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Plant This Fragrant Herb To Keep Wasps Out Of Your Garden
By BROOKE YOUNGER
Wasps, including paper wasps and yellowjackets, are notoriously territorial and can be a nuisance in gardens. However, growing rosemary can help keep these aggressive insects away.
A 2013 study published in Pest Management Science tested 21 essential oils for their ability to repel yellowjackets and found rosemary to be among the most effective options.
Rosemary thrives in well-draining soil, warm temperatures, and full sunlight. To deter vespids, plant the herb in containers and place them around areas prone to wasp activity.
For even better results, you can burn or crush a few rosemary leaves to release their wasp-repelling compounds or rub the herb directly on your skin for added protection.
You can also make a rosemary essential oil spray and apply it around areas where wasps frequent, but avoid using it directly on the insects or their nest to prevent provoking them.