To get rid of yellow jackets effectively and safely, follow these key methods:
Identifying and Locating Nests
- Yellow jackets are most active during the day; observe where workers enter and exit to find nests.
- Nests may be underground or in cavities; look for small holes with wasp activity
Treatment Timing and Safety
- Treat nests at night when yellow jackets are less active to reduce sting risk and ensure most of the colony is present
- Wear protective clothing to avoid stings during treatment
Methods to Eliminate Yellow Jackets
1. Insecticide Aerosols and Dusts
- Use pyrethrum aerosols (e.g., Stryker 54 Contact Aerosol or PT 565) to spray directly into the nest entrance at night; these kill yellow jackets on contact by filling the nest cavity with gas.
- After spraying, wait 10-15 minutes for the aerosol to dry, then apply insecticide dust (e.g., Tempo Dust) to the nest entrance and surrounding areas to prevent re-infestation.
- Repeat treatment if activity continues
2. Soapy Water or Dishwashing Detergent
- Mix 1 cup of dishwashing detergent with about 5 gallons of water.
- Pour or spray this solution into the nest entrance after dusk; the detergent clogs the wasps' breathing tubes and breaks down their exoskeleton, causing them to drown.
- This method is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and good for small infestations or as a supplementary treatment
3. Dry Ice
- Break dry ice into small pieces and place it into the nest entrance, then cover the hole quickly to trap the carbon dioxide, which suffocates the yellow jackets.
- This is effective especially for partially underground nests
4. Yellow Jacket Traps and Baits
- Use bait stations with protein-based baits in spring and summer, switching to carbohydrate baits in fall.
- Place traps away from areas where people gather to lure yellow jackets away safely
5. Other Home Remedies
- Peppermint oil spray can repel yellow jackets; mix a few drops with water and spray around nests and problem areas
- Some anecdotal reports mention WD-40 spray on nests as a kill method and deterrent, but insecticides are more reliable
Prevention Tips
- Keep outdoor trash cans clean and tightly closed.
- Clean up spilled food and drinks promptly.
- Store pet food in airtight containers.
- Avoid floral-scented products outdoors.
- Regularly clean outdoor areas with soapy water to reduce attractants
Summary
For best results, locate the nest during the day and treat it at night using pyrethrum aerosol followed by insecticide dust. For smaller or less accessible nests, soapy water or dish detergent solutions can be effective. Use traps and baits to reduce foraging yellow jackets and practice good sanitation to prevent re-infestation
