Latest news with #AndySimms
Scotsman
3 days ago
- General
- Scotsman
Asian Hornets: How to keep your home and garden safe
Asian hornet Last year, the UK continued to experience some occurrences of Asian Hornets. While it was hoped a British winter would kill them off, it appears that the pests have survived - meaning it's likely they are now around for good. This means gardeners have to get used to deterring these pests if they want to be able to enjoy their outside spaces this summer and protect native wildlife. From gorgeous Georgian town houses to jaw-dropping penthouses, converted campervans to bargain boltholes. Take a peek at the finest homes across the UK. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... the reliable way to hire tradespeople, has put together some advice on how people can protect their home and garden from any potential invader. From removing food sources to sealing off gaps in your brickwork, there are many actions that can be taken to discourage hornets and other pests. Hornets of any variety are not desirable to have around, but Asian hornets are particularly problematic. They have been responsible for wiping out honeybee populations across Europe, and can kill as many as 50 bees a day. They can also deliver a nasty sting to humans, which can be serious should you be allergic. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Andy Simms, from MyBuilder, said prevention is essential when it comes to Asian Hornets. 'While it's currently unlikely that people will see any Asian hornets, like any pests, it's harder to get rid of them once they've arrived than it is to prevent them in the first place. Any sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornets Watch app. 'Removing food remnants and rubbish is a simple step to take, but for increased protection you should check the seals on your windows and for any gaps in our brickwork. It seems like Asian Hornets are here in the UK to stay now, so proper measures may become necessary - and are useful to prevent other pests, too.' Below are MyBuilder's essential steps to take to protect your home and garden from hornets: Remove food sources Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Hornets will come to your garden looking for food sources, so the first step is to remove anything that will attract them. Fruit in particular attracts pests, so immediately remove any fallen fruit and don't leave any remains. Other food sources could be uneaten pet food, scraps left for wildlife, and bird feeders. Seal rubbish and move bins Sealing your rubbish bags and putting them into a bin prevents the smell of rotting food from attracting hornets. Compost bins also attract hornets, so keeping them sealed is very important. If possible, move your bins away from your home and garden. Plant off-putting plants Certain plants have a scent that is off-putting to hornets. Plants such as spearmint and lemongrass will deter them, as well as support pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Position them in areas where you most want to be rid of hornets, such as around the edges of patios or by any seating areas. Prevent the establishment of a nest Asian Hornets can make nests in trees/hedges. To stop Asian Hornets from establishing a nest in your garden, consider trimming back trees and hedges to reduce nest spots (but make sure you check your are legally able to trim first), and pick up dead plant debris that could shelter hornets and fill in holes in the ground to stop an underground nest. Seal off key entry points Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The eaves and soffits of your property can form cracks over time, which gives Asian hornets perfect entry points into your home as they search for sheltered locations, away from predators. To stop this happening, seal cracks with filler, before sanding and painting the area once dry. If this is a complicated job, call a local roofer for help. Install hornet traps There are many different types of traps you can use for Asian hornets, but traps that are especially made for them are the best because, if not, bees and other important insects can get trapped in them too. Your trap should be hung in a tree at head height, in a sunny area and away from deep shade where hornets are unlikely to forage. Traps typically range from £20 from most retailers.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
Asian hornets 'here to stay' how to keep them out of UK gardens
The UK has seen a number of sightings of Asian hornets in recent years, and it seems the pests have survived the winter - meaning they could be around for good Last year, the UK witnessed several sightings of Asian hornets and despite hopes that the British winter would eradicate them, these pests have persisted, suggesting they're here to stay. This spells trouble for British gardeners who will need to take measures to deter these invaders if they wish to enjoy their gardens this summer and safeguard local wildlife. Asian hornets are particularly troublesome; they've decimated honeybee colonies across Europe, capable of killing up to 50 bees a day. Their sting can also be quite severe for humans, especially for those with allergies. Andy Simms from MyBuilder emphasises that prevention is crucial when dealing with Asian hornets, reports the Express. He said: "While it's currently unlikely that most of us in the UK will see any Asian hornets, like any pests, it's harder to get rid of them once they've arrived than it is to prevent them in the first place. Any sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornets Watch app. "Removing food remnants and rubbish is a simple step to take, but for increased protection you should check the seals on your windows and for any gaps in our brickwork. "It seems like Asian Hornets are here in the UK to stay now, so proper measures may become necessary - and are useful to prevent other pests, too." One method to deter Asian hornets from invading your garden is through strategic planting. Certain plants emit a scent that hornets find rather unpleasant, making them less likely to linger if you have these plants. Experts suggest planting spearmint and lemongrass, which not only deter hornets but also support pollinators like bees and butterflies. These plants should be positioned in areas where you most want to keep hornets at bay, such as around the perimeters of patios or near seating areas. It's also crucial to seal off any potential entry points to your home. The eaves and soffits (overhanging parts of a roof) of your property can develop cracks over time, providing perfect entry points for Asian hornets seeking sheltered spots away from predators. To prevent this, fill in any cracks, then sand and paint the area once it's dry. If this task seems too daunting, don't hesitate to call a local roofer for assistance.
