Knowledgebase

Flying wasp/hornet infestion. #930537

Asked May 04, 2026, 11:52 AM EDT

How can I treat an ornamental cherry tree to prevent burrowing from what looks like large yellow jackets?

Montgomery County Maryland

Expert Response

European Hornets and Yellowjackets do not excavate a nest cavity; they merely build a nest in a cavity already existing due to old woodpecker nest holes, decay, or other causes. We don't see any indications of a wasp presence (nesting) in the photo, but to address the tree damage itself, we recommend you involve a certified arborist or licensed tree expert. Arborists can't cure or treat every problem, but they can help to narrow-down a diagnosis and look for sources of tree stress that might be able to be alleviated. There's no DIY treatment for an injury like this, as wounds should not be coated or sealed with anything, as that may hamper the wound-closure process.

Miri
Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied May 04, 2026, 1:14 PM EDT
Thank you Miri!

Sent from my iPhone

On May 4, 2026, at 1:14 PM, Ask Extension wrote:


The Question Asker Replied May 04, 2026, 6:50 PM EDT
You're welcome.
Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied May 05, 2026, 10:08 AM EDT

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