Untamed Knowledge on Boxelder Bugs: A Gossiper's Guide
- Introducing the Pesky Boxelder Bug
- Beware: More Creepy Crawlies to Come
- A Sneaky Solution: Keeping Your Home Boxelder Bug-Free
Eliminating Boxelder Bugs Naturally: Secure Methods to Deter Annoying Pests
Dear reader, if I were to describe a boxelder bug, I'd imagine it like a uninvited family member who never quite knows when to leave, but thankfully as harmless as they come.
These critters might be a sight to behold with their vivid red and black armor, but don't fret—they won't set your home ablaze or gnaw on your flesh. However, their lingering presence can be more of a nuisance than welcome. Let's dig a little deeper and find out how to get rid of these unwanted visitors.
Identifying Boxelder Bugs
Much like how new faces can blend in unsuspectingly, boxelder bugs are not strangers to front yards or house exteriors. With their affinity for female boxelder trees, these pests are often spotted around them. But fret not, for there are other common trees they could be mistaken for such as certain types of maples and ashes.
Take a closer look, and you'll observe that boxelder bugs have a unique color scheme: red with black stripes and intricate designs. When in their larval stage, these critters begin life as a striking red delight. As they mature, they add some black bits and pieces to their overall appearance. Adult boxelder bugs tend to be 1/2 an inch long. So if you spot a pest the size of a small finger, it could very well be a boxelder bug!
Are Boxelder Bugs Harmful?
Boxelder bugs might be on par with those distant relatives who always show up uninvited and linger longer than they should, but they aren't villains here. They don't attack humans, pets, or even plant life. But alas, they do enjoy feeding on female boxelder trees, disfiguring maples, ash trees, and a few fruit trees in the absence of their favorite host. To the average homeowner, this might go unnoticed; however, for gardeners, the aesthetics can be quite daunting.
These bugs might not kill your plants, but they can spoil the appearance. And let's face it—when your home or garden is swarming with thousands of these insects, who wants that?
The Ultimate Trick to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
Apologies dear reader, but I have to break it to you: there's no magic wand, garlic garden, or sprinkling of fairy dust that'll make these pesks buzz off. However, there are several natural solutions for booting those bugs to the curb!
Vacuum to the Rescue
Good news, your vacuum isn't just for deep cleaning the carpets! It also doubles as a swell bug catcher. Whip out your vacuum cleaner, and suck those boxelder bugs away—indoors at least. Toss the vacuum bag into the garbage can, or if you prefer, store it in the freezer overnight to ensure they're history.
No conventional vacuum? Fret not! A trusty shop vac will do the trick. Consider the Craftsman 12 gallon wet/dry vacuum from Ace Hardware. It's mighty on boxelder bugs and can handle other messes around the house or shed too.
Closing the Door on Boxelder Bugs
Feeling hesitant about using your vacuum cleaner? Go the old-fashioned route: snatch em' up! Pluck up the bugs by hand or with a broom and dispose of them outdoors.
Seal Their Fate
Prevent further infiltration by boxelder bugs by sealing those cracks and gaps in your home. Apply caulk to seal windows, doors, and other entry points where these pesky critters may lurk. Don't forget installing screens on windows and doors, and adding weather stripping to keep those boxes at bay!
The Final Standoff
Worried about boxelder bugs taking over the exteriors of your house? Aim that hose and bring out the big guns! A high-power spray can wash the bugs off the walls, potentially drowning them too.
- When tending to your home and garden, consider adding a few home improvement tasks to your lifestyle, such as sealing cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and other entry points, to keep boxelder bugs from entering and making your home their new residence.
- If you're passionate about home-and-garden pursuits, don't forget that charming outdoor spaces can also be pest-free. In addition to maintaining the aesthetics of your garden, take time to learn efficient gardening methods like removing boxelder bug eggs and larvae from affected trees to minimize their population and preserve the beauty of your garden.
