How to Get Rid of Ground Digger Wasps Nests

Ground digger wasp nests can be a real problem when they start popping up all over your yard. These pesky insects can cause harm to humans and pets and can make it difficult to enjoy the outdoors. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get rid of ground digger wasp nests without having to resort to harsh chemicals or calling in an exterminator.

Identifying Ground Digger Wasps Nests

1. Appearance: Ground digger wasps are typically 1/2 to 1 inch long and are black with yellow or orange markings.
2. Nesting Habits: These wasps nest in the ground and create small mounds of dirt around the opening to their nest.
3. Behavior: Ground digger wasps are typically not aggressive and will only sting if they feel threatened or provoked.

If you have several ground digger wasp nests in your yard, it’s important to take action to get rid of them as soon as possible. Here are some tips to help you eliminate these pests safely and effectively:

Tip #1: Use a Homemade Wasp Spray

Create a homemade wasp spray by mixing two tablespoons of dish soap with one quart of water in a spray bottle. Shake the mixture well and spray directly on the ground digger wasp nest. The soap will clog their breathing pores, causing them to suffocate and die.

How to Safely Use Homemade Wasp Spray?

• Make sure to wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, gloves, and a mask.
• Spray the mixture directly into the opening of the nest.
• Wait until nighttime when the wasps are less active to spray.

Tip #2: Use a Commercial Wasp Spray

If you prefer a commercial option, look for a wasp spray specifically designed for ground digger wasps. These sprays can be found at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and make sure to wear protective clothing when using the product.

How to Safely Use a Commercial Wasp Spray?

• Read the instructions on the product label before use.
• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, gloves, and a mask.
• Spray directly into the opening of the nest.
• Wait until the spray has dried before removing the nest.

Tip #3: Use a Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution directly into the opening of the ground digger wasp nest to kill the wasps. The acidity of the vinegar will kill the wasps on contact.

How to Safely Use a Vinegar Solution?

• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, gloves, and a mask.
• Spray the solution directly into the opening of the nest.
• Wait until the wasps are no longer active before removing the nest.

Tip #4: Pour Boiling Water on the Nest

Boil a pot of water and carefully pour it directly into the opening of the ground digger wasp nest. The hot water will kill the wasps and destroy the nest.

How to Safely Pour Boiling Water on the Nest?

• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, gloves, and a mask.
• Pour the boiling water directly into the opening of the nest.
• Avoid pouring boiling water on plants or other living organisms.

Tip #5: Use a Dust Insecticide

You can also use a dust insecticide to get rid of ground digger wasp nests. Apply the dust insecticide directly to the opening of the nest, and the wasps will track the dust back to their nest, killing the entire colony.

How to Safely Use a Dust Insecticide?

• Read the instructions on the product label before use.
• Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, gloves, and a mask.
• Apply the dust insecticide directly to the opening of the nest.
• Avoid inhaling the dust while applying.

Tip #6: Call a Pest Control Professional

If you are unable to get rid of ground digger wasp nests on your own or feel uncomfortable tackling the problem yourself, consider calling a pest control professional. They can safely eliminate the nests and ensure they won’t return.

When to Call a Pest Control Professional?

• If you have multiple nests in your yard.
• If you or a family member are allergic to wasp stings.
• If you are uncomfortable using insecticides or DIY methods to eliminate the nests.

FAQs on Getting Rid of Ground Digger Wasps

Q1. What are Ground Digger Wasps?

Ground digger wasps are solitary insects that nest in the ground. They are not aggressive and typically only sting if they feel threatened or provoked.

Q2. Are Ground Digger Wasps Dangerous?

Ground digger wasps are not inherently dangerous, but they can cause harm if provoked or if you are allergic to their sting. It’s important to eliminate ground digger wasp nests as soon as possible to prevent any potential harm to humans or pets.

Q3. Can I Get Rid of Ground Digger Wasps Without Using Insecticides?

Yes, there are several ways to get rid of ground digger wasps without using insecticides, including pouring boiling water on the nest, using a vinegar solution, or creating a homemade wasp spray.

Q4. How Can I Tell if I Have Ground Digger Wasps Nests in My Yard?

You can identify ground digger wasp nests by looking for small mounds of dirt around the opening to their nest. The wasps themselves are typically 1/2 to 1 inch long and are black with yellow or orange markings.

Q5. When Should I Call a Pest Control Professional?

You should call a pest control professional if you have multiple nests in your yard, if you or a family member are allergic to wasp stings, or if you are uncomfortable using insecticides or DIY methods to eliminate the nests.

Kesimpulan

Ground digger wasps can be a nuisance in any yard, but with these tips, you should be able to get rid of them safely and effectively. Whether you opt for a commercial wasp spray or a DIY solution, make sure to wear protective clothing and follow all safety precautions to prevent harm to yourself or others. By taking action to eliminate ground digger wasp nests, you can enjoy a pest-free outdoor space all season long.