How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs Naturally: Effective and Eco-Friendly Solutions

Boxelder bugs are a common nuisance, especially around homes and buildings near boxelder, ash, and maple trees.

These insects often appear in large numbers during hot, dry summers, and they can be a frustrating problem for homeowners.

However, there are natural ways to get rid of them without resorting to harmful chemicals.

One effective method to deter boxelder bugs is by washing them off the sides of your home with water.

This works best during cooler temperatures when the bugs are less likely to fly away.

Another preventative measure can be removing boxelder trees from your property, as these insects primarily feed on such trees.

Using natural remedies not only helps protect your home environment but also keeps the larger ecosystem’s balance in check.

By exploring these eco-friendly techniques, you can enjoy a boxelder bug-free space while reducing your ecological impact.

Understanding Boxelder Bugs

Biology and Behavior

Boxelder bugs are part of the “true bugs” family, which includes stink bugs and cicadas. These insects have piercing and sucking mouthparts, and they release a bad odor when crushed.

They mainly feed on the sap of female boxelder trees, but can also attack ash and maple trees, as well as raspberry and strawberry plants¹.

Nymphs are smaller than adults and have distinct red markings².

• Features:
  • Piercing and sucking mouthparts
  • Bad odor when crushed
• Characteristics:
  • Mainly feed on female boxelder trees
  • Can attack other trees and plants

Seasonal Activity

Boxelder bugs are most active during warm seasons like spring and summer³.

They tend to overwinter in buildings, and with the approach of fall, they gather in large numbers on the south side of trees and structures⁴.

In summary, understanding the biology and behavior of boxelder bugs, as well as their seasonal activity, is crucial to effectively get rid of them naturally.

How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs Naturally

Vacuuming

• Easy and quick method
• Safe for pets

Vacuuming is a simple and effective method to remove boxelder bugs. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to suck up the bugs in infested areas. Dispose of the vacuum bag outdoors to prevent the bugs from returning indoors.

Soap Spray

• Non-toxic solution
• Apply on affected areas

A soap and water spray is a safe and environmentally-friendly option to eliminate boxelder bugs. Mix a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle.

Apply the solution directly onto the bugs or affected surfaces, making sure not to harm any plants in the process.

Diatomaceous Earth

• Non-toxic insecticide
• Wear protective gear

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is an effective non-toxic insecticide that can be used against boxelder bugs. Sprinkle DE in areas where the bugs are present, like windowsills and doorways.

Make sure to wear gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask when handling DE to protect yourself from any irritation.

Homemade Boxelder Trap

• DIY solution
• Requires simple materials

Creating a homemade boxelder trap is an inexpensive way to catch these pests. Here’s an example:

Items needed:

• A plastic container with a lid
• A small dish, like a disposable aluminum tray
• A hole punch

Directions:

1. Fill the aluminum tray with soapy water.
2. Place it inside the plastic container.
3. Punch several holes in the container lid, just big enough for the boxelder bugs to enter.
4. Seal the container with the lid and place it in areas where the bugs are commonly found.

The bugs will be attracted to the trap, crawl through the holes, and ultimately drown in the soapy water. CrossAxisAlignment

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Preventing Boxelder Bug Infestations

Exclusion Methods

• Seal entry points: Close all gaps and openings around doors, windows, vents, roof, and cracks with caulk.
• Install door sweeps and window screens: Place tight-fitting door sweeps on exterior doors and fine mesh screens on windows.
• Cover soffit vents: Use fine mesh screens on soffit vents to prevent bugs from entering.

An example of effective exclusion methods includes installing door sweeps on exterior doors, which helps in preventing boxelder bugs from entering your home.

Comparing door sweeps to window screens, both serve the purpose of keeping bugs out, but door sweeps are specifically designed for doors while window screens cover windows.

Tree Maintenance

• Remove seed-bearing boxelder trees: Boxelder bugs primarily feed on seed-bearing boxelder trees, ash trees, and maple trees. Remove or reduce these trees in your yard.
• Regular pruning: Trim branches to reduce the resting and hiding spots for boxelder bugs.
• Keep gardens clean: Clean fallen leaves and debris from your yard, as they can serve as a breeding ground for these insects.

Pros of removing seed-bearing trees:

• Reduces boxelder bug food sources
• Decreases potential infestations

Cons of removing seed-bearing trees:

• Loss of tree benefits, such as shade and aesthetics

Garden Care

• Use a garden hose: Dislodge boxelder bugs from plants by spraying them with a strong jet of water.
• Pest control: Consider using natural pest control solutions, such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil, to deter boxelder bugs in gardens.
• Monitor temperatures: Boxelder bugs thrive in hot temperatures, which makes taking precautions during warm months crucial.

Taking good care of your garden is essential in preventing boxelder bug infestations.

Keep in mind that diligent tree maintenance and garden care can significantly reduce boxelder bug populations and protect your home from possible infestations.

Natural Enemies of Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs, while often seen as pests in many households, play a role in the broader ecosystem, serving as food for several predators.

Leveraging these natural adversaries can offer an environmentally-friendly approach to managing boxelder bug populations.

Birds: A variety of avian species have been observed feeding on boxelder bugs. Among them, robins, sparrows, and starlings are particularly keen on these insects, especially during their more vulnerable nymph stages.

Encouraging these birds to visit your garden, perhaps by setting up birdhouses or providing seeds, can help in naturally reducing boxelder bug numbers.

Beneficial Beetles: Some beetles, such as the ladybug and ground beetles, prey on boxelder bugs.

These beetles not only help in controlling boxelder bug populations but also target other garden pests, making them valuable allies for gardeners.

Spiders: Many spider species are opportunistic feeders and won’t hesitate to capture and consume boxelder bugs.

Jumping spiders and wolf spiders are among those that might help in keeping the bug numbers in check.

Praying Mantises: These fascinating insects are known for their predatory prowess. They have a varied diet and will readily consume boxelder bugs when available.

Promoting a garden environment that welcomes these natural predators can help strike a balance in the local ecosystem.

Safe and Effective Disposal

Properly Handling Pests

Vacuuming can be a quick method to capture boxelder bugs. Empty the vacuum’s dust bag immediately to prevent their escape¹.

Sealing vents and openings can help keep these nuisance insects out of your home².

Remember, boxelder bugs are harmless and don’t bite or sting. They are a nuisance insect, not a threat to your health.

Avoiding Stains and Injuries

When dealing with boxelder bugs, be cautious not to crush them. Their “juices” can cause stains on fabrics³.

Sweep them outside or use a vacuum for easy cleanup⁴. Dermestid beetles, a similar nuisance insect, can also be handled in the same way.

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Additional Tips and Considerations

Potential Harm to Humans and Pets

Although boxelder bugs are not poisonous, their excrement can stain fabrics, making them unwelcome indoor visitors.

In addition, some pets, like dogs, may experience drooling if they come into contact with the bugs.

To safeguard humans and pets from potential harm, consider using natural remedies when dealing with boxelder bug infestations.

• Liquid dish soap: A mixture of water and liquid dish soap can help reduce their numbers. Spray it directly on the bugs and egg clusters.
• Vinegar: A vinegar solution can be used to clean the areas where the bugs have been spotted.

Conclusion