How to naturally keep hornets out of your garden
5:49 PM EDT, July 20, 2024
Hornets are not only troublesome but also pose a threat to allergy sufferers. The venom they secrete contains acetylcholine. A sting can cause anaphylactic shock in people who are allergic. How can you drive them away from the garden?
Hornets are insects that induce fear. They are generally not aggressive, but when they feel threatened, they can attack. It turns out there are ways to keep them out of your yard. Find out how to drive them away using natural methods and appropriately selected plants.
How to recognize hornets?
Hornets are large insects that can be mistaken for larger species of wasps. How can you recognize them? Hornets are much bigger, reaching 1 to 1.4 inches, and emitting a characteristic sound while flying.
Their sting is long and sharp, and the venom can cause anaphylactic shock in allergic individuals.
Hornets play an important part in the ecosystem. They feed on pests, such as ticks and aphids, and they also pollinate flowers. They should not be killed, only driven away.
How to deter hornets?
It's worth planting plants that hornets avoid. This way, you can enjoy peace and relax in the garden without the fear of uninvited guests.
On the list of scents that deter hornets are, among others, peppermint and garlic. These insects also don't like the aroma of burned coffee, cloves, and citrus fruits. So, it’s worth putting lemon slices or individual cloves on the terrace or garden gazebo. To protect yourself from insects, plant thyme, lavender, or pelargonium. These are natural deterrents.
Also, remember that the smell of sweet drinks and fruits attracts hornets, so you need to be especially careful when eating meals in the garden. Don’t leave leftovers uncovered. Hornets are more likely to visit yards where, among other things, lilacs, apple trees, and pear trees bloom.