Stink bugs are common household pests that get their name from the unique way they protect themselves from predators. When they feel threatened, a gland on their abdomen produces an unpleasant odor. While these bugs aren't dangerous, they do require pest control, as they can damage ornamental plants, fruit trees, and gardens. To get rid of the stink bugs in your home, follow these steps.

Pest Control Tips for Stink Bugs

1. Keep Fruit Refrigerated

Ripening fruit on the counter is a powerful attraction for stink bugs. To avoid drawing them into your house, keep ripe fruit in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. If you have an outdoor garden or orchard, collect fruit when it's ripe and dispose of fruit and nuts on the ground instead of letting them rot. Stink bugs also enjoy blossoming trees and blooming flowers, so plant these away from your house when possible.

2. Prevent Access

Stink bugs can enter a home through tiny openings, so repair cracks in the siding and foundation to keep them out. Also, fix tears in your screen door or replace the netting when it becomes worn. Finally, caulk around windows and install weatherstripping on the bottom and sides of doors, even if you live in a mild climate.

3. Turn Off Outdoor Lights

At night, stink bugs are drawn to lights. Therefore, turn off your porch lights, draw your curtains and shades, and minimize landscape lighting. If you need to illuminate the yard after dark, consider installing a bug zapper to provide a bit of light and help keep pest populations in check.

If these methods aren’t ridding your property of stink bugs, contact Acme Pest Control in Mooresville or Concord, NC. They’ve served Cabarrus County for more than 70 years and specialize in residential and commercial pest control, including bedbug, stinging insect, termite, and roach control. Learn more about their services on their website, or call (704) 786-4166 to make an appointment.