Missouri summers mean warm weather, outdoor fun, and—unfortunately—wasps. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or relaxing on your deck, nothing can ruin your summer vibes faster than a wasp invasion. At Bug-A-Way Pest Control, we want to help you keep your home and family safe. Use our practical checklist to stop wasps before they settle in!
1. Identify and Seal Entry Points
- Inspect eaves, siding, soffits, window and door frames for gaps.
- Seal cracks and holes with silicone caulk or expanding foam.
- Cover vent openings and utility entries with fine mesh screens to block wasp access.
2. Eliminate Food and Water Sources
- Keep outdoor garbage cans tightly closed and clean up food spills (including pet food) right away.
- Pick up fallen fruit and cover sugary drinks during outdoor gatherings.
- Remove standing water (such as birdbaths or clogged gutters) to reduce wasp attraction.
3. Regular Yard Maintenance
- Trim bushes, hedges, and tree branches near your house to reduce nesting sites.
- Clear away yard debris, old woodpiles, and clutter where wasps might shelter.
- Fill in holes or burrows in your yard—wasps like to nest underground, too.
4. Deter With Plants and Scents
- Add wasp-repellent plants like mint, marigolds, eucalyptus, citronella, thyme, and wormwood to your garden and patio pots.
- Use natural deterrents like peppermint oil or vinegar sprays around common nesting areas.
5. Set Decoys and Traps
- Hang up fake wasp nests—wasps tend to avoid areas they believe are already claimed.
- Consider DIY wasp traps placed away from living spaces using sugar water or meat as bait.
6. Early Detection and Safe Removal
- Check regularly under eaves, decks, and trees for new nests.
- Remove small starter nests early in the season, ideally at dusk or dawn when wasps are less active.
- If you find a large or active nest, especially near doors or play areas, contact professionals like Bug-A-Way Pest Control for safe removal.
7. Additional Tips for Outdoor Activities
- Avoid wearing sweet-smelling lotions and perfumes outdoors.
- Wear light-colored clothes—wasps are more attracted to dark or bright patterns.
- Cover food and drinks when eating outside to reduce invitations for scouting wasps.
When to Call the Pros
If you’re unsure about a wasp species, the nest is high or hidden, or you (or someone in your home) is allergic to stings, don’t risk it—call Bug-A-Way Pest Control. Professionals have the equipment and expertise to safely remove wasp nests and protect your property.
Enjoy a Wasp-Free Missouri Summer
By following this checklist, you’ll make your yard less inviting to Missouri’s most unwelcome summer guests. Prevention is the best protection—so take action early, and relax with peace of mind all season long!