The UK has seen a number of sightings of Asian hornets in recent years, and it seems the pests have survived the winter – meaning they could be around for good
Last year, the UK witnessed several sightings of Asian hornets and despite hopes that the British winter would eradicate them, these pests have persisted, suggesting they’re here to stay. This spells trouble for British gardeners who will need to take measures to deter these invaders if they wish to enjoy their gardens this summer and safeguard local wildlife.
Asian hornets are particularly troublesome; they’ve decimated honeybee colonies across Europe, capable of killing up to 50 bees a day. Their sting can also be quite severe for humans, especially for those with allergies.
Andy Simms from MyBuilder emphasises that prevention is crucial when dealing with Asian hornets, reports the Express.
He said: “While it’s currently unlikely that most of us in the UK will see any Asian hornets, like any pests, it’s harder to get rid of them once they’ve arrived than it is to prevent them in the first place. Any sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornets Watch app.
“Removing food remnants and rubbish is a simple step to take, but for increased protection you should check the seals on your windows and for any gaps in our brickwork.
“It seems like Asian Hornets are here in the UK to stay now, so proper measures may become necessary – and are useful to prevent other pests, too.”
One method to deter Asian hornets from invading your garden is through strategic planting. Certain plants emit a scent that hornets find rather unpleasant, making them less likely to linger if you have these plants.
Experts suggest planting spearmint and lemongrass, which not only deter hornets but also support pollinators like bees and butterflies.
These plants should be positioned in areas where you most want to keep hornets at bay, such as around the perimeters of patios or near seating areas.
It’s also crucial to seal off any potential entry points to your home. The eaves and soffits (overhanging parts of a roof) of your property can develop cracks over time, providing perfect entry points for Asian hornets seeking sheltered spots away from predators.
To prevent this, fill in any cracks, then sand and paint the area once it’s dry. If this task seems too daunting, don’t hesitate to call a local roofer for assistance.