DIY in the war against wasps
Is it a vespula wasp (German or common) or a paper wasp? Find out the difference here.
Once you know which type of wasp to target, the next step is to use the correct control method.
- For paper wasps, there are commercially available sprays at hardware stores around the country. The important things to note are not to get too close (these sprays can go up to four metres), and to do it at dusk once the wasps have returned to their nests. If you are unsure where the nests are, you can usually follow the wasp to it, as they don't travel too far away.
- Vespex is a protein-based bait which is suitable for use on the vespula wasp species. This is usually done at landscape scale as a small tub of bait can cover a large area. You don't need to find the nests as the wasps carry the bait home with them. Vespex is not at all attractive to bees. If there is a problem in your area you can learn all about the use of vespex here. You will need to be an approved user - a short 10-minute video course is all that is required. Vespex is not suitable for paper wasps as they prefer live bait. You can also contribute to our fight against wasps here: givealittle.co.nz...
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Riddle Me This: Can You Out-Smart Yesterday’s Champ?
How can the number four be half of five?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.4% Yes
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14% No
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1.6% Other - I'll share below