Asian lady beetles, often mistaken for native ladybugs or what they used to call them, ladybird beetle, have become a persistent nuisance in many parts of the world, especially in the United States. This species of ladybugs were initially introduced to help control aphids and other pests but have since spread widely, creating new problems for homeowners as an additional garden pest. If you’re struggling with these little invaders, food grade diatomaceous earth might be the eco-friendly solution you’re looking for to get rid of a ladybugs, errr, we mean asian lady beetle.
What Are Asian Lady Beetles?
The Asian lady beetle or ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis) is a species native to Asia but introduced to North America and Europe as a natural pest control agent. However, Asian lady beetles are much more aggressive than the familiar native ladybug. They can gather in large numbers, especially in fall, and look for warm places to hibernate indoors, such as attics, basements, and wall voids.
Unlike native ladybugs, Asian lady beetles can bite and emit a yellow, foul-smelling secretion, which can stain surfaces and aggravate allergies in some people. For those looking for a natural way to get rid of asian lady beetles, diatomaceous earth has become a popular choice.
What Is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, tiny aquatic organisms. This powder, composed mainly of silica, is effective in pest control due to its abrasive nature. When pests, like Asian lady beetles, come into contact with DE, it damages their exoskeletons, leading to dehydration and death. DE is widely regarded as a safe and environmentally friendly pest control solution when used correctly.
Benefits of Using Diatomaceous Earth For Asian Lady Beetles
Non-Toxic: DE is generally safe for humans and pets when used as directed, making it a great alternative to chemical insecticides.
Environmentally Friendly: DE is natural and biodegradable, so it won’t have a lasting impact on the ecosystem.
Multi-Purpose: Diatomaceous earth is effective against a wide range of pests beyond Asian lady beetles, such as ants, spiders, and bed bugs.
Long-Lasting: When applied indoors, DE can remain effective for weeks, provided it stays dry.
How To Use Diatomaceous Earth To Kill Asian Lady Beetles
Identify Infestation Points: Begin by identifying the areas where Asian lady beetles are entering or gathering. Common entry points include cracks around windows, window screen, doors, and vents.
Apply a Light Layer: Using a duster or powder applicator, spread a thin layer of DE around the entry points and in areas where you’ve seen the beetles congregate, like your door frames, side of house, window screen, or window frames. You can also apply it around the foundation of your home. You may also mix diatomaceous earth and water in a spray bottle and spray the concoction onto your foundation or siding of your home.
Reapply as Needed: Diatomaceous earth will lose its effectiveness if it gets wet, so check and reapply as necessary, especially after cleaning or rain exposure.
Vacuum up Dead Beetles: After DE does its job, you’ll likely find dead beetles near treated areas. Vacuum them up, and dispose of the bag or vacuum canister contents outside to prevent odors.
Important Safety Tips When Using Diatomaceous Earth
Wear a Mask: The fine powder can be irritating if inhaled, so wear a dust mask when applying it.
Use Food-Grade DE: Not all diatomaceous earth is created equal. Some DE is intended for industrial use and contains added chemicals that are unsafe for home use. Make sure to use food-grade DE for pest control. We have a diatomaceous earth that is rated by the EPA and is non toxic just like the food grade. Click below to check it out!
Keep It Dry: DE loses its effectiveness when wet, so keep it in dry areas or reapply after rainfall.
Combining Diatomaceous Earth With Other Prevention Techniques
Diatomaceous earth (DE) can be very effective on its own, but combining it with additional preventive techniques can significantly improve your results when managing Asian lady beetles. Let’s look at several strategies you can use in conjunction with DE to create a holistic, natural approach to pest control.
1. Seal Up Entry Points
Asian lady beetles typically enter homes through small cracks and openings in doors, windows, and walls, especially in the fall as they search for warm places to hibernate. Here’s how to minimize entry points:
Check Weather Stripping: Ensure weather stripping around doors and windows is in good condition. Replace it if you find gaps or worn areas.
