Sasha CampbellBoxelder bugs can be a nuisance, especially in the fall when they gather in large numbers around homes.
While boxelder bugs do not bite or damage your home, they can become a nuisance when large numbers gather indoors.
Although they can be annoying, there is no need to worry too much about them. There are natural ways to help control them, including homemade sprays and other treatments.
Natural sprays work best when used together with good home maintenance and prevention.
Natural Sprays to Keep Boxelder Bugs Away
Below are some practical options you can try.
1. Soap Spray for Boxelder Bugs
A simple water-and-dish-soap solution can help kill boxelder bugs when sprayed directly on them.
Yes, a combination of 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 can block their breathing openings and cause them to die.
2. Horticultural Oils
Horticultural oils are another natural option. You can buy these oils commercially and apply them accordingly.
These oils coat the insects and can block their breathing, causing them to die.
Dilute the oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it directly onto the bugs.
3. Vinegar Spray
Vinegar may help discourage boxelder bugs from entering certain areas, but it is not a guaranteed solution.
To give it a try, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and spray it around entry points (such as windows and doors).
The strong smell of vinegar may make some areas less attractive to boxelder bugs.
4. Neem Oil Spray
Neem oil is a popular natural pesticide that helps control many garden pests and may also help reduce boxelder bug numbers.
Mix 2 tablespoons of neem oil with 1 gallon of water, then spray it on areas where boxelder bugs gather, especially outdoors.
According to pest control experts, neem oil disrupts the life cycles of many insects [1]. It can interfere with the growth and reproduction of some insects.
5. Diatomaceous Earth Spray
Mix 4 tablespoons of food-grade diatomaceous earth with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Shake well before and during use, as the DE settles quickly.
Spray the mixture onto areas where boxelder bugs gather, such as around windows, doors, and siding. Once the water dries, the DE remains on the surface and can help control boxelder bugs that crawl over it.
For best results, reapply after rain or if the treated area is washed away.
6. Essential Oil Spray
Some essential oils, such as clove, eucalyptus, and lavender, have strong scents that may help discourage boxelder bugs.
Add 50 drops of your chosen essential oil and 1 teaspoon of liquid castile soap to 1 cup of water. Shake well before each use, then spray around areas where boxelder bugs are present.
7. ECOWORKS EC
ECOWORKS EC is a natural pesticide that contains cold-pressed neem oil.
It may help control boxelder bugs and other insect pests when used according to the label directions.
Follow the product’s instructions for use. 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 can help control many insect pests when used as directed on the label.
Plants That Repel Boxelder Bugs
In addition to the DIY sprays on this list, some plants can help tackle your boxelder bug problem. That’s because of their pungent scents, especially when the leaves are bruised.
Strong-smelling plants like lavender, sage, and mint may help make areas less attractive to boxelder bugs.
Additionally, some chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide [2]. This can help make your yard less attractive to some insect pests.
Planting these around your home may help reduce pest activity, but they work best when combined with other control methods.
Prevent Boxelder Bugs From Entering Your Home
Because boxelder bugs are mainly a fall nuisance, prevention is often more effective than sprays.
- Seal cracks around windows and doors.
- Repair damaged screens.
- Clean up fallen boxelder seeds and leaves near your home if possible.
- Vacuum up indoor bugs instead of crushing them, as they can stain surfaces.
- Remove piles of leaves and debris where they hide.
Takeaway
With these natural sprays and prevention tips, you can help keep boxelder bugs under control without using harsh chemicals.
If you need more tips, this article offers additional home remedies for naturally getting rid of boxelder bugs.
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