How to Get Rid of Wasp Nests in Trees

Put on each piece of protective clothing. The "Do-It-Yourself Pest Control" Web site recommends wearing a bee hat, eye protection, gloves, coveralls, and a long-sleeved shirt when attempting to eliminate a wasp nest.

Go out to the nest after nightfall. This is when the most wasps are in the nest.

Spray the insecticide around the outside of the wasp nest. Do not worry about standing a few feet from the nest, because the spray travels far enough to cover the nest. Cover as much of the outside of the nest as possible. Avoid using such sprays in windy conditions, because the spray could be blown back on you.

Inspect the nest the next day. Proceed to Step 5 if no wasps are noticed. Otherwise, the University of Minnesota Extension Web site recommends spraying the nest at three-day intervals until no wasps are noticed around the nest. Remember to use extreme caution when approaching and spraying the nest.

Dress in your protective clothing. Approach the nest at night, taking along the long garden shears and canvas bag.

Place the bag around the bottom of the nest. Cut the top of the nest from the tree, or knock the nest out of the tree, so that it falls into the bag. Close the bag fully. Do so as quickly as possible, because a few live wasps may remain inside the nest.

Fill a large bucket with enough water to cover the nest.

Open the bag slightly so air and water can enter. A hole just a few centimeters in size is more than adequate. Immediately after opening the bag slightly, sink the bag into the bucket. Place a brick or heavy object onto the bag. This ensures the bag and nest fill with water, killing any remaining wasps. Soak overnight, then dispose of the nest.