As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, Alaskans are eager to enjoy outdoor BBQs, picnics, and backyard gatherings. But nothing ruins a relaxing outdoor meal faster than uninvited guests—especially when those guests are ants, wasps, and other pesky pests. Here’s how to keep your outdoor gatherings pest-free so you can focus on fun, food, and good company.
Why Pests Love Outdoor Gatherings
Spring and summer provide the perfect conditions for pests to thrive. With abundant food, warm temperatures, and more people dining outdoors, insects like ants and wasps are naturally drawn to the scene. Here’s why:
- Food and Sugary Drinks – Open containers, spills, and crumbs are an all-you-can-eat buffet for pests.
- Warm Weather Activates Nesting – Many pests, especially wasps, become more aggressive in spring and summer as they search for food to support their growing colonies.
- Bright Colors and Floral Scents – Perfumes, bright clothing, and sweet-smelling drinks attract insects like bees and wasps.
How to Keep Ants, Wasps, and Other Pests Away
To protect your outdoor festivities, use these simple yet effective strategies:
1. Cover and Store Food Properly
- Use sealed containers for food and drinks to prevent pests from sniffing out a meal.
- Cover plates with mesh food domes or foil when not in use.
- Keep sugary drinks in bottles or cups with lids and straws.
2. Keep the Eating Area Clean
- Wipe down tables and surfaces regularly to remove food residue.
- Dispose of food scraps quickly—don’t leave trash sitting out.
- Keep garbage bins tightly sealed and away from eating areas.
3. Repel Pests with Natural Methods
- Citrus Peels & Vinegar – Ants hate the smell of citrus and vinegar. Wipe down picnic tables with a vinegar solution to deter them.
- Herbs & Spices – Placing fresh basil, mint, or cloves around your table can help repel flying pests.
- Essential Oils – Peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella oils are natural deterrents for insects.
4. Manage Wasp Activity Safely
- Avoid leaving sweet or protein-based foods uncovered, as they attract wasps.
- If a wasp lands on your food or drink, stay calm—sudden movements can provoke them.
- Keep outdoor trash cans covered and empty them regularly to reduce wasp interest.
- Never swat at a wasp, as it can release pheromones that attract more wasps to the area.
5. Reduce Standing Water
- Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so empty flowerpot saucers, birdbaths, and any containers that collect rainwater.
- Keep gutters clear to prevent water buildup.
6. Call in the Professionals
If your outdoor space is overrun with pests, it might be time to call in the experts. Alaska Pest Management provides targeted pest control solutions to eliminate existing infestations and prevent future ones.
Enjoy a Pest-Free Outdoor Season!
With the right precautions, you can enjoy Alaska’s beautiful spring and summer weather without worrying about pests ruining your gatherings. Whether you need help dealing with an active infestation or want a prevention plan in place, Alaska Pest Management is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and keep your backyard the perfect place for outdoor fun!