Scotsman
4 days ago
- General
- Scotsman
Asian Hornets: How to keep your home and garden safe
Asian hornet Last year, the UK continued to experience some occurrences of Asian Hornets. While it was hoped a British winter would kill them off, it appears that the pests have survived - meaning it's likely they are now around for good. This means gardeners have to get used to deterring these pests if they want to be able to enjoy their outside spaces this summer and protect native wildlife. From gorgeous Georgian town houses to jaw-dropping penthouses, converted campervans to bargain boltholes. Take a peek at the finest homes across the UK. Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... the reliable way to hire tradespeople, has put together some advice on how people can protect their home and garden from any potential invader. From removing food sources to sealing off gaps in your brickwork, there are many actions that can be taken to discourage hornets and other pests. Hornets of any variety are not desirable to have around, but Asian hornets are particularly problematic. They have been responsible for wiping out honeybee populations across Europe, and can kill as many as 50 bees a day. They can also deliver a nasty sting to humans, which can be serious should you be allergic. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Andy Simms, from MyBuilder, said prevention is essential when it comes to Asian Hornets. 'While it's currently unlikely that people will see any Asian hornets, like any pests, it's harder to get rid of them once they've arrived than it is to prevent them in the first place. Any sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornets Watch app. 'Removing food remnants and rubbish is a simple step to take, but for increased protection you should check the seals on your windows and for any gaps in our brickwork. It seems like Asian Hornets are here in the UK to stay now, so proper measures may become necessary - and are useful to prevent other pests, too.' Below are MyBuilder's essential steps to take to protect your home and garden from hornets: Remove food sources Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Hornets will come to your garden looking for food sources, so the first step is to remove anything that will attract them. Fruit in particular attracts pests, so immediately remove any fallen fruit and don't leave any remains. Other food sources could be uneaten pet food, scraps left for wildlife, and bird feeders. Seal rubbish and move bins Sealing your rubbish bags and putting them into a bin prevents the smell of rotting food from attracting hornets. Compost bins also attract hornets, so keeping them sealed is very important. If possible, move your bins away from your home and garden. Plant off-putting plants Certain plants have a scent that is off-putting to hornets. Plants such as spearmint and lemongrass will deter them, as well as support pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Position them in areas where you most want to be rid of hornets, such as around the edges of patios or by any seating areas. Prevent the establishment of a nest Asian Hornets can make nests in trees/hedges. To stop Asian Hornets from establishing a nest in your garden, consider trimming back trees and hedges to reduce nest spots (but make sure you check your are legally able to trim first), and pick up dead plant debris that could shelter hornets and fill in holes in the ground to stop an underground nest. Seal off key entry points Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The eaves and soffits of your property can form cracks over time, which gives Asian hornets perfect entry points into your home as they search for sheltered locations, away from predators. To stop this happening, seal cracks with filler, before sanding and painting the area once dry. If this is a complicated job, call a local roofer for help. Install hornet traps
South Wales Argus
4 days ago
- General
- South Wales Argus
Brits issued Asian Hornets warning - How to keep home safe
While it was hoped a British winter would kill them off, it appears that the pests have survived, meaning it's likely they are now around for good. This means British gardeners may have to get used to deterring these pests if they want to be able to enjoy their outside spaces this summer and protect native wildlife. Hornets of any variety are not desirable to have around, but Asian hornets are particularly problematic. They have been responsible for wiping out honeybee populations across Europe, and can kill as many as 50 bees a day. They can also deliver a nasty sting to humans, which can be serious should you be allergic. Andy Simms from MyBuilder, said prevention is essential when it comes to Asian Hornets. It wouldn't be a @SteveBackshall show without a *very* dangerous creature making an appearance. Here, Steve gets up close and personal with the dreaded Asian hornet 🫣 The Secret Life of Bees. 29th May 9pm. Watch | Stream on 5#bees #secretlifeofbees #hornets — Channel 5 (@channel5_tv) May 29, 2025 'While it's currently unlikely that most of us in the UK will see any Asian hornets, like any pests, it's harder to get rid of them once they've arrived than it is to prevent them in the first place. Any sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornets Watch app. 