Remove small paper wasp nests in early spring

Steps

1. In early spring, check eaves, porch ceilings, and overhangs for golf-ball-sized starter nests with just a few cells
2. At dusk when wasps are less active, knock the nest down with a long stick or scrape it off with a putty knife
3. Crush the nest and dispose of it in a sealed bag

Why It Works

Early-season nests have only the queen and a handful of workers. Removing them now prevents a colony of 200+ wasps by midsummer. No chemicals needed at this stage.

Tips

• Wear long sleeves and gloves as a precaution
• Check the same spots weekly through May — queens will attempt to rebuild
• A light coat of cooking spray on the attachment point discourages rebuilding