How to Treat for Ground Wasps
Ground wasps tend to choose the old tunnels and burrows that belonged to other yard pests such as moles or gophers. Since ground wasps can be aggressive and sting, they can be especially disconcerting to homeowners, and you will want to get rid of them. They are best treated by a professional exterminator; however, there are several methods for getting rid of them yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Insecticides
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1
Choose an insecticide from your local hardware store. Look for an insecticide that includes carbaryl as a dust or liquid concentrate, chlorpyrifos as a dust, acephate as a liquid concentrate or diazinon as a liquid concentrate. Dusts are usually more effective since they penetrate deeper into the nests; however, either can be used. Make sure whatever insecticide you use that is approved for use in lawns.
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Mix the insecticide according to package directions.
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3
Locate the nest. Look for places the wasps are frequenting.
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4
Apply the insecticide directly to the hole, according to package directions.
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Repeat multiple treatments as necessary.
Soap Method
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Locate the nest. Generally, they nest in old rodent holes. Look for the wasps coming and going from the hole.
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Mix 1 gallon of laundry detergent or dish detergent with 1 gallon of water.
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Pour the detergent mixture directly into the hole.
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Repeat the application the next day, if needed.
Bowl Method
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10
Locate all entrances for the nest. There might be multiple entrances so be aware of any spots in your lawn that you see large amounts of wasps congregating.
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Place a large glass mixing bowl upside down over top of the hole. Use one bowl per entrance.
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Press the bowl into the ground slightly so there are no spaces for the wasps to escape.
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Leave the bowls in place for several weeks. This will prevent the wasps from escaping and they will not dig new entrances, eventually killing them.
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Tips & Warnings
All treatments are best applied at night when the wasps have returned to the nest and are not very active. Plus, at night when the weather is cooler, the wasps will be less aggressive. It is also best to wait until June, if possible, since the queen has already began populating her nest; however, she is not done so there are not as many wasps as in later months.
After all treatments, cover the hole to the nest with soil once you are sure the wasps are completely gone. This will prevent future colonies from setting up a hive there.
Wasps can become aggressive and sting. You should use great caution when treating a wasp's nest. Wear long sleeves and long pants. Wear closed-toed shoes and gloves. Wear a ski cap that covers your face to protect that delicate skin.
