Plants and Flowers that Repel Yellow Jackets and Wasps

What are Yellow Jackets and Wasps?

Yellow Jackets and Wasps are predatory social wasps of the Vespula and Dolichovespula genera.  They are commonly known as yellowjackets or yellow jackets in North America. In other English-speaking countries, they are simply called “wasps.”

These pests are typically identified by their bright yellow and black striped bodies, although some species have a variety of colors and patterns on their bodies.

Both yellow jackets and wasps can be aggressive and have painful stings, and some species may also build nests in or around homes, causing problems for homeowners.

However, they also play important roles in controlling populations of other insects and pests.

What Attracts Yellow Jackets and Wasps?

They can be attracted by a variety of factors, including:

• Sweet and sugary substances such as fruit, juice, soda, and even floral scents
• Meat and protein-based foods such as grilled meat, pet food, and even garbage
• Bright colors and floral patterns, which may be mistaken for flowers
• Outdoor activities such as picnics, barbecues, and outdoor dining
• Bright lights and warm temperatures, especially in the late summer and early fall

It is important to note that yellow jackets and wasps are attracted to different things depending on the time of year and region. For example, in the early spring they may be attracted to protein-based foods to feed their young, while in the late summer and early fall they may be more attracted to sugary substances as they prepare for the winter.

Keep Yellow Jackets and Wasps Away

Here are some tips to keep yellow jackets and wasps away:

• Keep food and drinks covered when outside, and clean up spills immediately.
• Keep trash cans tightly sealed, and dispose of garbage regularly.
• Seal any cracks or gaps in windows, doors, and screens to prevent entry.
• Avoid wearing strong perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions, which can attract them.
• Hang decoys of wasp nests or yellow jackets around your property to discourage them from building new nests.
• Keep outdoor dining areas clean and free of food debris.
• Trim back trees and bushes near your home to eliminate nesting sites.
• Use yellow jacket and wasp traps away from areas where people gather.
• Plant flowers and other plants that repel yellow jackets and wasps.

Flowers and Plants that repel these Pests

While many people enjoy the sight of bees buzzing around their gardens, the presence of yellow jackets and wasps can be unwelcome and even dangerous. These aggressive insects can be attracted to certain flowers and plants, but there are also many that can repel them.

Mint: The strong scent of spearmint, peppermint, or pennyroyal can deter yellow jackets and wasps. Plant mint in your garden or use it in pots on your patio or porch.

Marigold: Marigolds have a strong scent that can also repel these insects. Plant them in your garden or use them in pots around your home.

Eucalyptus: The oil from eucalyptus leaves can repel these pests. Plant eucalyptus trees or use eucalyptus oil in diffusers around your home.

Citronella: Citronella is a popular insect repellent, and it can also repel yellow jackets and wasps. Plant citronella grass in your garden, or use citronella candles or oil in your outdoor living areas.

Lavender: Lavender has a sweet scent that can attract bees but repel yellow jackets and wasps. Plant lavender in your garden or use it in pots around your home.

Wormwood: Wormwood has a strong scent that can repel many insects. Plant wormwood in your garden or use it in pots around your home.

Geranium: Geraniums have a strong scent that can repel insects, including these pests. Plant them in your garden or use them in pots around your home.

Basil: Basil has a strong scent that can repel these pests. Plant basil in your garden or use it in pots around your home.

Thyme: Thyme has a strong scent that can repel many insects. Plant thyme in your garden or use it in pots around your home.

Wintergreen: Wintergreen, also known as Gaultheria procumbens, contains a chemical called methyl salicylate, which is used in many insect repellents. The strong, minty scent of wintergreen can help to repel yellow jackets and wasps.

Sage: This is another plant that can help to repel these stinging insects. Its strong scent can mask the pheromones that attract yellow jackets and wasps, making them less likely to come near.

Rosemary: This is an herb that is often used in cooking, but it can also be used to repel yellow jackets and wasps. Its strong, woody scent can help to deter these insects from entering your yard or garden.

Roman chamomile: This is a small, daisy-like flower that has a sweet, fruity scent. Its aroma can help to repel yellow jackets and wasps, making it a great choice for planting in your garden or around your home.

These plants can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground and can be placed around outdoor seating areas, picnic tables, or anywhere else you want to keep yellow jackets and wasps away. It’s important to note that while these plants can help to repel these insects, they are not foolproof solutions and should be used in conjunction with other preventative measures, such as keeping food covered and using traps or baits if necessary.

In addition to these plants, it is important to keep your outdoor living areas clean and free of sweet and sugary substances, as these can attract yellow jackets and wasps. Be sure to cover your food and drinks and dispose of garbage and recycling properly.