Caulk Cracks and Gaps: Use silicone or latex caulk to seal any cracks in the exterior walls, around windows, and between sidings. Pay special attention to areas where pipes or cables enter the home.
Install Door Sweeps: Add door sweeps on all exterior doors to block beetles from crawling underneath. They’re inexpensive and effective at preventing a range of pests from entering.
2. Use Natural Repellents
Asian lady beetles dislike certain scents, making natural repellents an easy and non-toxic option to deter them from your home. Here are a few to try:
Citrus: Beetles are known to be sensitive to citrus smells. Try placing citrus peels, lemon-scented sprays, or essential oils like lemon or orange around entry points and windowsills.
Clove and Bay Leaves: Clove oil and bay leaves are also known repellents for Asian lady beetles. You can sprinkle ground cloves or place bay leaves near windows, doorways, and any other common entry points.
Garlic Spray: Another natural deterrent, garlic spray, can be applied around the foundation of your home. To make it, crush several cloves of garlic and mix with water, then strain and spray in desired areas. Keep in mind this may have a strong smell!
3. Install Screens and Barriers
Physical barriers like screens can be highly effective in preventing Asian lady beetles from getting inside, especially in homes with many windows and vents.
Window and Door Screens: Ensure that all windows and doors have tightly fitted screens without holes. If your current screens have small tears, repair them with screen patches or replace the screen altogether.
Attic and Vent Screens: Asian lady beetles often enter through attic vents or soffits. Install fine mesh screens over these vents to keep beetles and other pests out while still allowing for proper ventilation.
4. Use Light Traps Indoors
Asian lady beetles are attracted to light, so using traps that capitalize on this can help control them indoors.
Sticky Traps: Place sticky traps near windows or lights where you’ve noticed beetle activity. These traps can help reduce their numbers without chemicals.
LED Light Traps: There are traps specifically designed to attract and capture insects drawn to light. LED traps often use UV light, which can lure and trap lady beetles while you’re away.
5. Clean Up Outdoors to Deter Beetles
A tidy yard and fewer attractive hiding spots around the perimeter can reduce the number of beetles near your home.
Remove Leaf Litter: Clear away fallen leaves, dead plants, and other debris near the foundation. These piles can provide shelter for beetles and other pests.
Limit Moisture: Asian lady beetles, like many pests, are attracted to moist areas. Ensure proper drainage around your home and avoid overwatering plants near the foundation.
Trim Back Vegetation: Beetles tend to congregate on plants, especially if they’re overgrown or close to your house. Trim bushes, trees, and any other greenery close to your home to create a barrier.
6. Vacuum Up Beetles Promptly
Once you’ve applied DE and used other preventive measures, it’s essential to clean up any beetles that have already made it inside. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove lady beetles around windows, doors, and ceilings. Remember to dispose of the vacuum bag or canister contents outside to avoid any odors or staining from their secretions.
7. Use Indoor Humidity Control
Asian lady beetles thrive in humid environments, so keeping your home’s humidity level low can make it less appealing to them.
Use Dehumidifiers: Placing a dehumidifier in high-moisture areas like basements, attics, or bathrooms can create an environment less favorable for lady beetles.
Ventilate Properly: Make sure rooms prone to humidity, like bathrooms and kitchens, are well-ventilated. Use exhaust fans to reduce moisture buildup.
8. Regularly Reapply Diatomaceous Earth as Needed
While DE is long-lasting, it can lose effectiveness if it gets wet or swept away. Check periodically and reapply DE around entry points or foundation areas as needed, especially after rain or cleaning. This ensures it remains a strong line of defense.
Final Thoughts
Diatomaceous earth is a powerful, natural solution to tackle Asian lady beetles without resorting to chemicals. By applying DE in the right areas and taking a few extra preventive steps, you can enjoy a beetle-free home without risking exposure to harsh insecticides. If you’re dealing with a heavy infestation, though, consulting a pest control professional can be wise.
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