5 Steps to Keep Beehives and Wasp Nests Off Your Property
Summer has once again returned and with it, as always, are swarms of bees and wasps seeking to build themselves a home. Bees and wasps know that the best place to make THEIR homes is on or adjacent to YOUR home.
Here are three easy steps to limit the risk of bees or wasps choosing your property to set up shop:
Step 1: Identify Problem Areas
Identifying which areas of your property are most at risk of having a hive built is an important step to reducing that likelihood. Porch ceilings, overhangs, or any eaves outside on your property are all at risk of playing host to these pests. Bees and wasps opt for a sturdy location with a horizontal structure and often prefer corner areas for their hives/nests since they are more protected.
Step 2: Move Your Trash Cans
Keeping your trashcans edged against your property puts you at a much bigger risk of a hive or nest being built. Instead, store bins in the garage if you have one. If not, move the bins close to the curb and away from the property. This will improve your chances of deterring these swarms considerably.
Step 3: Dispose of Fallen Fruit
If you have fruit trees near your property, you are at a much bigger risk. Wasps love sweets and fallen fruit is their summer favorite. If you see fallen fruit on your property, be sure to pick it up and dispose of it quickly.
Step 4: Limit Their Water Supply
Much like mosquitoes, bees and wasps are attracted to open water sources. Inflatable pools are a staple of summer, but once you are finished with them you need to drain the water as soon as possible. If it rains, be sure water didn’t collect in any open containers or bins outside. Water bowls for pets should also be kept inside or given limited time outside your property.
Step 5: Beware of Floral Decorations
It should come as no shock that these pests love flowers. Often times, they can be easily tricked by brightly colored or floral decorations such as tapestries, patio cushions, or murals. By keeping this decor away from the edges of your property or removing them all together, you may save yourself a lot of hassle down the line.
These steps will certainly lessen the chances of a hive or nest being built on your property. Unfortunately, there is no solution that is 100% effective and you still may end up with a swarm on your hands. If this is the case, for the safety of yourself and your family/employees, it is HEAVILY advised that you seek professional treatment immediately. At UnBugMe Pest Control, we are happy to provide an array of affordable treatments for infestations.