Box elder bugs are a common nuisance, and can often be found congregating on the sunny side of buildings or homes. There are many ways to deter these pesky bugs before the need to call a Salt Lake City pest control specialist, and today we will be reviewing the most effective methods.
What Are Box Elder Bugs?
Box elder bugs are a type of bug that is found in North America. They get their name from the box elder tree, which is one of the few trees that they feed on. Box elder bugs are about ¼ inch long and are black with orange or red markings. They can be distinguished from other types of bugs by their two vertical red lines on their thorax.
What Harm Do Box Elder Bugs Cause?
Box elder bugs are not known to bite or sting humans, but they can be a nuisance because they often congregate in large groups on the sunny side of buildings or homes. When they are disturbed, they may release a foul-smelling odor. In addition, box elder bugs can sometimes enter homes and other buildings through cracks and crevices.
What Can I Do to Deter Box Elder Bugs?
There are many ways to deter box elder bugs from your property. One of the most effective methods is to use insecticides. Insecticides that contain pyrethrins or neem oil can be effective in killing and repelling box elder bugs. Another method is to plant box elder-resistant plants around your property. Some plants that are known to be resistant to box elder bugs include:
- Lavender
- Mint
- Marigolds
- Rosemary
You can also deter box elder bugs by regularly cleaning up any fallen leaves or debris around your property. This will remove potential hiding and breeding sites for these bugs.
Box Elder Bugs are a common nuisance in North America. When they are disturbed, they may release a foul-smelling odor. In addition, box elder bugs can sometimes enter homes and other buildings through cracks and crevices where they can damage furniture or clothing. Using the methods above will help you to keep box elder bugs away from your property and prevent any infestations in the future. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact your local Salt Lake City pest control professionals for assistance.
