What Are Elm Seed Bugs and How Do I Prevent and Treat Them?

What Draws Elm Seed Bugs to East Idaho

Elm seed bugs have quickly become an issue for residents of East Idaho. These flying pests became a problem in the early 2010s, and have created a significant stronghold in the area. Drawn to the seeds of the Siberian Elm, these drought-resistant trees attract elm seed bugs in droves. Elm seed bugs look similar to boxelder bugs, with black and red markings on their backs, but they are slightly smaller in size. Unlike boxelder bugs, elm seed bugs flock to homes once the East Idaho heat becomes overwhelming. In order to escape the heat, these flying pests flock to air-conditioned homes to extend their lifespan while remaining close to the elm seeds they feast on. 

When disturbed, elm seed bugs release a foul odor to ward off predators and residents looking to remove elm seed bugs from their home.

Ways to Address Elm Seed Bugs at Your Home in East Idaho

While you may not be able to catch every single elm seed bug that flocks to your home, there are steps you can take to limit their presence and reduce their interest in your yard. Remove elm seeds and debris from around the home, as these are the primary source of feeding for elm seed bugs. Seal cracks around the home, repair damaged screens, and caulk around areas that provide small gaps where elm seed bugs can enter.

Consider purchasing a specific vacuum cleaner especially for elm seed bugs. A couple ways include using a shop vac to easily suck up elm seed bugs, or possibly a smaller handheld unit which you can easily dump shortly after. You can use a nylon stocking to catch elm seed bugs in the vacuum while also providing easier disposal. Avoid bug bombs or foggers to reduce elm seed bug activity. Their tiny bodies and ability to hide deep within the walls will reduce its effectiveness and cost more money than they are worth. 

Professional Elm Seed Bug Control Services in East Idaho

While elm seed bugs don’t bite or actively seek residents to feed on, they can create an infestation that is difficult to eradicate. Unlike boxelder bugs that may trickle in, elm seed bugs tend to migrate towards homes in East Idaho in the thousands. This can take a seemingly small problem and magnify it into something that can’t easily be managed with bug sprays or repellents.

Yard Defender begins by turning your yard into an inhospitable area for elm seed bugs to inhabit. This is done through a combination of liquid and granular treatments which are designed to reduce and control the elm seed bug population for 21 days. Our team will begin with a thorough assessment of your property to learn more about the areas of risk, layout, and how elm seed bugs may ultimately enter the home. Once elm seed bugs make their way into East Idaho homes, the pest control needs begin to shift.

Home Shield acts as a defense against the entry of elm seed bugs, boxelder bugs, and other pests which may try to enter your home. This pest control program focuses on exclusion methods by sealing up points of entry around the home, while laying specialty baits and EPA-registered products to reduce the current population. 

Whether you want to defend your yard in East Idaho from elm seed bugs or create a barrier around your home, our team will help design a comprehensive pest control plan for your needs. With the combination of Yard Defender and Home Shield, your treatments will run on the same 3-week cycle to ensure that your overall pest control plan is fully aligned.

For Reliable Elm Seed Bug Control in East Idaho Near You

Seeing unfamiliar brown bugs congregating on your Idaho home? Call Mosquito Squad Plus of East Idaho at (208) 547-5970 or contact us online for a free quote.