Non Toxic Elimination of Stink Bugs

2010-12-07

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Spreading Diatomaceous Earth

When faced with a stink bug infestation, it is best to tackle the problem strategically. Create a barrier between the interior of the house and the exterior environment by using the natural occurring powder, diatomaceous Earth (DE). DE is a powerful substance that attacks the surface of the stink bug in much the same way desiccants absorb moisture, or the way salt shrivels slugs. When the stink bug comes into contact with DE, its exoskeleton begins to dehydrate and eventually, the stink bug dies.

Usually, DE is sprinkled in the attic, along gutters, and under siding. To ensure an uniform layer of DE, use a pump duster or hand duster to spread the powder.

DE is composed of fossilized diatoms, which are microscopic plankton. Diatoms are a food source for all sorts of marine life. When diatoms die, their exoskeleton accumulates at the bottom of the ocean and overtime these large deposits of DE have become accessible to mining.

It is very important to use food-grade quality DE for the non toxic elimination of stink bugs. This type of DE is commonly sold as a dietary supplement and is safe and non-toxic. It is usually mined from pure fresh water deposits.

Spraying Insecticidal Soap

Once an effective barrier has been put in place, it is time to eliminate stink bugs that are in the interior of the house. A spray bottle is a vital weapon in this fight and so is a large cup of hot water. The final ingredient is soap. There are several brands of insecticidal soap that are effective at weakening stink bugs, but most have a hard time killing them. For the non toxic elimination of stink bugs, look for brands that contain phosphate soaps derived from the neem tree. These are generally more effective at eliminating stink bugs.

Usually, spraying insecticidal soap onto a stink bug that is crawling on a wall causes it to fall. This is where the large cup of hot water comes into play. Hold the cup under the bug and spray away. It will fall in and drown. Adding a few drops of dishwashing soap to the cup will create a sudsy solution that will help the process along.

Setting Sticky Traps

Set up sticky traps in various areas, including near the windows and doors. Also set traps near bright lights, since stink bugs are attracted to light. A few stink bugs will unwittingly get stuck in the traps. Simply throw the traps in a trash bag with the bugs attached.

Preventing Stink Bugs From Returning

Once you have created a stink bug free zone in your house, take a few steps to avoid any re-occurrence of stink bugs. For example, prune trees that are close to the house to prevent the insect from migrating via branches. Also, use extracts of herbs that tend to repel insects, such as mint and garlic. Create a mint spray by mixing water with mint essential oil, and create a garlic spray by mixing water with garlic powder. Spray the solution outside around windows, in the garden, and at the edges of lawns.

Image by Dendroica from Flickr