How to prevent being stung by a wasp
Sep 8, 2023, 11:41 AM | Updated: Sep 15, 2023, 12:39 pm
The wasp population we’re seeing now is less than normal, but the numbers will start to grow in the fall. When this time comes, certain species become more aggressive to protect their food and gardeners become more likely to be stung by a wasp. (Canva)
(Canva)
SALT LAKE CITY — Outdoor gardening can present a few obstacles for humans, including sunburn, muscle fatigue, and being stung by a wasp. KSL Greenhouse host Maria Shilaos said she’s been stung recently and knows of others who have, too.
What’s happening? Is this the attack of the wasps?
Last week on the KSL Greenhouse show, hosts Taun Bennes and Maria Shilaos discussed some ways you can protect yourself and your garden from wasps.
Actually, the wasp population we’re seeing now is less than normal Bennes said. But he expects their numbers will start to grow in the fall.
Certain wasps become more aggressive around this time. They are protecting their food and are more likely to sting.
“All of them are trying to accumulate food to store for the winter if they overwinter that way, especially honeybees,” Bennes said.
While many people want to attract honeybees, it’s a different story when it comes to wasps. We don’t want to get stung by a wasp. The good news is that they will leave you alone as long as you’re not a threat to them.
“If you have a wasp nest in a tree in the back forty that’s not hurting anybody, just leave them alone,” Bennes said.
Avoid being stung by a wasp, get rid of them
If they’re a nuisance, you need to take a stand against wasps.
“Spray them, if you can get to them, after the sun goes down. That will knock them out,” Bennes said. “If you have them in areas you can’t spray, after the sun goes down you can try some spray foam insulation that you can get in a can—almost like a can of hairspray but with foam,” Bennes said.
The spray foam is made specifically for this purpose. It will seal wasps inside their next, and then you can cut off any foam that comes out.
However, while this method may sound simple it could also be dangerous and end badly. To prevent harming yourself, Bennes suggests calling a professional to help.
The KSL Greenhouse is on every Saturday from 8 a.m.-11 a.m. You can follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and on our website.
