Pesky Wasps and Your Patio Umbrella
Nothing ruins a relaxing day on your patio quite like a swarm of pesky wasps. Not only are they annoying, but they can also be dangerous if someone in your household is allergic to their stings. One of the most common places you’ll find wasps is under your patio umbrella. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to keep them away and enjoy your outdoor space in peace.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Color for Your Umbrella
Believe it or not, the color of your patio umbrella can make a big difference in whether or not wasps are attracted to it. Wasps are drawn to bright colors, especially yellow and white. If possible, choose a darker-colored umbrella, such as green or blue, to help deter them. Additionally, avoid wearing bright colors while sitting under your umbrella, as this can also attract wasps.
Tip 2: Keep Your Umbrella Clean and Dry
Wasps are attracted to sugary substances, so it’s important to keep your patio umbrella clean and free of any food or drink spills. Wipe down the surface regularly with a damp cloth and allow it to dry completely before using it. If you do spill something, clean it up immediately and move your table and chairs away from the umbrella until it’s dry.
Tip 3: Use Essential Oils for Natural Repellents
Many essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender, are natural wasp repellents. Mix a few drops of your favorite oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz it around your patio umbrella. You can also soak a cotton ball in the oil and place it on a small dish near your umbrella. Just be sure to keep the oil away from any food or drinks.
Tip 4: Place Cucumber Slices Around Your Umbrella
Believe it or not, wasps don’t like the smell of cucumbers. Slice up a few cucumbers and place them in a small dish near your patio umbrella. You can also rub a cucumber slice along the inside of your umbrella for added protection. Replace the slices every few days to keep the scent fresh.
Tip 5: Hang a Fake Wasp Nest Near Your Umbrella
Wasps are territorial creatures and will avoid areas where they think other wasps are already nesting. Hang a fake wasp nest near your patio umbrella to trick them into thinking there’s already a colony in the area. You can easily find these nests online or at your local hardware store.
Tip 6: Make a DIY Wasp Trap for Your Patio
If all else fails, you can make a simple trap to catch any remaining wasps. Cut the top off a plastic bottle and invert it so that the opening is facing downward. Fill the bottom of the bottle with a mixture of sugar water and vinegar. The sweet scent will attract the wasps, and they’ll become trapped inside the bottle.
Tip 7: Create a Smoke Barrier with Citronella Candles
Citronella candles not only repel mosquitoes, but they also create a smoke barrier that can deter wasps. Place a few candles around your patio umbrella to keep them at bay. Just be sure to keep the candles away from any flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
Tip 8: Set Up a Fan to Keep Wasps Away
Finally, wasps are not strong fliers and can easily be blown away by a gentle breeze. Set up a small fan near your patio umbrella to create an airflow that will keep them away. Plus, it will also help keep you cool on hot summer days!
Enjoy Your Wasp-free Outdoor Space!
By following these tips, you can keep wasps away from your patio umbrella and enjoy your outdoor space without any pesky interruptions. Remember to choose the right color for your umbrella, keep it clean and dry, use natural repellents, and try out some DIY tricks to deter wasps. With a little effort, you can create a peaceful and relaxing environment for you and your loved ones.
