From

Location

Message

Date Posted

China Township, Michigan

Do Box Elder bugs do damage to pumpking patch?

11/20/2009 10:27:15 AM

Ctpumpkin@optonline.net

Are there any Box Elder bushes nearby?

11/20/2009 1:26:53 PM

Anamosa, IA BPIowegian@aol.com

I have never had trouble with box elder bugs in the pumpkin patch, and at times I have millions around my house. I have box elder trees, but they are steadily being used to provide supplemental winter heat.

11/20/2009 4:49:20 PM

North Smithfield, RI

Box elder beetles are also attracted to maples. They will not harm your garden. Most people consider them a nuisance since they swarm on the side of the house in the fall. This yr for some reason there were none here.

11/20/2009 6:23:50 PM

Anamosa, IA BPIowegian@aol.com

Box elder bugs are very sensitive to fungal diseases. So in wet weather they usually aren't a problem. In dry years they flourish. They are also attracted to anything painted white. They are easy to kill with hot soapy water.

11/20/2009 9:58:54 PM

Anamosa, IA BPIowegian@aol.com

Box elder trees are a species of maple, which is why maple trees attract the bugs. My boss even makes maple syrup from box elder sap.

11/20/2009 10:01:26 PM