Are Paper Wasps Good For the Garden?
WouterDespite their reputation as stinging insects, paper wasps are actually very beneficial to gardens. These wasps are a natural pollinator of flowers and other plants. They also kill and eat insects that attack plants. They are also good for vegetable gardens.
Paper wasps can be very aggressive, especially when threatened. They will sting to protect their nest. Then they release a pheromone, which is a warning that they are being attacked. They may also carry a dead insect to their nest. This can make them dangerous to humans. If you aren’t allergic to wasp stings, you can apply vinegar or a solution of acidic compounds to neutralize the sting.
The paper wasp species is aggressive during the fall. This is when paper wasps build their nests. They build a round nest that is made from paper they make by chewing up wood. They then scavenge for food, such as caterpillars. They also eat other insects, such as beetle larvae. These insects are very good food for other animals, especially ants.
When the paper wasp colony dies, only the fertile queen survives. These queens lay male and female eggs and will mate. They then overwinter in sheltered locations. In spring, they will re-establish a new colony.
When you find a paper wasp nest, you can remove it safely. You can also use a broom to knock it down. If the nest is too large, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
