Knowledgebase

Getting Rid of Underground Bees #872987

Asked June 13, 2024, 3:09 PM EDT

While clearing space for a garden, I was attacked by bees that came up from the ground. It seems to be a rather large nest of them. How can safety get rid of the entire nest so that I can create a garden?

Durham County North Carolina

Expert Response

These underground bees are likely yellowjackets which can become very aggressive while defending their nest. It is important to identify the hole where the wasps are coming from, and while wearing protective clothing in the early evening when their activity slows down, place about 2 teaspoons of 5% Sevin dust on the end of a long handle shovel and spread liberally around the entrance of the nest hole. As they exit and enter the entrance hole, they will brush against the Sevin dust.
Following is a link to a North Carolina State University article describing the behavior of yellowjackets.

https://durham.ces.ncsu.edu/2020/05/nows-the-perfect-time-to-test-your-soil/

Thank you,

Gene 

Extension Master Gardener Volunteer

Pana Jones, Program Assistant Replied June 18, 2024, 10:20 AM EDT

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