While wasps play a significant role in the ecosystem, there really is no need for them to swarm and build hives on your apartment balcony.
Did you know that wasps can actually be quite dangerous to human beings? Their stings are extremely painful, and they tend to sting multiple times.
In some cases, wasp stings can even be fatal and might require you to make an urgent trip to the ER!
So, if you’re worried about wasps and want to make sure that your balcony is a safe and comfortable place where you can spend your time unbothered, let’s take a look at a few steps you can take in order to keep wasps away from your balcony and prevent them from coming near.
We’ll also look at what can be done to get rid of wasps in case they try to make a home on your balcony.
Identifying Wasps and Their Behavior
As we learn how to keep wasps away from our apartment balcony, it is important to first understand what we are dealing with.
Wasps are a type of flying insect that can be easily identified by their slender, elongated bodies, narrow waist, and two pairs of wings.
They are typically black, brown, or yellow in color and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
Identifying Different Types of Wasps
There are several different types of wasps that we may encounter, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common types of wasps include:
- Paper Wasps: These wasps are named for the paper-like nests that they build, which are typically found hanging from eaves, porch ceilings, or other sheltered areas. They are slender and brown with yellow markings.
- Yellow Jackets: These wasps are often mistaken for bees due to their black and yellow striped bodies. They are aggressive and can be found nesting in the ground, in walls, or in other protected areas.
- European Hornets: These large wasps are brown with yellow markings and can grow up to 1.5 inches in length. They are typically found in wooded areas and build their nests in hollow trees or other protected areas.
- Bald-Faced Hornets: These wasps are black with white markings and can grow up to 1 inch in length. They build large, paper-like nests that are often found in trees or on the sides of buildings.
Understanding Wasp Behavior
In order to keep wasps away from our apartment balcony, it is important to understand their behavior.
Wasps are social insects that live in colonies, with each colony consisting of a queen and several workers.
The queen is responsible for laying eggs, while the workers are responsible for building the nest, gathering food, and caring for the young.
Wasps are attracted to sweet smells, so it is important to keep food and drinks covered when outside.
They are also territorial and will become aggressive if they feel threatened, so it is important to avoid swatting at them or disturbing their nests.
By understanding the different types of wasps and their behavior, we can take steps to keep them away from our apartment balcony and enjoy the outdoors without fear of getting stung.
How to Keep Wasps Away from Your Balcony
If you want to enjoy your summer and have fun with the kids out on your balcony, the last thing you need is wasps swarming around.
Here are five simple ways in which you can prevent wasps from coming near your balcony.
Keep Your Balcony Clean and Uncluttered
Keeping your balcony as clean as possible and avoiding clutter reduces the chances of attracting wasps or giving them space to make nests.
If there are any spills or messes, clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Check the walls and floors for holes and cracks and seal them up tightly.
You can use caulking or silicone to ensure that there are no small gaps in which wasps can nest.
Don’t Leave Out Any Food
Wasp season typically lasts from July to September. During this time, try not to eat food out on the balcony. If you do, make sure not to leave any food out that might attract wasps.
Foods like meat, fruits, juices, and sweets are very attractive to wasps. Once you’re done eating, be sure to clean up any leftovers or crumbs.
Keep Wasp Repelling Plants On Your Balcony
The plants you keep and grow on your balcony play a big role in the kind of insects you attract.
For example, wasps and other insects like bees love flowering plants that produce nectar.
If you have any such plants, getting rid of them would be a good idea. Instead, you can try keeping plants that specifically repel wasps.
Certain herbs are especially good for repelling wasps. Some of the herbs you can keep include:
- Eucalyptus
- Thyme
- Lemongrass
- Spearmint
- Citronella
Most of these herbs are very good at repelling wasps and other insects because they produce oily substances that are strongly scented.
Make Use of Essential Oils
Essential oils can be used as natural wasp repellants and give you the added benefit of keeping your balcony smelling fresh and calming.
You can add a few drops of essential oils – clove, lemongrass, and geranium – to a spray bottle along with some water and dishwashing liquid.
Give it a good mix, and then spray it all around your balcony.
Make sure to spray along all the surfaces and in small spaces where wasps might try to build their nests.
You should also spray it along the floors if you have a particularly big balcony.
Use Wasp Repellant Sprays
Lastly, if you are someone who suffers from a wasp allergy or if you tend to have serious reactions to insects, consider buying yourself a wasp-repellant spray that you can put on your clothes and your skin.
You can easily find these sprays at most pharmacies or general stores.
Keep the spray bottle out on the balcony so that you always remember to put it on when you need to.
Additionally, you can also make your own spray using essential oils diluted with a bit of water.
As mentioned above, go for lemongrass, clove, and geranium essential oils.
You can also try thyme or spearmint if you prefer. A homemade spray with essential oils is also safe to use on young children and pets.
Making Traps
Another natural way to repel wasps is to make traps. One option is to create a fake wasp nest out of paper bags and hang it on your balcony.
Wasps are territorial and will avoid areas where they think other wasps already live. Another option is to use pheromone-based traps, which attract wasps and then trap them.
