellow Jackets?
Most repellent plants simply deter yellow jackets without harming them. However, some plants, like pennyroyal, can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Can I Use Essential Oils Instead of Plants?
Yes, essential oils from plants like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender can be used as natural repellents. Mix a few drops with water and spray around outdoor areas.
How Long Do Repellent Plants Last?
The effectiveness of repellent plants depends on their growth and maintenance. Regularly trimming and crushing leaves can help maintain their repellent properties.
Conclusion
Yellow jackets can be a nuisance, but planting certain types of plants can help keep them at bay. Mint, eucalyptus, wormwood, citronella, marigolds, basil, lemongrass, pennyroyal, lavender, and thyme are all effective at repelling yellow jackets due to their strong scents and natural chemicals.
By incorporating these plants into your garden or outdoor space, you can create a natural barrier against yellow jackets and enjoy a more peaceful environment. Combine these plants with other preventive measures, such as removing food sources and using traps, for the best results. With a little planning, you can keep yellow jackets away and enjoy your outdoor spaces without worry. Happy gardening!
