The following list of ten wasp species includes both social and solitary types:

Common Wasps

Wasps that are common and aggressive are striped black and yellow. Scavenging sweet foods is a common occurrence.

This species of yellowjacket is well-known for its elaborate nesting habits. Their urban habitat is characterized by a high level of colony protection.

photo by ourwaterourworld

3. The species of paper wasps

Wasps that are long and slender. Under eaves, they construct little nests with an open-comb design out of a substance that resembles paper.

photo by bugguide

The wasp is a large, striped insect that typically inhabits treetops and builds paper nests shaped like footballs.

5. Vespa crabro, the European Hare

Despite being less aggressive than yellowjackets, this large hornet species can inflict serious stings when provoked.

Loner Wasps

6. Sceliphron species, namely mud daubers

Quiet wasps build their homes from dirt. They prey on spiders so that their children can eat.

photo by peterchen

Large wasps that chase cicadas. Unless challenged, they remain lonely and peaceful.

8. Subfamily Eumeninae: Potter Wasps

Individual wasps that build their homes from mud in the form of pots. In order to protect their young, they immobilize caterpillars.

9. The Great Golden Digger wasp is scientifically known as Sphex ichneumoneus.

A huge, lone wasp whose beautiful black and gold body is sure to turn heads. In order to feed its young, it pursues grasshoppers and crickets.

10. Class Ichneumon wasps, family Ichneumonidae.

The lengthy ovipositors of these wasps allow them to deposit their eggs in or on other insects. Their use is helpful in reducing the number of pests.

Pollination and pest control are only two of the many important ecological functions performed by these wasps.

1. The Egg Stage

The queen wasp uses each nest cell to deposit her eggs. The queen often uses the sperm she collected during her matings the previous season to fertilize her eggs. The nest provides a safe haven for the tiny oblong eggs.

2. The Larva Stage 

The eggs develop into larvae after a short period of time. Adult worker wasps feed the larvae, often providing them with chewed-up insects or nectar. The workers provide all of the food for the larvae, which look like little grubs without legs.

3. Stage of the Pupa

When the larvae reach a certain developmental milestone, they enter the pupal stage by encasing themselves in a cocoon that resembles silk. The larvae develop the wings, legs, and unique body structure of an adult wasp while enclosed in the cocoon.

6. The Adult Phase

The wasp matures into its adult form after it undergoes transformation. If the wasp in question is a worker, it will mostly be responsible for gathering food, tending to the nest, and laying eggs. In the latter half of the season, queens and males are born, and they will mate just before winter arrives.

Changes with the seasons

Hibernating alone helps many species' queens survive winter. As the temperature drops, the colony's workers and males typically perish. The life cycle restarts in the spring when the queen constructs a new nest and begins to lay eggs.

Year after year, the wasp colony is able to thrive and grow because of this never-ending cycle.

List of Plants That Repel Them

Wasps are a pain in any garden, but they're particularly harmful in the summer when they're more active. Pest wasps are the last thing you need while you're trying to relax in your backyard or prepare for a garden party. Thankfully, there is a wide variety of plants that serve to both enhance your garden and deter these bothersome insects. For those who want to know which plants really ward off wasps, 

1. Mentha spp. or mint

Mint is one of the best plants to keep wasps at bay. Its pungent aroma is pleasing for people but repulsive to wasps. Mint plants release a natural menthol chemical that irritates wasps, causing them to avoid the plants. Mint can be grown in containers, on the ground, or in garden beds. Please note that it is invasive and can quickly overrun your garden if not controlled.

Planting mint near your home's doors or patio areas where you spend a lot of time will enhance its wasp-repelling effectiveness.

2. Flora of the Eucalyptus family

Another plant that successfully repels wasps is eucalyptus, which is well-known for its fragrant and therapeutic qualities. Eucalyptus oil's strong aroma keeps wasps and other pests at bay. If you have room, you may plant eucalyptus trees; otherwise, you can cultivate dwarf eucalyptus species in containers. Another option is to rub a few crushed eucalyptus leaves on areas where wasps like to hang out.

