what can i put on my balcony to keep wasps away

Balcony Wasp Repellent: Top Natural Solutions

By Laura MooreNovember 1, 2025

If you're wondering what to put on your balcony to keep wasps away, you're not alone. These striped intruders can turn your outdoor space into an uncomfortable zone. But fear not, there are several natural and effective methods to deter wasps without resorting to harsh chemicals. Let's explore some balcony-friendly solutions.

Before we dive into the solutions, it's essential to understand why wasps are attracted to your balcony. Wasps are drawn to sweet smells, open food sources, and water. They also build their nests in sheltered, undisturbed areas. By addressing these factors, you can make your balcony less appealing to wasps.

Natural Repellents

Nature has provided us with a wealth of wasp-repelling plants and substances. Incorporating these into your balcony decor can help keep wasps at bay.

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Certain plants emit scents that wasps find repellent. Some of these include:

Mint

Mint is a refreshing herb that's easy to grow in pots. Its strong scent deters wasps, as well as other pests like ants and mosquitoes. Plus, it adds a lovely fragrance to your balcony.

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To maximize its repellent effect, plant mint in clusters and place them in strategic locations around your balcony. You can also make a mint tea and use the cooled liquid as a spray to deter wasps.

Citronella Grass

Citronella grass is another plant that wasps dislike. Its citrusy scent masks the sweet smells that attract wasps. This hardy plant grows well in pots and adds a touch of greenery to your balcony.

Like mint, you can also make a citronella tea and use it as a spray to repel wasps. Just remember to reapply after rain or watering.

6K views · 2.9K reactions | Wasps can be an utter nuisance around your garden when food and drink are out at a BBQ or meal, so if all fails to keep them away (like citronella candles and lemongrass or fake nests) you can make your own wasp trap! It should be noted that wasps are also accidental pollinators and beneficial for your garden by eating aphids too. So if you do find yourself resorting to this after trying citrus or other natural ideas then I strong advise to do so only when you’ve got food and drink nearby as a LAST RESORT. And don’t leave them out to catch them when you’re not outside :) This simple gardening tip for beginner gardeners will show you how you can DIY your very own Wasp trap using a plastic bottle and some household items like water, sugar and apple vinegar. #gardeningtips #gardeningforbeginners #wasp #wasps #flytrap #gardeninghacks | Gardening with Ish | Facebook

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Physical Barriers and Other Deterrents

In addition to natural repellents, there are other ways to physically deter wasps from your balcony.

Wasps prefer to build their nests in sheltered, undisturbed areas. By making your balcony less hospitable, you can discourage them from nesting there.

Cover Your Balcony

If your balcony is exposed, consider covering it with a retractable awning or a canopy. This will make it less appealing for wasps to build nests, as they prefer open, sunny spots.

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You can also use sheer curtains or blinds to create a physical barrier while still allowing light and air to pass through.

Keep Your Balcony Tidy

Wasps are attracted to open food sources and sweet smells. To deter them, keep your balcony clean and free of food debris. Wipe down tables and chairs after meals, and store food in sealed containers when not in use.

If you have potted plants, ensure they're not overripe or rotting, as this can attract wasps. Also, avoid leaving sweet drinks or fruits unattended.

DIY Wasp Repellents

If you're feeling crafty, there are several DIY wasp repellents you can make at home using common household ingredients.

Here are a couple of recipes you can try:

Vinegar Spray

Wasps dislike the smell of vinegar. To make a simple repellent, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray around your balcony, focusing on potential nesting sites and entry points.

You can also add a few drops of essential oil like peppermint or eucalyptus to enhance the repellent effect.

Essential Oil Candles

Certain essential oils, such as citronella, lemongrass, and geranium, are known for their wasp-repelling properties. To make wasp-repelling candles, mix a few drops of these essential oils with some melted beeswax or soy wax, then pour into glass containers.

Place these candles on your balcony, but remember to keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.

By incorporating these natural and DIY solutions into your balcony decor, you can create a wasp-free zone without resorting to harsh chemicals. So, go ahead and enjoy your outdoor space, safe from those pesky wasps. Happy balcony decorating!