Boisea trivittata (the boxelder bug or American maple ladybug) which frequently plagues boxelder and maple trees, is known to congregate in large hordes. Luckily these insects don't do much damage to homes or plants, but they can still be a nuisance because of their large numbers. In addition, Boisea trivittata also emits a strong pungent odor, especially when there are large quantities of it or if it is crushed. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to get rid of these bugs and prevent them from coming back.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Getting Rid of Boisea trivittata
Step 1. Wear adequate safety equipment before exterminating insects
You should look for the safest way when dealing with insecticides or other chemicals. Wear heavy-duty gloves, protective eyewear, a dust mask, long-sleeved shirt and long pants. That way, you will prevent the chemical from getting into your eyes, skin or nose.
- When you choose an insecticidal product, read the label carefully for specific instructions for safe use.
- Even if the product is harmless to humans, such as diatomaceous earth, it is better to protect yourself. Insecticide powders can irritate the lungs if you inhale large amounts of them. Insecticides can also make the eyes very dry.
Step 2. Use food-grade diatomaceous earth to eradicate large flocks of Boisea trivittata
Before using a dangerous insecticide, try a safer material. Following the directions for use on the label, use a duster or a large spoon to sprinkle the diatomaceous earth around the base of the box elder or maple tree. Then, sprinkle the powder around the house, especially on the doors and windows.
- You'll need to do this again after it rains or if the bugs return.
- Diatomaceous earth is not toxic to humans and pets, but is deadly to Boisea trivittata. This is because this fine silica-based powder affects the insect's exoskeleton, and this is what kills it.
- If you want, you can use borax instead of diatomaceous earth. These boron-based compounds are also safe to use around the home.
Step 3. Spray the outdoor area with insecticide if insects are swarming
Boisea trivittata releases a chemical that will attract other Boisea trivittata, to then form a large flock. This condition usually occurs in the fall when the insects are looking for a warm place to spend the winter. If the insects have gathered in large numbers, use insecticides to eradicate them. Follow the instructions for use specific to the product being used, observe all safety precautions listed, and spray all walls where insects congregate.
- You can also use insecticides to create a perimeter around the house and keep insects out.
- Look for commercial preparations that list Boisea trivittata or boxelder bug on the label. Common chemicals for residential pesticide use include bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and deltamethrin.
- Keep children and pets away from insecticide-treated areas.
Do you know?
Boisea trivittata assemblages are commonly found on the south and west sides of the house because the walls on these sides are warmed by the sun throughout the day.
Step 4. Suck up the bugs
If you have a vacuum cleaner with a hose, all that's left is to suck up the bugs. Then, take the bag out or empty the contents into a trash bag, tying the bag tightly before throwing it away. A tightly tied bag will prevent insects from escaping.
It is also an effective way to get rid of Boisea trivittata that enters the house
Step 5. Get professional help if the bugs are still not gone
If you've tried diatomaceous earth, borax, or chemical insecticides and Boisea trivittata hasn't gone away, you need to call a professional exterminator. The exterminator will see and assess the situation, and will usually provide an estimate of how much it will cost to resolve the issue. In most cases, the consultation is usually free, but make sure of this first.
If you've never used an exterminator, ask friends or family to see if they can recommend someone. Or search the internet for local exterminators to find the ones that get the most positive reviews
Method 2 of 2: Preventing Crowds of Boisea trivittata
Step 1. Sweep the boxelder seeds as soon as they fall
Boisea trivittata feed on the sap of the female boxelder tree which they get mainly from the seed pods. If you notice seed pods starting to fall off in the fall, sweep them frequently and throw them away. This will eliminate the Boisea trivittata's food sources and prevent them from gathering in your yard.
Boisea trivittata also feeds on other types of maple trees, although they are less common. If these insects appear to be attracted to other trees, brush off the leaves and seeds as soon as they fall
Step 2. Use a strong water spray to disperse a small group of insects
Since Boisea trivittata attracts friends, prevent large crowds from forming by disbanding smaller groups that are starting to form. If you see several Boisea trivittata clustered together, spray them with the strongest stream of water from the garden hose.
This spray will not kill Boisea trivittata or make insects leave the area. However, if you can disperse the small flock when they start to gather, Boisea trivittata won't be able to release the smell to summon her friends to the place
Step 3. Soak the bugs in soapy water to kill them quickly
Spraying Boisea trivittata alone will not kill it. So, use soapy water. Mix about 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of dish soap in a spray bottle full of water. When you see a Boisea trivittata on a wall, near a window sill, or anywhere else they congregate, just grab a bottle and spray until it's wet. This method is safer for getting rid of insects than using chemicals, but still very effective.
Tip:
If you see 1 or 2 bugs, just step on them with your sandals!
Step 4. Replace the female boxelder tree to remove Boisea trivittata permanently
If you've tried everything you can but it doesn't work, and the bugs are very annoying, consider cutting down the female tree. Hire a professional lumberjack to safely cut down the boxelder, then plant another tree to replace it on the spot.
- Male boxelder trees do not produce seed pods. So you don't have to cut it down.
- This step is an extreme solution to getting rid of insects that are generally less annoying. In most cases, the easiest way is to leave the tree and Boisea trivittata alone.
