Protect from stink bugs

Q. My house is invaded with stink bugs. Help me!

Rosie from Boardman

A. Aren’t we all! The brown marmorated stink bug is well-named for two reasons. Obviously, when stomped on, it emits a rotten smell, and it’s a real stinker to get rid of – but not impossible. The good news: It won’t damage your home (no structural damage) or bite your family (vegetarian); it moves slowly, which makes it easy to dispose of with a shop vac (empty into garbage); killing stink bugs will not attract more.

OK, they’re annoying, not deadly. But no one likes to live with bugs. According to Lynn Kimsey, professor of entomology at the University of California-Davis, “The urban pests are indiscriminate on what they feed on, and often invade homes in large groups.” Keeping counters, cabinets and pantries free of loose food removes their source of nourishment. Makes sense. What about spraying/bombing your home with pesticides? Dangerous and, according to most experts, whether inside or around the perimeter of your home, they are short-lived and ineffective. Or there are self-proclaimed bug advocates who prefer to protect them by cupping them gently in their hands and re-introducing them to their natural environment. Hmmm.

How about a homemade trap? Virginia Tech’s College of Agricultural and Life Science tested the “light trap” approach. They placed an aluminum baking pan of water and dish soap under a light to attract the stink bugs, which fell into the water and were disposed of. They trapped 14 times more stink bugs than other so-called bug traps that are messy and dangerous around children.

How about keeping them out of the home in the first place? This is the labor-intensive news: It will take some elbow grease and vigilance on your part. All the research suggests you first protect your home. Purchase multiple tubes of silicone or silicone-based caulking. Seal all cracks around the windows/screens, doors and foundations. It also will help to caulk all outside utility openings – cable, telephone, electrical boxes (including window air conditioners) that offer access to your home (npic.orst.edu/Rutgers). Keeping bugs out uses more of your energy and time, but, it is the treatment that is most effective. Good luck, Rosie.

Today’s answer provided By Lillian Quaranta, OSU Extension master gardener volunteer. Call the office hotline at 330-533-5538 to submit your questions. Regular clinic hours are 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Thursdays.