The Stink Bug! “Brown Marmorated Stink Bug” (Halyomorpha halys). These pests are native to parts of Asia, were first observed in Allentown, Pa. in 2001 and have steadily migrated into Maryland. The good news is these pests are not harmful to people, pets or houses. They do not bite, sting or spread disease. They do not eat or bore into wood. They will eat leaves, buds, fruit and vegetables. The best control at this time is manually removing them from their location and squashing or drowning them in soapy water. Pesticides are toxic and generally ineffective so are not strongly recommended. If you squash them then you of course have to deal with the strong odor they emit. The smell does go away quickly. Adults gather in late summer/early fall and will be looking to find a safe place to overwinter. They especially like buildings. Check your home and seal any cracks or holes around windows, doors, vents, and spigots. Cracks can be sealed with a good quality silicone-latex caulk. Replace damaged screens and make sure door and window seals are still in place. These precautions should also help with your utility bills by sealing leaks from cold and heat entering and or leaving your home. In the spring the Stink Bug will emerge to mate and become a nuisance all over again. Or, like many, you may have been finding them crawling around your home all year.
There are insecticides available but at what risk? This is a harmless, nuisance pest and is it worth the exposure to toxic chemicals, the expense and time? If you choose to use a pesticide always read the label and follow directions and safety precautions carefully.
As a licensed Home Improvement Contractor and Pesticide applicator we would be happy to meet to discuss your needs and how we can be of service to you.
For further information you can contact the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension Service Home and Garden Information Center at 1-800-342-2507.
Butterflies! This is an insect that you might actually want to attract. If so, plant Buddleia Davidii more commonly known as the Butterfly Bush. This deciduous plant produces panicles of flowers that are ambrosia to Butterflies. It is fast growing, prolific and extremely attractive to Butterflies. Plant in full sun in moist, well drained soil. Prune back to live wood in spring and you will have a spectacular showing in mid-summer with blooms lasting into the fall. You can prune this plant year round for size and shape.
Download information brochure on stink bugs here!
For more information and images of BMSJ3, vi5it http://northeastipm. org/bmsb.
Stink Bug informational document provided by USDA-CSREES Integrated Pest Management Centers,Maryland Department of Agriculture, USDA-APHIS, and the Land-Grant University System. For