How to manage mud wasps on brick patio?

DolceVita

Every summer we get so many mud wasp nests on our brick patio, and right near our door. ( We have cleaned away all old nests now.)

How is the best way to deter them from building in the patio? We now have a catio on part of the patio so am concerned about cat safety and don’t want to use any products that are dangerous for cats.

In past summers there have been many wasps flying around the patio and my kids just won’t go outside when that happens. I really want to be able to use the patio and coexisting just isn’t possible. There are loads of other sheltered places around other areas of the house but they keep choosing the ones that are the least ideal for us!!

Is there anything I can do?

Thanks.

JacobZ

Hi @DolceVita,

Unfortunately, there isn't really a simple product that you can apply to the area that will reliably stop mud wasps from returning, and with your catio and children using the patio, I'd be particularly reluctant to recommend routinely spraying insecticides or other chemicals around the area.

Mud wasps tend to look for sheltered, protected locations where their mud nests won't be disturbed by rain and weather, which is likely why your covered patio is proving so attractive to them. I'd suggest keeping a close eye on their usual nesting locations as the weather warms up and removing the beginnings of new nests before they become established. If you can identify particular corners, gaps or recesses they repeatedly use, you could also look at physically blocking access with insect mesh or sealing suitable gaps where practical.

Another thing worth investigating is where they are collecting their mud. If you have persistently damp or muddy areas nearby, improving drainage or allowing those areas to dry out may make your property a little less attractive as a nesting location.

If you're getting large numbers of wasps every summer despite these measures, I think your best option would be to speak with a licensed pest controller. Explain that you have children and a cat using the patio so they can recommend an appropriate treatment or exclusion strategy that takes this into account.

Allow me to tag some helpful members to see if they have any advice they can offer - @mich1972, @Noelle, @Dave-1, @Noyade.

Jacob