Boxelder Bugs
Boxelder Bug
The seed-bearing boxelder tree is home to the boxelder bug. In late April or early May, after the adults emerge from hibernation and the females lay clusters of eggs, the babies will begin to feed on fallen boxelder seeds and then move to new tree leaves. These pests also favor your Silver Maple and Ash trees. Once the bugs have already begun to migrate into your home or office, it may be too late to take preventive action.
The adults may begin to overwinter in late summer or early fall. They like the cracks and crevices in your siding. If the boxelders have made their way into your home, it is best to wait until early summer when all the adults that overwintered are out of the walls. At that point, Russell’s would suggest caulking exterior windows, doors, and siding around late June or July to prevent the boxelder bugs from gaining access next year.
Russell’s Pest Control can help reduce the invasion of these pests. However, timing is crucial to its effectiveness. If you live in Lenoir City, Maryville or any of the surrounding cities, you’ve probably had boxelder bugs in the past. If so, let us know so we can apply an effective treatment between mid-September and late October to help reduce the population from entering your home this year.
