When it comes to dealing with wasps, you don’t have to overthink or overcomplicate things.

A simple trap made from a plastic bottle, a little beer, and syrup is all you need to keep these pesky insects under control.

Here’s how it works and why it’s effective.

Why Wasps Are a Problem

Wasps can pose a real threat to your bees and even disrupt the balance of your garden, especially during autumn.

Here’s why wasps are considered a problem:

Aggressive Behavior: Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times and tend to be more aggressive, especially when they feel their territory is threatened.

This can make them a danger to you, your family, and your bees.

Predation on Bees: Some wasp species, like yellow jackets and hornets, are known to attack honeybees.

They can invade hives, kill bees, and steal honey and brood, weakening or even destroying a colony.

Competing for Resources: Wasps compete with bees and other beneficial insects for nectar and other food sources, disrupting the natural ecosystem in your garden.

How to Craft a Simple Wasp Trap

Creating an effective wasp trap is surprisingly easy.

Here’s what you’ll need:

A Plastic Bottle: Any empty plastic bottle will do. A 1-liter or 2-liter size is ideal.

Beer: Wasps are attracted to the scent of fermented liquids. A little leftover beer will work perfectly.

By adding something with a strong smell you almost guarantee that your bees won’t enter the trap.

Syrup or Sugar Water: The sweetness will lure the wasps into the trap.

A Pinch Of Cola or anything that can make your mixture a bit darker since wasps are attracted to this color.

Instructions:

Prepare the Bottle: Cut the top third of the bottle off and invert it, placing the top inside the bottom part like a funnel.

This design makes it easy for wasps to enter but hard for them to escape.

Add the Bait: Pour a small amount of beer into the bottom of the bottle, just enough to cover the base.

Add a few tablespoons of syrup or sugar water to make the bait even more enticing and color the mixture in dark with anything you might have at hand (cola, black vinegar and so on)

Place the Trap: Position the trap near your hives or in an area where you’ve noticed wasp activity.

Monitor and Dispose: Check the trap every few days.

Once it’s filled with wasps, dispose of the contents and refill as needed.