Asian lady beetles, also known as harlequin ladybugs, can become a nuisance in your home or garden. These colorful bugs may seem harmless at first, but their presence can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several natural methods to keep them at bay. Below are 15 effective ways to get rid of Asian lady beetles naturally.
Why Asian Lady Beetles Are a Problem
Asian lady beetles, though initially introduced as a natural pest control agent, have become a nuisance in many households and gardens. These beetles can invade homes in large numbers during the colder months, seeking warmth and shelter. While they are harmless to humans, they emit an unpleasant odor and can leave stains on walls, fabrics, and furniture.
Additionally, their tendency to cluster in large groups can cause significant discomfort to homeowners. In gardens, these beetles can sometimes outcompete native ladybug species, disrupting local ecosystems. Their ability to adapt and thrive in various environments, combined with their aggressive behavior when disturbed, makes Asian lady beetles a persistent and troublesome pest.
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Asian Lady Beetles
Vacuuming
The quickest way to remove Asian lady beetles is by vacuuming them up. Simply use a handheld vacuum to suck up the beetles, but keep in mind that this method may require multiple attempts if you have a large infestation.
Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are a natural deterrent for Asian lady beetles. Their strong scent repels these insects, making them an excellent option for keeping beetles away. Place bay leaves around windows, doors, and other entry points where you’ve noticed beetle activity.
Mums
Chrysanthemums (mums) are another natural repellent that works against Asian lady beetles. These flowers emit a fragrance that beetles dislike, making them a great addition to your garden. Plant them near windows or entryways to discourage beetles from entering your home.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a safe and natural method to kill Asian lady beetles. It works by dehydrating the beetles when they crawl through it. Sprinkle DE around your home’s perimeter, or mix it with water to create a spray for use on beetles directly.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Prevent beetles from entering your home by sealing cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and other entry points. This simple measure can help stop infestations before they start.
Light Traps
Light traps are an effective way to reduce beetle numbers indoors. You can purchase commercial traps or create your own by cutting a water bottle in half and fashioning a funnel. Place a light source inside to attract beetles, and they will become trapped inside the bottle.
Sticky Tapes
Sticky tapes can trap Asian lady beetles as they crawl along surfaces. Place the tape around areas like window sills and door frames, and simply dispose of the beetles once they are stuck.
Cloves
Cloves are a powerful insect repellent. Place whole cloves in a bowl and set them in areas where beetles are most active. Alternatively, you can make a spray by adding a few drops of clove oil to water and using it around your home.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as peppermint, citrus, wintergreen, and citronella are known to repel Asian lady beetles. Add 5-10 drops of essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water, and use it around your home to deter beetles from entering.
Natural Predators
Introducing natural predators into your garden can help control Asian lady beetles over time. Birds, frogs, and spined soldier bugs all feed on lady beetles, and their presence can reduce the beetle population naturally.
Vinegar
Vinegar can kill Asian lady beetles on contact. For a simple solution, pour white vinegar into a spray bottle and spray the beetles directly. Alternatively, mix one part vinegar with one part water and spray it on surfaces where beetles are present. The vinegar will also eliminate pheromones that attract more beetles.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective against Asian lady beetles. When the beetles come into contact with neem oil, it disrupts their natural processes and can lead to their demise. Apply neem oil directly to beetles or use it on plants that attract beetles.
BugZooka
The BugZooka is a tool designed to suck up insects without harming them. This device uses a vacuum-like tube to capture beetles. Once captured, you can safely release them outside, away from your home.
Citrus Peels
Citrus peels contain oils that Asian lady beetles find repellent. Place peels around windows and door frames to deter beetles from entering your home. You can also make a citrus spray by soaking the peels in water and then spraying it around affected areas.
Soap and Water Spray
A mixture of soap and water is an effective way to deal with Asian lady beetles. Fill a spray bottle with water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Spray the solution directly onto the beetles to suffocate and kill them. This method is safe for both indoor and outdoor use.
Tobacco Smoke
Asian lady beetles dislike the smell of tobacco smoke. If you have a smoker nearby or a smoker’s area, the scent can act as a natural repellent. Simply burn tobacco or use tobacco-infused water to spray around your home’s exterior or areas with a beetle infestation.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood is another natural repellent for many types of insects, including Asian lady beetles. You can use cedarwood blocks, chips, or essential oil around your home or garden to discourage beetles from entering. The scent of cedarwood is particularly effective in repelling beetles from specific areas like attics or basements.
Garlic Spray
Garlic has strong insect-repelling properties. To create a garlic spray, blend several cloves of garlic with water and strain the mixture into a spray bottle. Spraying this around windowsills, doorways, or areas where beetles are active can help deter them.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another effective, natural repellent for insects. Place whole cinnamon sticks around affected areas, or mix cinnamon powder with water to create a spray. The strong scent will help deter beetles from entering your home or garden.
Lemon Peel Oil
Lemon peel oil, or the natural oil extracted from lemon peels, is known for its insect-repelling properties. You can use it similarly to other essential oils by adding a few drops to water and spraying the mixture on surfaces where Asian lady beetles are frequent.
Herbal Sachets
Create sachets using dried herbs such as lavender, eucalyptus, and mint, which are all known to repel insects, including lady beetles. Place these sachets near entry points like windows, doors, or in areas where beetles have been spotted.
Cucumber Slices
Asian lady beetles dislike the scent of cucumbers. Placing cucumber slices or cucumber peels around areas where beetles are present can help repel them. You can also place them near cracks or crevices in windowsills or door frames to discourage them from entering.
Best Plants for Repelling Asian Lady Beetles
Certain plants are known for their natural ability to repel Asian lady beetles, making them an excellent addition to your garden or around your home’s entry points. Chrysanthemums (Mums) are one of the most effective plants, as their scent is disliked by lady beetles. These colorful flowers can be planted near windows, doors, or any other areas where you frequently see beetles.
Garlic and onions also work well, with their strong odor acting as a natural deterrent. Planting these around your garden or home’s exterior can help keep beetles away. Additionally, bay leaves can be placed around windows and doorways to keep beetles at bay, as they emit a scent that is unpleasant for these insects.
Lavender and eucalyptus are fragrant herbs that not only add beauty to your garden but also help repel insects, including Asian lady beetles. Their soothing aromas are unappealing to the beetles and can be used as a natural barrier around your home.
Lastly, marigolds are another great option, as their scent can confuse and repel pests. These bright flowers are not only effective but also provide vibrant color to your garden. By strategically planting these herbs and flowers around your home, you can create a natural barrier to keep Asian lady beetles away.
Conclusion
By using these natural methods, you can effectively reduce or eliminate the presence of Asian lady beetles in your home and garden without relying on harsh chemicals. Regularly inspecting your home and garden, along with implementing these strategies, will help keep these pests at bay throughout the year.
