10 Plants That Effectively Ward Off Wasps From Your Home and Garden

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10 Plants That Effectively Ward Off Wasps From Your Home and Garden

Why avoiding chemical wasp repellents is important

Chemical wasp repellents may seem like a convenient solution to keep these unwelcomed guests at bay, but they often contain harsh toxins that can be harmful to humans and the environment. Inhaling or coming in contact with these chemicals can trigger different health problems, especially for those who have asthma or allergies.

How plants can naturally repel wasps

Aside from being a natural alternative to chemical repellents, certain plant species have natural scents or chemicals that wasps find unpleasant or toxic. By planting these varieties in your garden or around your house entrance, you can deter their presence without putting your health and that of your loved ones at risk.

The top 10 plants that deter wasps

Here are the top 10 plants that effectively ward off wasps:

1. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is known for producing a pungent citrus scent that bugs cannot tolerate, making it an effective deterrent for not just wasps but other insects as well. You can plant them in pots near your outdoor sitting area or crush its leaves and sprinkle them around your door or windows to keep them away.

Produces a pungent citrus scent that bugs cannot tolerate

Effective in driving away not just wasps but other insects

2. Peppermint

Peppermint emits a strong scent of menthol which wasps avoid. You can use the leaves fresh or dried to keep them at bay.

Emits a strong scent of menthol which wasps avoid

Use the leaves fresh or dried to keep wasps at bay

3. Geraniums

The vibrant blooms of Geraniums are capable of keeping wasps away, while their sweet and flowery scent deter wasps from nesting nearby.

The vibrant blooms are capable of keeping wasps away

Their sweet and flowery scent deter wasps from nesting nearby

4. Basil

A common kitchen herb that acts as a potent bug repellent, Basil is also effective in repelling wasps. Some species, like the Holy basil, are more effective in deterring them.

A common kitchen herb that acts as a potent bug repellent

Some species, like the Holy basil, are more effective in repelling wasps

5. Citronella

Citronella is a common ingredient in anti-mosquito candles that double as wasp repellent. Its cousin, lemongrass, shares its aromatic properties and insect-repelling power.

Common ingredient in anti-mosquito candles that double as wasp repellent

Lemongrass cousin that shares its aromatic properties and insect-repelling power

6. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus produces a natural vapor that bugs avoid and find toxic. The oil extracted from the leaves is used in many insect repellents, including ones that ward off wasps.

Produces a natural vapor that bugs avoid and find toxic

The oil extracted from the leaves is used in many insect repellents, including ones that ward off wasps

7. Marigolds

Their vivid hue and pungent aroma keep wasps from nesting nearby. They are also effective in repelling other insects and pests.

Their vivid hue and pungent aroma keep wasps from nesting nearby

They are also effective in repelling other insects and pests

8. Nasturtiums

Known for their edible flowers, these plants also act as a natural pest control. Their peppery scent is off-putting to bugs and can deter wasps.

Known for their edible flowers, these plants also act as a natural pest control

Their peppery scent is off-putting to bugs and can deter wasps

9. Catnip

Catnip is an herb belonging to the mint family that has been used in traditional medicine. Its potent oils have been proven to be effective in repelling wasps and other pests.

An herb belonging to the mint family that has been used in traditional medicine

Its potent oils have been proven to be effective in repelling wasps and other pests

10. Wormwood

Wormwood is a medicinal plant with strong insecticidal properties. Its leaves contain thujone, a chemical which repels wasps and other flying insects.

A medicinal plant with strong insecticidal properties

Its leaves contain thujone, a chemical which repels wasps and other flying insects

Growing plants that deter wasps is an eco-friendly solution to a common household problem. By using natural deterrents, you're not only protecting your family but also the environment.

Do these plants really work in repelling wasps?

Yes, these plants have natural scents or chemicals that wasps find unpleasant or toxic, which make them effective in deterring their presence.

Where should I place these plants to deter wasps effectively?

Plant them in pots near your outdoor sitting area or around your door or windows to keep wasps away.

How often do I need to water them?

Water them moderately at least once a week, depending on the humidity and temperature of your location.

Can I plant them indoors or only outdoors?

Most of these plants can also be grown indoors as long as they have access to enough sunlight and soil nutrients.

Is it safe to use these plants if I have pets at home?

Most of these plants are safe for pets, but it's best to double-check with your veterinarian first, especially if your pets have a history of allergies or ingestion of certain plants.

Are all types of basil effective in repelling wasps?

While all basils have insect-repelling properties, some species like Holy basil and Cinnamon basil are more potent when it comes to deterring wasps.

Can I use these plants to get rid of wasps once they have nested?

These plants are useful in preventing wasps from nesting in the first place, but once they have already nested, it's best to call professional pest control services to avoid getting stung and to permanently remove their presence.

How do I know which plant or combination of plants will work best in my area?

You can consult with your local gardening centers or horticulturists to identify which plants thrive in your climate and soil type.

What other natural home remedies can I use to keep wasps away?

Other natural remedies include making a DIY wasp repellent spray using vinegar, essential oils, and water or mixing sugar and water to create a homemade wasp trap.

What should I do if I find a wasp nest in my garden or backyard?

If you see a wasp nest, stay away from it and call professional pest control immediately. Do not try to remove the nest yourself as it can be dangerous and provoke the wasps.