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Safe Control of
Wasp Nests
- Use
aerosol insecticides made for this purpose -
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Summary:
Most yellowjacket wasp nests can be left alone as
long as they are not located where the nest can be
accidentally bumped or stepped on. If treatment of a
threatening nest is needed, however, use the methods
outlined below for both aerial (above
ground) and ground nests (below ground).
Jack
DeAngelis, PhD
OSU Ext.
Entomologist (ret.)
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Aerial vs. ground nests
Yellowjacket wasp nests are built
either above ground (aerial nests;
right) or below ground (so called ground
nests). Ground nests have a hole at the soil
surface through which wasps enter and exit. For
large nests this hole can be 2 inches (5 cm) in
diameter. Aerial nests have a single entrance/exit
hole usually near the lower apex of the papery nest
(see photo right).
If either type of nest is built near
human activity it may become threatening especially
towards the end of summer. Aerial nests can
be accidentally bumped and ground nests can be
stepped on. Either case can result in swarming
behavior and wasp attack. Threatening nests can be safely
destroyed but keep in mind that most yellowjacket
wasps are actually beneficial. These wasps
prey on garden pests so only destroy nests that
are actually threatening.
Do not treat wasp nests
with gasoline or other flammable
liquid. These liquids are both dangerous
and illegal when used this way. Use the
suggestions below instead.
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A large aerial yellowjacket
wasp nest.
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Ground wasp nests
You'll probably discover ground nests in late summer by
the wasp activity around the entrance hole. Hopefully you'll notice the opening
before you step on it! Use a "jet"-type aerosol spray to treat
nests. These products propel a narrow stream of insecticide so you can
stand off a safe distance while treating the nest opening. They are
generally available at home and garden stores but for more information about one
such aerosol product see DoMyOwn.com, our affiliate.
Always a approach the nest entrance
carefully, stay back ten feet or more. In the
evening, just before dusk, spray the entrance
with about 1/2 can of the aerosol insecticide then
cover the opening with dirt or a rock to seal it.
Be cautious around the area of the nest
for the next few days because on occasion the first
attempt will fail and a new entrance hole will
be opened. Repeat above procedure if this occurs.
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