Commercial insect repellents frequently use eucalyptus oil due to its effectiveness in naturally repelling insects like wasps.

3. Citronella, scientifically known as Cymbopogon nardus

Citronella helps keep wasps at bay, in addition to the mosquitoes for which it is famous. The plant's overpowering citrus aroma deters wasps. Citronella is an adaptable plant that thrives both in containers and on the ground. To make your patio, deck, or sitting spaces more insect- and wasp-proof, put citronella plants around them.

For any setting prone to insects, citronella is a multipurpose plant with several uses, including as a natural wasp repellent, in candles, sprays, and essential oils.

4. Artemisia absinthium, commonly referred to as Wormwood

The potent plant Wormwood, whose scientific name is Artemisia, has a bitter flavor and silvery-green leaves. Wormwood, with its pungent stench that repels wasps, is an excellent addition to your garden. Thujone, an insect-repellent chemical, is present in the plant.

Wormwood is a low-maintenance plant that does best in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Although wormwood does a beneficial job of keeping wasps at bay, it is poisonous if consumed, so be sure to keep it away from kids and dogs.

5. Cymbopogon citratus, or lemongrass

Lemongrass, another citrus-scented plant, deters wasps. The plant's abundance of citronella oil gives it a citrus scent. Not only can lemongrass keep bugs at bay, but it's also a common component in many other kinds of food and drinks.

Because it is easily transplantable from one spot to another in a container garden, lemongrass does best in warm areas. If you live in a colder climate, we recommend bringing the plant indoors during the winter.

6. Targetea species marigolds

Not only do marigolds have beautiful, cheery flowers, but they also keep pests like wasps away from your yard. If you want to keep wasps out of your yard, plant some marigolds. Their strong scent is a natural bug repellent. Create a bright and protective barrier by planting marigolds in flower beds, borders, or containers.

The ladybugs and other helpful insects that marigolds attract are beneficial for keeping garden pests at bay. As a result, they are an excellent plant to have in the garden for general health promotion.

7. Basil, scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum

The adaptable herb basil is well-known for its ability to ward off a wide range of pests, including wasps, and it thrives both inside and outdoors. Basil is a successful wasp repellent because of the unpleasant aromas released by the herb's leaves. Basil is an excellent plant for most gardens because it thrives in sunny spots with well-draining soil.

Not only does basil keep wasps at bay, but it also adds flavor to pasta, salads, and soups when cooked. Any garden can benefit greatly from basil, a plant that serves both culinary and medicinal purposes.

8. Pennyroyal, also known as Mentha pulegium

Another plant with strong insect-repellent characteristics is pennyroyal, a member of the mint family. The minty scent is pleasant for people, but it repels pests such as wasps. Pennyroyal, whether planted in pots or as a ground cover, is an excellent choice for locations where you would want to reduce the presence of wasps.

Use caution when working with pennyroyal, as its essential oils can be poisonous when consumed in large quantities. Still, it works well as a garden wasp repellent when usedsparingly.

5. Thyme, scientifically known as Thymus vulgaris

Aside from its culinary uses, the aromatic herb thyme also acts as a natural wasp repellant. Can keep wasps out of your garden? Use this plant. It has a powerful perfume that conceals their scent. Thyme is an excellent herb to use in garden borders or pots because it is low-growing and thrives in sunny areas with well-drained soil.

Deer-resistant thyme protects your garden from pests.

In summary

If you want to keep wasps out of your yard in an attractive and environmentally conscious manner, try planting some plants that repel them. A pleasant mixture of mint, eucalyptus, citronella, and marigolds, among other herbs, flowers, and shrubs, may serve as a natural barrier against wasps while also improving the garden's aesthetics and health. Not only do these plants naturally ward off wasps, but they also help to create a peaceful outdoor space where you can unwind in peace.

The WASP FACTORY: A NOVEL  kindle