Insecticide for Box Elder Bugs

A boxelder bug (Boisea trivittatus) measures 1/2 inch long and is black with orange or red markings. While not harmful, boxelder bugs are nuisances during fall when they try to get into homes to overwinter.

Location

Spraying insecticides works best in late summer and fall when boxelder bugs gather outside buildings. Insecticides can't effectively control an indoor boxelder bug infestation because they don't prevent more bugs from coming inside.

Types

Some insecticide active ingredients that homeowners can use to treat the exterior of buildings include carbaryl, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, lambda cyhalothrin, permethrin, tralomethrin and azadiractin. The insecticide container should have boxelder bugs listed on the label.

Application

Spraying insecticides onto surfaces where boxelder bugs congregate helps with the infestation. Focus on the foundation, sides of the building, nearby trees and crevices in the building through which the bugs can enter.

Warning

These insecticides may be harmful and need careful handling. Preventing direct contact with eyes, nose, mouth and skin minimizes risk. Storing unused insecticides in a dry, locked area keeps them out of reach of children and pets.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: Boxelder Bugs; Jeffrey Hahn and Mark Ascerno; 2007
• University of Missouri Extension: Boxelder Bug; Richard Houseman; October 2008