Nothing ruins a relaxing afternoon in the garden like a swarm of wasps. These stinging pests can disrupt your outdoor fun and pose a risk to anyone with allergies. Luckily, there’s a natural way to keep wasps at bay.
Many plants have built-in wasp-repelling properties that can help you maintain a wasp-free zone. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best wasp repellent plants and show you how to incorporate them into your garden for a more pleasant and safe outdoor experience.
For trusted pest control solutions in the San Francisco, San Jose, and East Bay Area, contact the experts at Banner Pest Services!
Wasps in California
Before we get into the plants that can help keep wasps away, let’s look at the types of wasps you might encounter in the San Francisco area.
- Paper Wasps: These wasps are usually non-aggressive unless their nests are threatened. They build open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves and overhangs.
- Yellow Jackets: Yellow jackets are aggressive pests that can sting multiple times. They are often found scavenging for food at picnics and trash cans. Unlike paper wasps, they build their nests in hidden, enclosed spaces like wall voids or underground burrows.
- Mud Daubers: These solitary wasps are less aggressive and prey on spiders and other pests. They build small mud nests on walls, eaves, and other structures.
Top Wasp Repellent Plants
Let’s explore some of the best plants to keep wasps at bay and learn how to incorporate them into your outdoor space or garden!
- Mint
Mint is a hardy herb that thrives in sunny to partially shaded spots with well-drained soil. You can keep it hydrated with regular watering. However, we suggest planting it in containers or other designated areas to prevent it from taking over your garden.
To maximize mint’s natural repellent properties, crush a few leaves and rub them on your skin or clothing before heading outside. Alternatively, place pots of mint outdoors or hang bunches of dried mint to create a barrier against unwanted wasp visitors.
- Lavender
Lavender thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil, making it a perfect addition to San Francisco, San Jose, and Bay Area gardens with ample sunlight. Unlike other plants, lavender is relatively low-maintenance and only requires minimal watering and pruning. To prevent mildew, make sure to provide proper air circulation for this plant.
While lavender is irresistible to us, it’s not a favorite of wasps, making it an excellent choice for natural pest control. We suggest planting lavender around outdoor seating areas, entryways, or other spots where wasps tend to gather.
- Citronella
This wasp repellent plant similarly blossoms in sunny and warm conditions and grows well in well-drained soil. Citronella can survive in most conditions but develops better with a regular watering schedule.
To prevent wasps from taking over your backyard, crush a few leaves to release the refreshing scent or infuse citronella oil into candles and sprays for added protection. Whether in pots or directly in the soil, citronella adds a touch of natural charm to any outdoor setting.
- Marigolds
These flowers require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for novice and experienced gardeners. Plant them in borders, containers, or within other garden favorites you already have.
The distinct scent of marigolds can act as a natural repellent against wasps and other unwelcome insects, helping create a barrier around your garden or backyard rest area. Place them near entryways, outdoor seating areas, or vegetable patches to keep pests at bay while adding a pop of color to your outdoor space.
- Basil
Basil grows best in sunny spots with regular watering and occasional pruning to keep the plant flourishing. Try planting basil in garden beds, pots, or window boxes to keep wasps away and provide yourself with a quick kitchen ingredient.
Beyond its culinary prowess, basil’s aromatic oils naturally repel wasps and other insects, making it an effective deterrent for your garden. We suggest strategically planting basil around outdoor seating areas, entryways, and windows, which can help keep pests at bay while enhancing the ambiance of your outdoor environment.
Planting Wasp Repellent Plants in Your California Backyard
Follow these steps for success whenever you plan to incorporate wasp repellent plants in your garden or around your home:
- Choose the Right Location: Select sunny spots with well-draining soil for plants like lavender, mint, basil, and citronella. These plants thrive in warm, sunny climates and tolerate the mild winters common in the Bay Area.
- Prepare the Soil: Before planting, mix compost or aged manure into the soil to provide essential nutrients for plant growth.
- Planting Techniques: For container planting, choose pots with drainage holes and fill them with a well-draining potting mix—plant one herb or flower per pot for proper spacing.
For garden beds, space plants according to their mature size, leaving enough room for air circulation and growth. Dig holes slightly larger than the plant’s root ball and backfill with soil, gently firming the soil around the plant’s base.
- Watering and Maintenance: Water newly planted herbs and flowers regularly to help establish robust root systems. Afterward, continue to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Add mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Take a look at this guide to learn more about gardening in the San Francisco area and how to care for your plants based on our climate.
Wasp Pest Control in the San Francisco, San Jose, and East Bay Area
Sometimes, wasp repellent plants aren’t enough to keep wasps away from your home. If you’re struggling with wasp infestations and DIY alternatives aren’t working, contact us here at Banner Pest Services!
