Q I love gardening, but twice this month I was attacked by a swarm of wasps that had their nests underground: one in the iris patch, the other in the hostas. Despite the swarm that angrily rose from the disturbed nest, I got away with only a few, but very painful, stings. Is there a way to locate potential infestations in my garden? How do I get rid of them and prevent them from coming back next year? Also, what is the best way to treat a sting?
A Underground yellowjacket nests can be very challenging to discover and treat. They are small in the spring and you probably have walked past them all summer. But there gets to be a point when the nest is large enough that the yellowjackets start to vigorously defend their colony.
Unfortunately, aerosol insecticide sprays have little impact on the yellowjackets (except for those you hit directly) and no impact on the nest itself. You need to either pour a liquid product down the opening or apply an insecticide dust directly to the nest entrance. The trick will be to find an insecticide that is approved for use in gardens. Be sure to read the label carefully to ensure you are using it properly.
Except for a newly mated queen, any surviving yellowjackets will die when freezing temperatures arrive. Existing nests are not re-used, but a queen may build a new nest in the same burrow. To prevent this, fill in the entrance holes either in late fall (once you are sure the yellowjackets have died) or early spring. This does not prevent nests from being started in other areas. Just control them as you discover them.
Sting first aid If you are stung, move away from the stinging insect, but remain as calm and quiet as possible. Movement will increase the spread of venom in your bloodstream.
If the stinger is still in your skin, remove it immediately to minimize the amount of venom you receive. You can flick it out with your finger, gently scrape it out with a butter knife or credit card, or use cellophane tape to pull it out.
For those who aren't allergic, apply ice for the swelling and take over-the-counter products such as Tylenol and Advil for pain. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) helps control itching, but it can make you sleepy. For a topical treatment, you might try an anti-itch lotion or cream.
If there is extensive swelling or you experience difficulty breathing, hoarseness, dizziness or a swollen tongue, seek medical treatment immediately. These are signs of allergic reaction and can develop within minutes or up to 24 hours after being stung. Depending on the symptoms, you may require emergency treatment.
