How to Kill Stink Bugs
If you have stinkbugs, chances are you'd like to know how to kill them. Stinkbugs are insects that look like large beetles and range in color from brown and gray to bright green. And the name suits them, because they stink.
If there are stinkbugs in the garden and the house, the first thing to do is keep the area clean. Remove weeds and foliage, which the bugs use as a cover. Try sprinkling kaolin clay over the ground and spray your plants with a kaolin clay solution. Stinkbugs are slow moving in the early hours and can be hand picked. Be sure to wear gloves as the bugs will stain skin and the smell is hard to get rid off. Lemon juice is recommended as an antidote.
One of the weapons in the war against stinkbugs is Dawn dish soap (the blue original formula). Get a bucket or cut the top off of a plastic milk jug. Mix a heavy amount of the soap with water. Using rubber gloves, drop the bugs into the solution.
A spray bottle filled with rubbing alcohol will also work. Spray the bugs until saturated. They will fall and die.
Stinkbugs enter the house, looking for warmth. Try to prevent them from entering by sealing cracks, replacing damaged screens on doors and windows. A vacuum is excellent for removing them, but be sure to dispose of the bag immediately. If using a work vacuum, fill it with a small amount of soapy water. Be sure to empty it because the smell will remain, so rinse it carefully. Do not kill the bugs, as their smell will attract more stinkbugs. A homemade insecticide can be used.
Materials
- Large container that will hold 4 quarts
- 1 quart vinegar
- 3 quarts water
- 1 cup borax
- Sprayer
Mix the water, vinegar together, add borax, and pour into the sprayer. Do not spray on painted wood. Spray around outside foundation of the house. If the infestation is out of hand, professional help will be needed.