'Removing food remnants and rubbish is a simple step to take, but for increased protection you should check the seals on your windows and for any gaps in our brickwork. "It seems like Asian Hornets are here in the UK to stay now, so proper measures may become necessary - and are useful to prevent other pests, too.' Below are MyBuilder's essential steps to take to protect your home and garden from hornets: Remove food sources Hornets will come to your garden looking for food sources, so the first step is to remove anything that will attract them. Fruit in particular attracts pests, so immediately remove any fallen fruit and don't leave any remains. Other food sources could be uneaten pet food, scraps left for wildlife, and bird feeders. Seal rubbish and move bins Sealing your rubbish bags and putting them into a bin prevents the smell of rotting food from attracting hornets. Compost bins also attract hornets, so keeping them sealed is very important. If possible, move your bins away from your home and garden. Plant off-putting plants Certain plants have a scent that is off-putting to hornets. Plants such as spearmint and lemongrass will deter them, as well as support pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Position them in areas where you most want to be rid of hornets, such as around the edges of patios or by any seating areas. Prevent the establishment of a nest Asian Hornets can make nests in trees/hedges. To stop Asian Hornets from establishing a nest in your garden, consider trimming back trees and hedges to reduce nest spots (but make sure you check your are legally able to trim first), and pick up dead plant debris that could shelter hornets and fill in holes in the ground to stop an underground nest. Recommended reading: Seal off key entry points The eaves and soffits of your property can form cracks over time, which gives Asian hornets perfect entry points into your home as they search for sheltered locations, away from predators. To stop this from happening, seal cracks with filler, before sanding and painting the area once dry. If this is a complicated job, call a local roofer for help. Install hornet traps There are many different types of traps you can use for Asian hornets, but traps that are especially made for them are the best because, if not, bees and other important insects can get trapped in them too. Your trap should be hung in a tree at head height, in a sunny area and away from deep shade where hornets are unlikely to forage. Traps typically range from £20 from most retailers.
North Wales Chronicle
4 days ago
- General
- North Wales Chronicle
Brits issued Asian Hornets warning - How to keep home safe
While it was hoped a British winter would kill them off, it appears that the pests have survived, meaning it's likely they are now around for good. This means British gardeners may have to get used to deterring these pests if they want to be able to enjoy their outside spaces this summer and protect native wildlife. Hornets of any variety are not desirable to have around, but Asian hornets are particularly problematic. They have been responsible for wiping out honeybee populations across Europe, and can kill as many as 50 bees a day. They can also deliver a nasty sting to humans, which can be serious should you be allergic. Andy Simms from MyBuilder, said prevention is essential when it comes to Asian Hornets. It wouldn't be a @SteveBackshall show without a *very* dangerous creature making an appearance. Here, Steve gets up close and personal with the dreaded Asian hornet 🫣 The Secret Life of Bees. 29th May 9pm. Watch | Stream on 5#bees #secretlifeofbees #hornets 'While it's currently unlikely that most of us in the UK will see any Asian hornets, like any pests, it's harder to get rid of them once they've arrived than it is to prevent them in the first place. Any sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornets Watch app. 'Removing food remnants and rubbish is a simple step to take, but for increased protection you should check the seals on your windows and for any gaps in our brickwork. "It seems like Asian Hornets are here in the UK to stay now, so proper measures may become necessary - and are useful to prevent other pests, too.' Below are MyBuilder's essential steps to take to protect your home and garden from hornets: Remove food sources Hornets will come to your garden looking for food sources, so the first step is to remove anything that will attract them. Fruit in particular attracts pests, so immediately remove any fallen fruit and don't leave any remains. Other food sources could be uneaten pet food, scraps left for wildlife, and bird feeders. Seal rubbish and move bins Sealing your rubbish bags and putting them into a bin prevents the smell of rotting food from attracting hornets. Compost bins also attract hornets, so keeping them sealed is very important. If possible, move your bins away from your home and garden. Plant off-putting plants Certain plants have a scent that is off-putting to hornets. Plants such as spearmint and lemongrass will deter them, as well as support pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Position them in areas where you most want to be rid of hornets, such as around the edges of patios or by any seating areas. Prevent the establishment of a nest Asian Hornets can make nests in trees/hedges. To stop Asian Hornets from establishing a nest in your garden, consider trimming back trees and hedges to reduce nest spots (but make sure you check your are legally able to trim first), and pick up dead plant debris that could shelter hornets and fill in holes in the ground to stop an underground nest. Recommended reading: Seal off key entry points The eaves and soffits of your property can form cracks over time, which gives Asian hornets perfect entry points into your home as they search for sheltered locations, away from predators. To stop this from happening, seal cracks with filler, before sanding and painting the area once dry. If this is a complicated job, call a local roofer for help. Install hornet traps There are many different types of traps you can use for Asian hornets, but traps that are especially made for them are the best because, if not, bees and other important insects can get trapped in them too. Your trap should be hung in a tree at head height, in a sunny area and away from deep shade where hornets are unlikely to forage. Traps typically range from £20 from most retailers.
