Boxelder bugs can be found where their preferred food source, boxelder trees, are located. These bugs can become a problem in fall when they sneak into homes looking for a warm place to spend the winter. Taking steps to alleviate the problem before they make their way indoors will help to prevent an infestation. Check out a few tips to help you get rid of boxelder bugs hanging out in your yard.
Remove Food Sources
Boxelder bugs feed on the juice found in seeds and leaves of boxelder trees. They will also feed on fruit from other trees like apples and plums. You’ll want to take the time to remove fallen seeds from your yard. Pick up any fallen fruit from trees too. Removing their food sources will make your yard less attractive to these bugs. Regularly pruning your trees and plants can also help to reduce potential food sources.
Minimize Sheltering Spots
When bugs invade your yard, they have to find a safe place to hide. Boxelder bugs seek shelter in piles of leaves, stacks of wood, and other yard debris. Raking leaves and removing yard debris can help to prevent boxelder bugs. If you have woodpiles in your yard, you’ll want to store them away from your home. Overgrown vegetation can also provide them with a hiding spot, so you’ll want to keep your plants trimmed.
Avoid Planting Boxelder Trees
If you’re planning on adding trees to your yard, you’ll want to avoid planting a boxelder tree. These trees are the main attractant of boxelder bugs, and these bugs are known to travel long distances to find them. If you want to plant a boxelder tree, choose one that doesn’t produce seeds. If you already have a boxelder tree, you’ll want to pick up fallen seeds regularly, especially in spring when these bugs are emerging.
Spray Boxelder Bugs Away
As fall approaches, boxelder bugs begin their search for a warm overwintering location. They typically gather on the sunny side of homes before making their way inside. When you notice them congregating, you can use your garden hose to knock them off. It’s best to use the strongest stream setting available. Spraying them will help to deter them from returning. You can also use your garden hose to remove the bugs gathering on your trees.
Use a Vacuum
A vacuum that can be used outdoors can help to keep boxelder bugs away. The vacuum will be helpful for removing the bugs that you find on your deck or patio area. You can also use the hose extension to remove boxelder bugs from the side of your home. Empty the contents of the vacuum into a sealed bag, and place the bag in an outdoor trash can. Make sure your trash bin has a tight-fitting lid.
Use Pest Control Products
Pest control products can also help to get rid of boxelder bugs. Our Beetle & Boxelder Bug Killer can be sprayed on plants and trees to help control these pests. You can also spray the perimeter of your yard and home with our Yard Bug Spray. It kills boxelder bugs and will also provide residual repellency protection, helping to prevent these pests from getting into your home. To create a protective barrier, spray the lower portions of the foundation and the ground along the perimeter, but don’t spray your home’s siding.
If boxelder bugs have invaded your yard, there’s a good chance they will try to make their way indoors when it starts getting cold. Removing attractants and using pest control products can help you keep your outdoor space and home free of boxelder bugs. If you’re dealing with a pest problem, we want to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.