Paper wasps are known as invasive insects in the garden. Sometimes they may seem to attack for no reason or deliberately chase their victims across the yard. But these insects are naturally territorial and very protective of their nests. Wasps are unpleasant to deal with in your garden or patio. But they play an important role in the ecosystem as predators of other insects. Therefore, it is better to try humane ways to get rid of them first. What smell do wasps not like?
ContentWhat Smell Wasps Don't Like: You Need RosemaryUsing Rosemary as a Natural Wasp Repellent
WomanEL found that rosemary will help you repel wasps. This plant is one of the most popular herbs, loved for its fresh camphor aroma, culinary uses and medicinal properties. A hardy shrub can do more than just beautify your garden and add flavor to your dishes; it is also an effective protector against wasps.
What smell wasps don't like: you need rosemary
Rosemary has a strong minty flavor that many people adore. But it is this aromatic quality that makes wasps run away from it. Wasps have a bloodhound-like sense of smell, which they use to find other insects to feed to their young or to lay parasitic eggs. This sense of smell is so sensitive that military scientists have even taught wasps to detect explosives, illegal substances, buried people and much more. When wasps smell the strong scent of rosemary, they will usually leave the area.
A 2013 study published by Pest Management Science tested 21 essential oils for their ability to repel wasps and found rosemary to be one of the most effective essential oils. of all oils.
Rosemary mixed with geranium, clove and lemongrass essential oils was even strong enough to deter all the wasps in the study from approaching the wasp bait. In addition to its ability to effectively repel wasps, rosemary oil is the active ingredient in some wasp and hornet sprays.
Even though paper wasps avoid this fragrant herb, it is still very attractive to bees and butterflies, which They enjoy visiting the bush while it is blooming with small flowers.
Using Rosemary as a Natural Wasp Repellent
Of all the common herbs, rosemary is perhaps one of the easiest to grow. To care for your rosemary plant, provide it with neutral, well-draining soil, warm temperatures, and bright sunlight. Rosemary also grows quite well in containers, provided it has good drainage and room for the roots to spread. By growing rosemary in containers, you can place it near outdoor seating areas or directly under porches and sheds where wasps typically build their nests.
Of course, growing live rosemary is not a completely foolproof method of wasp repellent, and wasps that are desperate enough will likely still take up residence around your home and garden. In this case, for even greater effectiveness, you can pick a few rosemary leaves and burn or grind them to release their compounds, such as when you're relaxing on the back porch.
Applying the herb to your skin can turn fresh rosemary into a mosquito repellent that can also be effective in repelling wasps. If you don't have access to growing rosemary near your porch or balcony, you can also mix a rosemary essential oil spray and apply it to your porch, shed, and other areas where wasps commonly land and nest.
However, although rosemary essential oil is included in some wasp sprays, we do not recommend spraying it directly on the insects or their nest, as this may provoke an attack.
Did you know? What are some insects that shouldn't be killed at all? They are useful! Here's who made the list.