You can also make your own trap by mixing dish soap and water in a shallow dish. Wasps are attracted to standing water, but the soap will break the surface tension and cause them to drown.
By using these natural methods, we can effectively repel wasps from our apartment balcony without resorting to harmful chemicals.
Whether it’s using essential oils, planting repelling plants, or making traps, there are plenty of options available to keep wasps away.
How to Get Rid of Wasps
We discussed how you could prevent attracting wasps to your balcony. But what if you already have a wasp problem or have wasps making nests on your balcony?
What can be done then?
Let’s take a look at five ways to get rid of any wasps you might have on your apartment balcony.
Sprinkle Baby Powder Around the Balcony
While this may seem too simple and too good to be true, sprinkling a bit of baby powder all around your balcony and near a wasp’s nest is a great way to repel wasps and make them go away.
This is because one of the primary ingredients in baby powder is talcum powder, which is a very effective wasp-repellent.
All you have to do is sprinkle the baby powder directly from the bottle onto any area where you have seen wasps.
Try Using a Fake Wasp Nest
Wasps and other swarming insects like hornets are very territorial and do not like to nest in places where there is already another nest present.
So, if you see wasps around your balcony and are worried they might start nesting there, you can hang up a fake wasp nest to trick them into leaving.
When the insects see the fake nest, they will believe that it is real and be discouraged from nesting nearby.
You can find fake wasp nests online on sites like Amazon or Etsy or check out any home stores that keep pest-repelling items in stock.
Use Apple Cider Vinegar Traps
You probably already have a bottle of apple cider vinegar in your kitchen.
But did you know that you can also use it as a way to make traps for and kill wasps on your balcony?
What you need to do is get a big bottle or a container with a small opening and fill it up with a liter of water, half a cup of apple cider vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap.
Put a bit of jam or any other sweet spread you have lying around the house on the opening of the bottle or container.
This will attract the wasps and get them to fly into the bottle or container.
Once the wasps get wet, they won’t be able to fly back out and will slowly die.
After a few hours, check to make sure all the wasps are dead, and then you can empty out the container.
Seal Up the Nests
Wasps tend to spend the evenings and nights safely holed away in their nests.
Pick a time when you know most of the wasps are inside the nest, and then try to seal the nest up.
Before you attempt this, make sure to use protective measures like thick clothes, goggles to protect your eyes, a mask to protect your face, and thick gloves.
Once you’re prepared, approach the nest and try to find the openings in it. You can seal up these openings using soil or clay.
You could also use a large plastic bag to cover the entire nest and seal it up so that the wasps are unable to get out and eventually suffocate.
Leave the sealed nest alone for a day or two to ensure the wasps are all dead, and then remove it from your balcony.
Hire Professionals for an Extermination
Lastly, if none of these home remedies are working out for you and your wasp problem is getting out of control, or even if you simply do not wish to deal with the problem on your own, you should hire some professionals to take care of the matter for you.
You can get in touch with pest control and removal specialists who have the training and the relevant tools to deal with a wasp infestation.
Discuss Professional Pest Control Options in More Detail
If you have tried all the DIY methods and still can’t keep wasps away from your apartment balcony, it might be time to consider professional pest control options. Here are a few options to consider:
Hiring a Pest Control Company
Hiring a pest control company is the most effective way to get rid of wasps from your balcony.
They have the expertise and equipment to identify the type of wasps and the best way to eliminate them.
Professional pest control companies use a variety of methods, including insecticides, traps, and physical removal, to get rid of wasp infestations.
They can also provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent future infestations.
Chemical Treatments
Chemical treatments are another effective way to get rid of wasps. Pest control companies use insecticides to kill wasps and their nests.
However, chemical treatments can be harmful to the environment and other animals, so it’s important to hire a professional pest control company that uses eco-friendly products.
Natural Predators
Some pest control companies use natural predators, such as birds and insects, to get rid of wasp infestations.
This method is eco-friendly and safe for other animals. However, it may not be as effective as chemical treatments.
Preventative Measures
Preventative measures are the most effective way to keep wasps away from your apartment balcony.
Professional pest control companies can provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent future infestations.
They can also seal up any cracks or holes where wasps can enter your apartment.
In conclusion, if you have tried all the DIY methods and still can’t keep wasps away from your apartment balcony, it might be time to consider professional pest control options.
Hiring a pest control company, chemical treatments, natural predators, and preventative measures are all effective ways to get rid of wasp infestations.
Address Wasp Deterrent Products
When it comes to keeping wasps away from your apartment balcony, there are several products that can help. Here are some options to consider:
Wasp Repellent Sprays
Wasp-repellent sprays are a popular option for keeping wasps away. These sprays typically contain chemicals that deter wasps from coming near your balcony.
However, it’s important to use these products carefully and follow the instructions on the label. Some sprays can be harmful to humans and pets, so it’s important to use them with caution.
Wasp Traps
Wasp traps are another effective way to keep wasps away from your balcony. These traps typically use a sweet liquid to attract wasps, then trap them inside.
