Dealing with stink bugs in the garden or inside of your house can be a process. Depending on how big the stink bug infestation is, you might have to do a lot or very little to get rid of them. Their name holds true to their nature. Stink bugs release a disgusting odor as a defense to predators when threatened. With enough stink bugs running around your property, your garden will pay the price as well as your sanity. However, there are certain methods people use to get rid of stink bugs. Luckily, you’ll know just what to do with stink bugs after reading this article.
Dealing With Stink Bugs In The Garden
Stink bugs are attracted to gardens that have an abundance of fruits and vegetables. The more produce available to them, the larger the infestation is likely to be. However, don’t take this as a sign that there’s something wrong with your garden. The fact there are a bunch of bugs and pests running around means that your garden is thriving and everyone, including the little bugs, wants a piece of it. Another good thing to know about stink bugs is that they tend to hibernate during cold seasons and reappear in early spring. You can prepare your garden before they start invading your personal space in the garden or in your house. Weeding the garden is usually a good start to prevent stink bugs.
The larvae and adults will feed on whatever plant is readily available to them as well as any fruits or vegetables. If there is any yard waste, organic debris, or decaying vegetation, stink bugs will be attracted to your garden. They love hiding places and will use every resource in order to remain hidden so they can slowly devour your plants. They especially love wood and other sturdy items they can call home. Some of their favorite produce revolves around corn, tomatoes, beans, and peppers. A few stink bugs won’t cause too much harm to a healthy garden. However, an infestation will have dramatic effects on your plants altogether. Of course, you want to avoid using pesticides as much as possible and only as a last result.
How To Protect Your Home
Usually, the best way to stop stink bugs from invading your home is a thorough investigation. Look for any crevice, opening, crack, anywhere that you think a stink bug can wedge itself through. These pests are skilled at sneaking into places that they’re not wanted. This includes windows, floorboards, doorways, they will find a way in if it exists. Seal everything up as tightly as you can make it. Some people decide to re-caulk or destroy the entryway for these bugs entirely. Stink bugs are also prone to swarming damp towels or wet cloth. Soaking a wash cloth or towel then draping it over a railing or lawn chair can coax them out of hiding. Try setting the wet cloth out at night and check it again in the morning. Have a bucket of hot soapy water ready then submerge the towel trap into the bucket. This will effectively kill whatever pest that is trapped in the towel or cloth.
There are some spray repellants that you can use as well that have proven effective. Most people use cedar spray as a repellant for stink bugs, as they cannot stand the aroma. Another method involves rubbing dryer sheets on the infested area. Stink bugs seem to hate odors that are contrary to their own. The more aromatic you can make these entryways, the more it will deter stink bugs from invading your space. There are also other pest products that you can research a little more into that you can buy from the store. We recommend that you stray from poisons or chemicals as much as possible for these problems. Be sure to read the labels of what you’re purchasing as to avoid making your animals or children sick from potential exposure.
