Getting Rid of Lady Bugs

I have determined that only the smartest and hardiest bugs make it through the season. This is good for those bugs, but horrible for those of us who have to deal with them coming in to get out of the cold. There was this gnat flying around my computer yesterday, and no matter how many times I tried, I couldn’t get him. I know I hit him at least once, and he still kept flying around. It’s the same thing with the lady bugs and flies. The flies die off pretty quickly, but the lady bugs are a nuisance. They smell, and they seem to know what’s up when the vacuum cleaner turns on and they all start hiding. Ladybugs are good to have in the garden, and fairly attractive as far as bugs go, so mostly the goal is to control the population and keep them out of the house. Here’s some tricks of the trade I’ve learned over the years, that may be helpful to you. And as always, the fewer harsh chemicals used, the better for everyone.

1. Keep your doors and windows shut during the fall. This is an open invitation!
2. If you have a very bad infestation, put towels or rags in the cracks of your doors. Looks horrible, but only for a month, and really helps keep the numbers down.
3. If you can’t remember the last time you caulked your windows, now would be a great time to get that done.
4. Bug strips can be placed in window sills and work great at catching those that do get in, and deterring more from entering.
5. Wipe your walls and window sills with bleach water. This acts as a deterrent.
6. Vacuuming is a quick fix, but they will find their way out if you don’t empty it immediately. Be prepared for them to release their defensive stink with a vacuum as well. For really bad infestations burn the ones you vacuum up to control the population.

image courtesy of micky007 on stock.xchng.