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How do I Control a Stink Bug Infestation?

By K. Gierok
Updated May 17, 2024
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As the name suggests, stink bugs release a disturbing smell, especially while frightened or feeling defensive. In addition, stink bugs can be very damaging to a number of common plants, including foliage, vegetables, and fruit trees. One of the best ways to prevent a stink bug infestation is through the use of man-made stink bug repellents. In addition, growing plants that attract stink bug predators can also effective deter the insects from a yard or garden. Those who are concerned about stink bug infestation in their homes should be sure to seal all cracks, replace damaged screens, and use care when replacing them.

One of the best ways to control a stink bug infestation is by using stink bug repellents that are man-made. In many cases, one of the best ways to control stink bug infestation is through the use of double cone traps that contain specific pheromones. For best results, these traps should be placed around the border of a garden or yard in order to deter the stink bugs from entering the area. Individuals who are pet owners and who are considering using double cone traps should use use caution when allowing the animals in the yard, as products contained in the traps can be toxic to many creatures, not just stink bugs.

In some cases, growing certain plants which attract stink bug predators may be a more effective way to deal with a stink bug infestation. Fennel and dill plants, along with others that produce high amounts of pollen or nectar, are great examples of vegetation that attract wasps, assassin bugs, tachinid flies, and others which commonly feast on stink bugs. In order to achieve optimal results when attracting stink bug predators, it is important that the plants flower regularly. Individuals who have difficulty getting their plants to flower may want to consider consulting with a botanist, who may be able to provide advise on plant location and care.

Those who are concerned about stink bug infestation in their homes should use extra care when it comes to sealing all cracks. Caulk that is silicone or silicone-latex based has been found to be most effective when it comes to preventing stink bug infestation in a home. In addition, as damaged screens can lead to stink bug infestation, they should be replaced or repaired immediately when the damage is first identified. Care should be taken when replacing these screens in order to ensure a secure seal.

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Discussion Comments

By anon1005601 — On Oct 05, 2021

What kind of bait do you use to attract the bugs into the cone trap?

By Sporkasia — On May 05, 2014

Given the options mentioned in this article, I prefer planting herbs and flowers in my garden that repel the stink bugs. However, you can also make stink bug traps with natural products that you find within your home.

The homemade traps are similar to the cone traps mentioned in this article. You can use plastic drink bottles to make the traps. They are simple to make and you can do a little research and find out which substances are most likely to lure the bugs into the traps.

Again, when it comes to getting rid of stink bugs, I prefer to repel them rather than kill them, but the traps do work.

By Animandel — On May 05, 2014

One year, out of the blue, we began to find large numbers of stink bugs at our sun room windows. In the beginning, we noticed them on the outside of the windows. Then some managed to get beyond the storm windows and the screen and onto the window sills.

Once they reached the window sills, they were able to enter the house whenever we opened a window to take in fresh air. I was amazed at the number of them that would gather at the windows each day.

We considered calling an exterminator, and had decided to do exactly that. Then one day we were in the garden center at a local home improvement store and found a spray that was advertised to provide a border between your home and bugs and other insects and pests. We decided to give the product a try since it was less expensive than an exterminator.

Well, the spray worked for the most part. We still see the occasional bug and spider, but the stink bug infestation was cleared up.

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