Alright, let me tell you about this crazy business I had to deal with recently. A hornet’s nest, but not just any nest. This one was dug right into the ground in my backyard. Yeah, you heard me, in the ground. Never seen that before, usually they’re hanging from a tree or under the eaves, you know?
Discovering the Problem
So, I first noticed a few more wasps than usual buzzing around the old flower bed near the fence. Didn’t think too much of it. Figured they were just, you know, doing their wasp thing. But then, a couple of days later, I was out trying to do some weeding – big mistake – and I saw them. A whole swarm, coming and going from this little hole in the dirt. Like a tiny, angry airport.
I got a bit closer, not too close mind you, and yup, definitely hornets. Or maybe yellow jackets. Honestly, they all look like trouble to me. The hole wasn’t much bigger than a quarter, but the amount of traffic in and out was something else. Knew right away this was gonna be a problem, especially with the kids running around.
Figuring Out a Plan (or Lack Thereof)
My first thought was, “Can I just pour boiling water down there?” Read that somewhere. But then I thought, how much water? And how do I get it in there without getting stung into next week? Seemed risky. Then I remembered those spray cans for wasps. But how effective is that for a nest underground? It’s not like you can just douse the whole thing easily.
I considered calling a professional. Probably the smartest move, right? But you know, sometimes you just want to try and tackle things yourself. Plus, I’m a bit stubborn. So, I decided I was going to handle this. My wife thought I was nuts, probably still does.
The Big Operation
Here’s what I did. I waited until it was properly dark. I mean, pitch black. They say they’re mostly all in the nest and less active at night. Makes sense. I geared up like I was going into battle. Long-sleeved thick jacket, jeans, work boots, heavy gloves, and I even found an old beekeeper’s hat with a veil that my neighbor gave me years ago. Looked absolutely ridiculous, I’m sure.
I bought one of those wasp and hornet killer foam sprays. The kind that shoots a good distance. The plan was to get as close as I dared, stick the nozzle kind of near the hole, and just let it rip. Fill that hole up with foam. Sounds simple, eh?
So, I crept out there. Flashlight off, trying to remember exactly where the hole was. Heart was definitely thumping. Found it. Took a deep breath, aimed, and just squeezed that trigger. Foam everywhere. I didn’t just spray a little; I pretty much emptied half the can down that hole and all around it. The foam expands, you see, so I was hoping it would get way down in there.
The second that foam started shooting, I didn’t stick around to admire my work. I turned and booked it back to the house. Probably set a new personal best for the 50-yard dash.
The Aftermath and Follow-Up
Next morning, I went out to inspect. Cautiously, of course. Peeking around the corner of the shed first. No buzzing. Walked over slowly. The foam had mostly soaked in or dried up. There were a few dead hornets on the ground near the entrance. I poked around the hole with a long stick. Nothing. Silence.
I thought, “Yes! Victory!”
But, just to be sure, I kept an eye on it for the next couple of days. And good thing I did. Saw one or two stragglers trying to get in or out a day later. So, that night, I repeated the process. Another good dose of foam. Better safe than sorry.
After that second treatment, nothing. It’s been a week now, and the area is clear. I even cautiously dug around the entrance a little bit with a trowel a few days later (wearing gloves, don’t worry) and it looked like the foam really did the trick. Found a lot of, uh, casualties.
What I Learned
So, that’s my saga with the ground hornets. It was a bit nerve-wracking, not gonna lie.
Here’s what I took away from it:
- Nighttime is the right time: Definitely do this when they’re less active.
- Gear up: Don’t be a hero. Wear protection. Even if you look silly.
- Use the right stuff: That foaming spray seemed to work well for an underground situation because it expands.
- Don’t be afraid to hit it twice: One application might not get them all. A follow-up can be key.
- Be patient and observe: Make sure the problem is actually solved before you declare victory.
Honestly, it’s a pain when they decide to build their home right in your yard like that. But with a bit of planning and a lot of caution, you can sometimes handle it yourself. Just be careful out there, folks. These things are no joke.