If more and more wasps cross your paths in the garden over the course of the summer, a nest may have settled. If it is planted in the garden soil, this can be quite critical. How you should behave in this case is above all: prudent and calm.
Earth wasps in the garden are not a problem in remote places
The characteristics of ground wasps
Earth wasps are not actually a species in their own right, but just a common term for wasps that nest in the ground. Species that do this are mainly the German and common wasp in Central Europe. However, they are not limited to underground shelters either - they can also find favor in higher places such as roof trusses or roller shutter boxes.
A ground wasp colony exists from about April to October. Until about August, the queen and the workers prepare the offspring of new sexual animals, i.e. males and new queens, to secure the stock in the following year. The most intensive wasp occurrence is therefore in August and September.
Wasps look for empty mouse or mole burrows or piles of stones as domiciles in the ground.
To remember:
- Ground wasps are wasps that nest in the ground seasonally
- Wasp state lasts from April to October
- Possible domiciles: mouse or mole burrows, piles of stones
How to meet the ground wasps?
Wasps are wild animals and predators with stingers that can become quite uncomfortable, especially in groups. When it comes to contact with wasps, the motto therefore applies: If possible, do not start a fight. In general, behave rather calmly and passively and avoid any annoying control measures.
Wasps are also species-protected - willful impairment, injury or killing is therefore subject to high fines. Anyone who absolutely cannot live with a ground wasp colony in the garden - for example for allergy reasons or because of small children living in the household - can obtain a control permit from the authorities and, for example, commission a beekeeper to move the nest.
Otherwise, you should tread a level-headed middle ground. On the one hand, you can take gentle repelling measures, for example by using plants and oils in the garden that smell unpleasant for wasps. Everything essential is suitable, i.e. especially herbs such as lavender, thyme or basil and oils from lemongrass or rosemary.
It also helps to lure the wasps with overripe fruit to places where they are less of a nuisance. It is best to cordon off the area around the nest and try to tolerate the animals until the fall of the state.