Boxelder bug eradication outside: 9 easy steps (with pictures)

1. 1

   When handling insecticides, always use the proper protective gear. When handling chemicals, such as insecticides, you can never be too careful. Put on long sleeves and pants, a dust mask, and safety glasses if necessary. In this way, you can protect your eyes, skin, and lungs from the chemicals. [1]

   • Read the label carefully before purchasing a product to ensure its safe use.
   • Diatomaceous earth isn't harmful to humans, but it's still smart to wear protective gear just in case. If you breathe in too much of the powder, it can irritate your lungs, and it can also be very drying to your eyes.

2. 2

   For massive infestations of boxelder bugs, you can use diatomaceous earth safe for human consumption. Avoid using harmful pesticides by switching to a less toxic method first. Use a hand duster or a large scoop to scatter diatomaceous earth around the trunks of your boxelder or maple trees, as directed by the manufacturer. Then, liberally dust the outside of your home, paying special attention to the areas around the windows and doors. [2]

   • If it rains or the bugs return, you'll need to apply this treatment again.
   • Diatomaceous earth is safe for people and pets, but it will kill anything that eats boxelder bugs. The fine silica-based powder has an adverse effect on the exoskeletons of insects, resulting in their demise. [3]
   • If you don't have access to diatomaceous earth, you can substitute Borax. Furthermore, this boron-based compound has no known dangers when used in domestic settings.

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3. 3

   If the insects are swarming around your home, spray the exterior with insecticide. Swarms of insects can form when boxelder bugs secrete a chemical that attracts more of the same species. In the fall, when insects are looking for a cozy place to spend the winter, this phenomenon is especially prevalent. The use of insecticide is recommended in the event of a swarm. Spray the entire wall where the boxelder bugs are congregating, making sure to follow all of the product's application and safety instructions. [4]

   • Another use for the insecticide is to set up a barrier around your house to keep the boxelder bugs outside.
   • Look for a commercial preparation that lists boxelder bugs on the label Bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and deltamethrin are common pesticide chemicals used in homes.
   • Avoid exposing children and animals to insecticide-treated areas.

   Is It True Swarms of boxelder bugs are most often seen on the south and west sides of houses, where the sun warms the walls all day long.

4. 4

   Take out the trash and the bug clumps with the vacuum. Sucking them up in a shop vac or vacuum with an attachment hose is a quick and easy way to disperse large numbers of boxelder bugs. Finally, remove the bag from the vacuum or empty the contents of the canister into a garbage bag, and double-bag it before disposing of it. The bugs won't be able to flee now. [5]

   • This method is also useful for getting rid of boxelder bugs if they find their way inside your home.

5. 5

   If you have tried everything and the bugs still persist, it's time to call in the pros. Calling a professional exterminator may be necessary if diatomaceous earth, borax, or commercial insecticides haven't succeeded in getting rid of the boxelder bugs. Typically, the exterminator will visit your home, inspect the damage, and then provide you with a written estimate of the cost to complete the necessary repairs. Consultations are typically cost-free, but you should verify this information. [6]

   • If you have never hired an exterminator before, you should ask for recommendations from people you trust or look for exterminators in your area that have received mostly positive reviews online.

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1. 1

   Collect boxelder seeds as soon as they fall by raking the ground. Female boxelder trees provide the sap that boxelder bugs feed on. The bugs typically harvest the sap from the seedpods. Seed pods should be raked up and disposed of as soon as you see them falling in the fall. As a result, the bugs will be less likely to congregate in your yard. [7]

   • Even though it's not as common, boxelder bugs will occasionally feed on other kinds of maple trees. As soon as the leaves and seeds fall from any tree, especially one that the boxelder bugs seem to favor, rake them up.

2. 2

   To disperse clumps of insects, spray them with a strong jet of water. Boxelder bugs are highly social, so if you can stop them from forming into larger groups, you'll do your part to reduce the likelihood of an infestation. Spraying a group of boxelder bugs with a high-pressure hose is an effective method of getting rid of them. [8]

   • You won't be able to kill the bugs or make them leave your property, but if you do this right as they're starting to congregate, you can prevent them from spreading their pheromones.

3. 3

   Kill insects quickly by dousing them in soapy water. Bugs can be killed by spraying them with soapy water, but not plain water. In a spray bottle full of water, add about 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of dish soap. Simply grab your spray bottle and saturate any boxelder bugs you see on the side of your house, near your windowsill, or anywhere else they may congregate. In comparison to chemical pesticides, this method is safer and just as effective. [9]

   If you only see one or two bugs, you can kill them by stomping on them.

4. 4

   If you really want to get rid of the bugs, you should probably get rid of the female boxelder trees. It's possible that cutting down the female boxelder trees is your only option if you've exhausted all other methods and they're still a major problem. Get a tree service to come and remove the female boxelder tree so you can replace it with a new tree. [10]

   • Because male boxelder trees do not bear seedpods, there is no need to remove them.
   • This is a drastic measure to eliminate an insect that typically doesn't cause any discomfort. It's usually easier to keep your tree and live with the bugs.

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