Parasitic Wasps

The early stages of this common wasp feed on the young of other insects.
Beneficial Ichneumon Parasitoid Wasp

Beneficial Ichneumon Parasitoid Wasp

One of hundreds of varieties of parastic wasps, the ichneumon parasitoid wasp is about 1-1/2 inches long.

One of hundreds of varieties of parastic wasps, the ichneumon parasitoid wasp is about 1-1/2 inches long.

Related To:

Parasitic wasps can be either friend or foe. The long black "stinger" on the back end of its body is an ovipositer — a device that allows it to lay eggs in the soft larval body of a variety of insects, including beetles, grubs, flies and pest caterpillars. Its young hatch inside the host's body and eat their way out. The catch is that sometimes it preys on beneficial insects and spiders, such as butterflies and other wasps. Some species lay their eggs in wood.

There are thousands of species in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes, and they're found throughout the U.S. Parasitic wasps typically look like skinny wasps with very long antennae. You can usually find them hunting in the garden for prey by day or flying around porch lights in the evening. The adults of most types can sting.

Next Up

What to Prune in Late Fall

To prune or not to prune? Get answers to your late-year pruning questions.

Should You Use Pasta Water on Plants?

Social media sites are buzzing about using pasta water on your plants. Is this a gardening hack or a hoax?

10 Mulch Do's and Don’ts

Protect your plants and avoid top mulching mistakes by following these do's and don'ts.

How to Choose the Best Garden Watering System

What is the best watering system for your yard? Use this helpful guide to save water, money and time.

The Best Self-Watering Planters for Your Home, Deck or Patio

Take the work and worry out of watering flowers, veggies and herbs when you use a planter that gives plant roots the right amount of moisture.

Use Fall Leaves for Winter Mulch

Do yourself, your garden and your community a favor this fall. Reuse those leaves!

What Do the Numbers on a Fertilizer Bag Mean?

What are N-P-K and the three numbers on a fertilizer label? They indicate the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the fertilizer. Read on to find out why those nutrients and their numbers are important for growing a lush lawn or healthy garden.

Hen and Chicks: All About These Popular Succulents

Learn how to care for and propagate this popular, cold-hardy succulent.

How to Grow Carrots

The secret to growing beautiful carrots is in the soil. Follow these tips to start your carrot patch off on the right foot.

Tips for Edible Gardening in Small Spaces

Make the most of a small garden space by mixing flowers and vegetables in an ornamental edible garden.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.