You can purchase pre-made wasp traps or make your own using a plastic bottle and some sweet liquid.
However, it’s important to empty the traps regularly to prevent a buildup of dead wasps.
Decoy Nests
Decoy nests are another option for keeping wasps away from your balcony. These fake nests are designed to look like real wasp nests, which can deter wasps from building their own nests nearby.
However, it’s important to note that this method may not be effective in all cases, as some wasps may not be deterred by decoy nests.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as peppermint, lemongrass, and citronella are known to repel wasps. You can use these oils in a diffuser or mix them with water and spray them around your balcony.
However, it’s important to note that essential oils may not be as effective as other methods, and you may need to reapply them frequently.
Overall, there are several products available that can help keep wasps away from your apartment balcony.
By using these products and taking other preventative measures, such as keeping your balcony clean and free of food scraps, you can enjoy your outdoor space without the worry of wasps.
Alternative Methods for Nest Removal
Sometimes, it may not be possible or safe to remove a wasp nest on your own. In such cases, it is best to seek professional help. Here are some alternative methods for nest removal:
- Calling a professional pest control service: If you are unsure about how to remove a wasp nest, it is best to call a professional pest control service. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to remove the nest safely and effectively.
- Using smoke: Smoke can be used to disorient the wasps and make them less aggressive. You can use a smoke bomb or a smoker to generate smoke and direct it toward the nest. However, this method can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced individuals.
- Using water: If the nest is located near a water source, you can use a hose to spray water on it. The force of the water can knock down the nest and disperse the wasps. However, this method may not be effective for larger nests.
- Using insecticides: Insecticides can be used to kill the wasps and destroy the nest. However, this method should only be attempted by individuals who are familiar with the proper use of insecticides. It is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully and wear protective clothing to avoid exposure to the chemicals.
Remember, removing a wasp nest can be dangerous and should be done with caution. If you are unsure about how to proceed, it is best to seek professional help.
Bottom Lime
Your apartment balcony can and should be the perfect place for you to relax, spend time outside, and enjoy the sun and fresh air with your friends and family.
The last thing you need is to worry about wasps and other insects making your balcony unsafe or unpleasant to spend time in.
Remember, wasps sting hard and tend to swarm. Their stings can cause serious reactions, especially to children and pets.
Whether you have been thinking of taking preventative measures to keep wasps away, or whether you already have a wasp problem and would like to solve it, we have listed down everything you might want to consider doing.
We hope that you benefit from this article and are able to solve your wasp problems in order to enjoy your apartment balcony to the fullest!
Conclusion
We hope that these tips will help you keep wasps away from your apartment balcony.
Remember that wasps are attracted to food, water, and shelter, so it’s important to keep your balcony clean and tidy.
If you have any food or drinks outside, make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs right away.
One of the most effective ways to keep wasps away is to remove any sources of standing water. This can include bird baths, pet water bowls, and even small puddles.
If you have plants on your balcony, make sure to water them in the morning so that any excess water has time to evaporate before the evening.
Another way to keep wasps away is to plant certain types of plants that they don’t like.
These can include lemongrass, clove, citronella, sage, wormwood, geraniums, thyme, rosemary, and wintergreen.
Not only will these plants help repel wasps naturally, but you can also use them for medicinal and edible purposes.
If you do find a wasp nest on your balcony, it’s important to call a professional to remove it. Trying to remove the nest yourself can be dangerous and may result in getting stung.
Additionally, if you are allergic to wasp stings, it’s important to carry an EpiPen with you at all times.
Remember that wasps play an important role in our ecosystem, so it’s important to respect them and avoid killing them whenever possible.
By following these tips, you can keep wasps away from your apartment balcony and enjoy your outdoor space without any unwanted visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What plants repel wasps?
Certain plants have been known to repel wasps due to their strong scent. Some of these plants include mint, eucalyptus, citronella, and lemongrass. Planting these around your balcony can help keep wasps away.
How do I make a homemade wasp repellent?
One simple homemade wasp repellent is a mixture of water and peppermint oil. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it around your balcony.
Wasps do not like the scent of peppermint and will avoid the area.
What are some natural ways to keep wasps away?
Aside from planting repellent plants and using homemade repellents, there are other natural ways to keep wasps away.
Keeping your balcony clean and free of food scraps and garbage can help prevent wasps from being attracted to the area. Additionally, hanging fake wasp nests can deter wasps from building their own nests in the area.
How do I remove a wasp nest from my balcony?
Removing a wasp nest can be dangerous and should be done by a professional. Contact a pest control company to safely remove the nest from your balcony.
What are some common attractants for wasps?
Wasps are attracted to sweet smells, so any food or drink with a sweet scent can attract them. Garbage and food scraps can also attract wasps, so it is important to keep your balcony clean and free of these items.
What materials can I use to make a fake wasp nest?
A fake wasp nest can be made using materials such as brown paper bags or plastic bags filled with crumpled paper. Hang the fake nest in a visible area on your balcony to deter wasps from building their own nests in the area.
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