While most people don’t experience serious side effects after a wasp sting, few homeowners want to find the insects on their property. However, social wasps frequently build their paper nests in or near houses. Here, the exterminators at Arab Termite and Pest Control of Cincinnati in Ohio explain what attracts wasps and what you can do to minimize their presence on your property.

Exterminator-Approved Tips for Keeping Wasps Away

1. Keep Trash Indoors or Away From Your House

Wasps feed on sugar and protein, making common kitchen scraps attractive food sources. Keep your trash cans in the garage or an enclosed shed or at least 20 feet away from your home to avoid attracting wasps among other pests such as ants and raccoons. In addition to keeping trash cans away from your house, make sure the can lids are tightly sealed.

2. Pick Up Around Fruit Trees

Fruit-bearing trees add beauty to a home and make it easy to enjoy fresh produce, but letting fruit fall naturally can also attract unwanted visitors. Pick up fallen fruit around the trees on a regular basis to remove a wasp food source. The insects feed exclusively on sugar at the end of the summer and will naturally come for rotting foods such as apples.

3. Reduce Water Resources

Limit water resources around your home, including standing water sources, to keep wasps away. If you use a bird bath in the garden, place it as far away from your house as possible and consider switching to a fountain model since a variety of pests, including wasps and mosquitoes, seek stagnant water.

4. Maintain Your Home’s Structure

Protect your home from pest damage by repairing all gaps in soffits, filling in crevices, and repairing damaged siding and eaves. Wasps prefer sheltered areas for building nests, making these areas common choices. Check your windows for gaps as well, so the insects do not fly into your home.

5. Avoid Bright Decor

Many homeowners fill their front yards with flowers to add color and visual appeal, but these plants can invite pests. Wasps feed on flower nectar when they cannot get sugar elsewhere, putting gardens at risk. Refrain from using brightly colored outdoor decor if you have a serious wasp problem. You may also want to transfer bright flowers around the perimeter of your home to the backyard where they’re more likely to be sheltered from pests.

In addition to the above measures, work with professional exterminators to develop an effective pest control regimen. Since 1929, Arab Termite and Pest Control of Cincinnati has helped customers keep their homes free from wasps, so they can continue enjoying their outdoor living spaces. Sign up for the company’s Golden Buckeye Program to receive 10% off already affordable services. Call (513) 385-3430 to schedule an appointment or visit the exterminators online for more information. Like the Facebook page for additional pest control tips.