Asian hornets are a highly invasive species that were accidentally introduced to the UK in 2016. They are known to decimate bee populations and ravage ecosystems.
Brits are being advised to plant on herb in particular to ward off the dreaded Asian Hornet this summer(Image: Chris Luck / SWNS)
Gardeners have been alerted to a surge in sightings of a fearsome hornet that wreaks havoc on bees and flowers – but luckily, there’s one common herb that can keep them away available in most supermarkets.
Asian hornets are an extremely invasive species that were unintentionally introduced to the UK back in 2016. They are notorious for decimating bee populations and devastating ecosystems.
Even more alarming, their numbers in Britain are on the rise. There were 262 queen Asian hornets recorded on Jersey by April 11, 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of a whopping 1,090%.
Asian hornets typically emerge from hibernation around April. To make matters worse, they favour warmer temperatures, suggesting that the recent heatwave has likely boosted their numbers.
The concern arises from their predation on native pollinators, such as bumblebees. In fact, a single Asian hornet can kill and consume up to fifty bumblebees in a day, reports the Mirror.
Asian hornets have been spotted in the UK(Image: Getty Images)
Mint plants are keen in helping fend of the invasive Asian hornets(Image: John de Carteret / SWNS)
They also pose a risk to humans. These yellow-legged insects are slightly larger than average wasps and deliver a potent sting.
In some instances, they can cause symptoms like a runny nose, abdominal pain and swelling of the lip or tongue.
While no more dangerous than a wasp or bee sting, those with insect allergies should exercise caution. In the event of a severe reaction, they may experience anaphylactic shock.
Differentiating between an Asian hornet and a common wasp in your garden isn’t always simple, but there are clear indicators to look out for. According to the British Beekeepers Association, Asian hornets can be identified by their distinct yellow legs and a broad orange band on their abdomen’s fourth segment.
In case you spot what might be these invasive insects, stay calm – experts have shared a useful tip to repel them naturally.
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Clancy Bros Pest Control has shared the following advice: “Wasps and hornets hate the smell of mint. You can plant mint around your house or keep a pot of mint near the areas where these pests are usually found. This will help to keep them away from those areas.”
You can easily find mint plants at Asda for just £1.08 to plant in your garden. It’s advisable to grow mint in individual pots, ensuring fertile, well-drained soil and some exposure to sunlight.
For those less inclined to gardening, Clancy Bros Pest Control also recommends using peppermint oil as a handy substitute, which has the advantage of a longer shelf life when stored in your cupboard.
They further advise: “You can also use peppermint oil as it has the same effect. Just take a few drops of peppermint oil on a cotton ball and place it near their nest.”
If you encounter an Asian hornet, residents are encouraged to record their sighting in the Asian Hornet Watch app. Additionally, reporting can be done by sending a photo and location details to alertnonnative@ceh.ac. uk.