Sasha CampbellStink bugs may not be the most harmful insects, but they can still be a nuisance in your home and garden. Their name hints at the unpleasant odor they release when threatened; no one wants that lingering around!
However, there are natural solutions (even DIY ones) to help keep these critters away.
If you’re looking for eco-friendly, non-toxic ways to repel stink bugs, these natural sprays might be just what you need.
1. Kaolin Clay Spray
When applied, kaolin clay creates a protective film on plants. It discourages insects from feeding or laying eggs.
Mix 3 cups of kaolin clay (this brand) with 1 gallon of water to make the spray.
Spray it evenly over plants and fruits, covering all surfaces. The clay creates a barrier that makes it difficult for stink bugs to land.
Reapply after rain or heavy dew to maintain effectiveness.
2. Citrus Spray
The scent of citrus also repels stink bugs.
Therefore, you can make a citrus bug spray to apply around windows, doors, and other areas where stink bugs get in.
Add 50 drops of citrus essential oil (like lemon oil) to 4 ounces of water. Add a teaspoon of liquid soap, shake it up, and use it accordingly.
3. Neem Oil Spray
Neem oil can get rid of bugs organically. You can use it for stink bug problems around the house or garden.
Mix two teaspoons of neem oil with 4 cups of water to use. Spray it on areas where stink bugs are a problem.
However, for plants, use 1 teaspoon of neem oil with 4 cups of water instead.
4. Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Spray
This product is often used as a remedy for organic pest control. It works by dehydrating insects upon contact.
Mix 1/2 cup of DE powder with 2 cups of water to make a killer stink bug spray.
Next, shake well and spray it on plants or around areas where stink bugs gather. However, since the powder will settle to the bottom, you must keep shaking it as you go.
The solution will be on their bodies as the stink bugs crawl over the wet leaves or surfaces. Once the water evaporates from the DE mixture, the powder will remain on the bugs, dehydrating them.
5. Garlic Spray
Garlic has long been used as a natural pest repellent. Stink beetles and many other insects do not like it.
To make a homemade stink bug repellent, blend two bulbs of garlic with 1 quart of water. Let the mixture steep overnight, then strain and add a few drops of dish soap.
Spray this garlic-infused water on your plants to deter stink bugs. You can also apply it around your home if you can tolerate its smell.
6. Soap Spray
A simple insecticide soap spray can cause stink bugs to dehydrate and die if applied directly to them.
Mix one teaspoon of liquid dish soap with 1 quart of water. Spray the solution directly on the bugs.
Soapy water is a quick, inexpensive home remedy to kill stink bugs. However, use a gentle soap to avoid harming your plants.
7. Hot Pepper Spray
Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the heat in hot peppers. It is a natural insect irritant [1].
Simmer three tablespoons of hot pepper flakes in a gallon of water to make a hot pepper spray. Remove from the heat after 15 minutes, then let it rest for 24 hours.
Afterward, strain the liquid and add a tablespoon of liquid dish soap.
Spray the mixture directly on plants and around doorways to repel stink bugs. This fiery repellent is very effective but may need to be reapplied after rain.
8. Essential Oil Spray
Essential oils are popularly used as natural insect repellents.
Certain scents overwhelm stink bugs’ senses, making your home or garden uninviting to them. Oils like wintergreen, rosemary, and clove can help keep away stink bugs.
Mix 50 drops of your chosen oil with a cup of water and a few drops of dish soap to make an essential oil spray.
Spray this around areas where stink bugs are seen or likely to appear. The scents of these oils will help stop them from entering your home.
9. Vinegar Spray
For many gardeners, vinegar works as a natural insect deterrent. It also works well against stink bugs.
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it directly to stink bugs to kill them.
You can also spray it on the surfaces they frequent. The vinegar smell is off-putting to these bugs and will help repel them.
10. Rubbing Alcohol
In a spray bottle, mix one part rubbing alcohol with three parts water.
Aim for the bugs by spraying them. Once the solution encounters their bodies, it will kill them almost instantly.
This solution can also kill bedbugs and their eggs [2].
11. Arber Bio-Insecticide
This natural insecticide is toxic to many insects, including stink bugs.
It is so powerful that it can be used in large-scale farming. Follow the label instructions for mixing and application.
12. AzaGuard
AzaGuard is an organic pesticide made from neem seeds. It contains azadirachtin, which can disrupt stink bugs’ life cycles.
Mix AzaGuard according to the package directions and spray it on plants to help control stink bug populations.
DIY Stink Bug Trap
A cheap DIY trap for brown marmorated stink bugs that have entered your home is a foil-roasting pan. Fill it with water and a little liquid soap, and place it in a dark area.
Next, shine a bright light on the pan. The light will draw the bugs to it, and they will drown in the pan of water.
Takeaway
These natural stink bug sprays are great alternatives to chemical pesticides. Rotate between different sprays for the best results.
For more tips, this article includes 17 natural remedies for getting rid of stink bugs.
Picture via metroparks.net
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