The creative feeding of the wasps
It is easy to get upset about wasps because of their often stubborn, aggressive behavior at the coffee table in the garden. As is so often the case, with the right approach, this anger can also be turned into something positive. Because the busy, insatiable way of the wasp workers to get food can also be useful to the hobby gardener. Among other things in the fight against the boxwood moth.
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In the first time after the unfortunate introduction of this butterfly from East Asia, it had free rein for its box tree-destroying goings-on. Because of course he hadn’t taken his natural predators with him from his homeland. And our local fauna initially didn't seem interested in the immigrant.
Little by little, however, some species have discovered the fat, nutritious caterpillars of the borer as a welcome addition to their menu. These pioneers include a few birds such as sparrows. But also wasps! Nature conservation organizations and private individuals have researched and confirmed the preference of black and yellow insects several times. This is where their greedy, unafraid nature pays off - and many a boxwood lover could make friends with them.
So make a note of:
- Wasps are not only eager for our delicacies on the garden table
- are also among the pioneers in the discovery of the box tree moth as a new source of food
The little disillusionment
It is good news that wasps like to prey on boxwood moth caterpillars. Unfortunately, this does not mean that the fight against the pest is over. Because as effectively as the wasps contribute to its decimation - they cannot eliminate a strong infestation. In such a case, neem oil and Co. have to continue to serve.
Nevertheless, wasps can also act as a preventive measure: In contrast to the boxwood moth caterpillars, the yellow and black striped wasps are easy to spot in the dark green box leaves. If you regularly observe your bucket socket or box tree hedge in spring, wasps sitting in it can be an indication of an infestation and you can take action at an early stage.
