Elm seed bugs are a pest only a few homeowners know about, and for good reason. The species was introduced to the western United States sometime around 2012, and it has since been found in several states, including Utah. Elm seed bugs are occasional invaders since they are primarily nuisance pests that invade homes in response to changes in weather or the environment.
This article will help you understand the basics of elm seed bug control in Salt Lake City. We’ll start by discussing what elm seed bugs are and their general characteristics and habits. Next, we’ll discuss the possible problems these pests can cause if they get into your home. After that, we’ll go over some simple, practical steps you can follow to keep elm seed bugs away from your home.
Finally, we’ll look at the best way to control elm seed bugs. Our team at Pest Pro Pest Control offers cutting-edge solutions to any pest problem you might be facing.
Understanding Elm Seed Bugs: Behavior And Habits
First, you should understand what elm seed bugs are and how to identify them. Elm seed bugs are originally native to Europe and are somewhat similar to boxelder bugs. As their name indicates, they feed primarily on elm seeds and leaves but have also been on linden and oak trees. When fully grown, elm seed bugs are about 1/3 inch long. They are mahogany and black, with an inverted black triangle between two reddish triangles on their wings. They have a red underside and a pattern of white, red, and black dots along the sides of their wings.
Elm seed bugs tend to start looking for structures to spend the winter in during the fall. They will stay in or near the structure until spring, when they return to their host trees. The elm seed bug lifecycle has seven stages in total – an egg stage, five nymphal stages, and an adult stage. The egg stage usually begins around the time elm flowers bloom. Eggs can hatch anytime between May and July. The nymphs then molt five times before they become adults. The first new elm seed bug adults usually emerge in mid-May or early June in the Salt Lake City area. These adults will live through the summer and fall into the following spring to begin the cycle again.
Now that you know more about these pests, let’s discuss the potential issues an elm seed bug infestation can cause.
The Elm Seed Bug Invasion: Understanding The Problem
Like boxelder bugs, elm seed bugs aren’t a threat to humans. They don’t bite or sting, they don’t carry diseases, and they don’t contaminate or infest food. The main concern these pests bring is the nuisance of having large numbers in your home at once.
Elm seed bugs can also emit a strong odor from their scent glands, similar to bitter almonds. They also give off this smell when crushed. Elm seed bugs may leave behind fecal spots or crawl on people, but that’s the extent of the harm they can cause.
In the next section, we’ll talk about how to deter elm seed bugs from entering your home in the first place.
Elm Seed Bug Prevention: Steps To Keep Them Out
Elm seed bugs often become a problem for homeowners during the fall and winter when they begin looking for a place to spend the winter. Here are a few tips for elm seed bug control around your home:
- Seal any cracks or gaps in the exterior of your house.
- Make sure to screen windows and doors properly.
- Apply residual insecticide treatments around your home’s foundation and common entry points.
- Spray any affected plants with neem oil.
These simple tips will help you keep elm seed bugs away from your home and prevent them from becoming an issue during the colder months of the year. If you need help getting rid of elm seed bugs in Salt Lake City, don’t hesitate to contact a professional pest control company.
Professional Assistance: Contact Us For Total Elm Seed Bug Control
For years, Pest Pro Pest Control has been helping homeowners like you get rid of all manner of pests. We’re a family-owned business that prioritizes customer service. We have more than 800 five-star reviews from satisfied customers, and we offer flexible pest control plans that are efficient and effective.
For professional elm seed bug removal in Salt Lake City, contact Pest Pro Pest Control today.