WITH temperatures rocketing across the UK in recent weeks, it’s been the perfect excuse to enjoy some al fresco dining.
But along with the lovely weather comes a familiar nuisance, with wasps often crashing the BBQ, picnic or meal.
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Wasp season began in April, and this year’s prolonged warm weather has created perfect conditions for them to thrive.
Painful stings can quickly ruin a sunny afternoon, and for those with allergies, they can even trigger life-threatening anaphylaxis.
There’s also the risk of infestation. If wasps decide to build a nest in your home or garden, their numbers can multiply rapidly and removal by pest control professionals can cost as much as £200.
But thankfully, there’s an inexpensive items which most Brits will have lying around in their fruit bowl or in the fridge.
Fruits like pears or mango or even sugary fizzy drinks out in your can act as a sort of lightning rod for wasps, drawing them away from where you are and over to a safe place out of your way.
The former can be nabbed from Sainsbury’s for 45p each.
This ‘bait’ should be placed about 10ft-20ft away from where you are, effectively creating a safe zone for the wasps to buzz around, keeping them away from you.
ANOTHER USEFUL TIP
Another household item which can be used to repel the pesky insects is garlic.
Garden expert at Polhill Garden Centre, Josh Novell lifted the lid on why the pungent bulbs are so effective.
“Place minced garlic in a small bowl near outdoor seating or food,” Josh recommends.
Or, you can fill a spray bottle with water and two teaspoons of garlic powder, and then spray it around patios, doors and bins.
The garlic odour will linger and deter wasps.
Josh’s other nugget of advice was to consider growing garlic in garden beds or containers – it’s a win-win for repelling wasps and ensuring you’re always stocked up on the culinary essential.
Many people’s first instinct is to set out a jar of jam or sugary water to lure wasps, but Josh warns this can actually make things worse.
“Sweet traps can attract wasps from neighbouring areas, increasing activity rather than reducing it,” he says.
“You’re unintentionally drawing them in.”
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here’s what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
