Boxelder bugs can be a nuisance, especially in the fall when they gather in large numbers around homes.
But don’t worry about their presence too much. There are natural ways to keep them at bay, using repellent sprays.
Below are some practical options you can try.
1. Soap Spray
A simple water and dish soap solution can do wonders in repelling bugs.
Yes, plain liquid soap and water can make an effective homemade bug spray for boxelder bugs.
Mix four tablespoons of liquid dish soap with a gallon of water. Next, pour the soapy water mixture into a spray bottle and shake it well.
Finally, spray it directly onto the bugs. The soap will block the openings that they breathe through and suffocate them to death.
2. Horticultural Oils
Horticultural oils are another natural option. You can buy these oils commercially and apply them accordingly.
These oils smother the insects, disrupting their ability to breathe.
Dilute the oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it directly onto the bugs.
3. Vinegar Spray
Vinegar, mainly white vinegar, can also help repel boxelder bugs.
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it around entry points such as windows and doors.
Vinegar is a pest deterrent because its pungent smell is unpleasant to boxelder bugs and other pests.
4. Neem Oil Spray
Neem oil is a popular natural pesticide that can control various pests, including boxelder bugs.
Mix two tablespoons of neem oil with 1 gallon of water and spray it around your home. Focus on areas where bugs like to hide.
According to pest control experts, neem oil disrupts insects’ life cycles [1]. It prevents them from growing and reproducing.
5. Diatomaceous Earth Spray
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is also great for pest control. It damages the exoskeleton of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Mix eight tablespoons of food-grade diatomaceous earth with two cups of water to create a DIY DE spray. Shake well and spray it on the boxelder bugs that you spot.
Keep in mind that DE will settle at the bottom. Therefore, shake the solution well every two minutes or so as you spray.
This method works well both indoors and outdoors.
6. Essential Oil Spray
Some essential oils, like clove, eucalyptus, or lavender oil, can keep away boxelder bugs.
Add 50 drops of your chosen essential oil to one cup of water. Next, shake well and spray around areas where boxelder bugs are present.
Boxelder bugs and other insects hate the scent of these essential oils. However, the oils are safe and natural, with pleasant scents for people.
7. ECOWORKS EC
ECOWORKS EC is a natural pesticide that contains cold-pressed neem oil.
It’s an effective product for tackling boxelder bugs, as it works to kill both adult bugs and their eggs.
Follow the product’s instructions on how to use it. It can be used in gardens and other outdoor and indoor spaces.
8. Monterey Fruit Tree Spray Plus
Monterey Fruit Tree Spray Plus is another natural option that combines neem oil and pyrethrins.
It’s safe to use around fruit trees and gardens, making it a good choice if you need a solution that won’t harm your plants while repelling boxelder bugs. However, it is for outdoor use only.
Apply it according to the label instructions and spray it directly onto the pests. It will kill boxelder bug eggs, nymphs, and adult bugs.
Plants That Repel Boxelder Bugs
Apart from this list of DIY sprays, some plants can help tackle your boxelder bug problem. That’s because of their pungent scents, especially when the leaves are bruised.
Herbs like lavender, sage, and mint are effective deterrents. Marigolds, which produce a strong odor, can also help organically keep away boxelder bugs.
Additionally, some chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide [2]. This makes them an excellent choice for repelling boxelder bugs and other pests.
Planting these around your home can create a natural barrier against boxelder bug infestations.
Takeaway
By using these natural sprays, you can effectively control boxelder bug infestations without relying on harsh chemicals.
If you need more tips, this article contains more home remedies for getting rid of boxelder bugs naturally.
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