Bumble bees, wasps are on my deck, but, I cannot find their hive. how can I get rid of them?

Veronica EXPERT May 10, 2009

First off, it might not be that the source is close--only that the occasional bed or wasp is visiting your deck.

If you have only 2 or 3 bees or wasps a day, most likely there is not a nest or hive nearby. If you have DOZENS, especially at one time, then it is likely there is a nest or hive nearby.

And if you do have dozens, then yes, the only way to get rid of them is to remove or kill the hive or nest.

I'd do another search for the source when they're very active (this might not be until late summer), keeping in mind that some, like yellow jackets, make their nests in the ground, and might have a nest under the deck. Just be careful, of course! Yellow jackets, especially, get very agitated when disturbed. Use an insecticide labeled specifically for bees and wasps. Wear long pants and sleeves, shoes and socks, gloves, and perhaps even goggles and ski mask when applying, for protection.

Otherwise, if you have just a few, relax. Bees and wasps will sting only if provoked and bothered. And they play a critical role in pollinating our plants and helping the planet. Bees in a garden are as sign of a healthy garden! In small numbers, they're our friends, not our enemies.

HunterFouche October 10, 2009

go to the store and ask them for bug spray.