Repelling Stink Bugs Naturally

Determine Stinkbug Population

• Assess your stinkbug population and its location. Stinkbugs typically live in gardens where they feed on vegetables, fruit and plant juices during warm weather. Inspect gardens and your home's exterior surfaces during warm weather. Stinkbugs migrate indoors or hibernate outdoors when temperatures fall and daylight decreases. Stinkbugs are not native to North America and have no natural enemies to control their populations. Control stinkbugs using a non-toxic method suited to the size of and location of your stinkbug population.

Pheromone Traps

• Stinkbug traps contain a pheromone that attracts stinkbugs in droves. The pheromone is a natural material that poses no harm and does not attract other insects, wildlife or pets. These traps work in a manner similar to bee and wasp traps; the stinkbugs enter the trap and cannot escape. They dehydrate and die within the trap. Placing traps in areas where you have observed stinkbugs will draw in the stinkbugs nearby and attract more within 30 feet of the trap. Dispose of the traps when they are full of stinkbugs. Handle the traps carefully to avoid crushing any live stinkbugs and causing them to release their "stink."

Pyrethrin-based Insecticides

• Pyrethrins are natural insect repellents produced by chrysanthemum plants; they provide a safe alternative to petroleum and chemical based insecticides and are commonly used in commercial insecticides. Pyrethrins are safe to apply to food crops, flowers and landscaping. Pyrethrins may be applied to the outside of your home along the perimeters and in crevices in siding and window frames where stinkbugs are likely to hibernate. Pyrethrins are dual acting; they eradicate current populations of stinkbugs and also repel new populations. Use pyrethrin products strictly according to manufacturer's directions.

Diatomaceous Earth

• Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance derived from fossilized plants. It is a natural insecticide in its pure form. There is also a type of diatomaceous earth used for swimming pool filters, this is a chemically altered form that does not work as an insecticide. Diatomaceous earth resembles talc powder. Use a mask and safety goggles for your eyes when applying this product to avoid inhaling the fine powder or getting it in your eyes. Spread the powder in garden areas, on plants, and along the sides of your home where you've seen or suspect stinkbugs.The powder quickly kills stinkbugs by physically damaging them. It is safe to use on plants, in gardens, and indoors in areas where the powder won't be disturbed. Pure diatomaceous earth is non-toxic to humans and animals, and is used for eliminating parasites in livestock and pets.