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California Gardening

GAH! Box Elder Bugs driving me crazy

18 years ago

I don't know why they are in my yard.

I used to have a Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) in my side yard. I cut it down this spring because it was destroying a fence. In that corner of the yard, I've had a massive Box Elder bug infestation for several years.

They seem to like the area right around my Sage.

Anyone know why they are hanging around? I haven't been able to find anything about them liking Ailanthus and I never saw them in the tree, just on the ground around it.

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Comments (3)

jean001
18 years ago
They may annoy you. But they're not bothering any plants you have. They're probably just hanging out until the weather warms consistently.
youreit
18 years ago
More info on Boxelder bugs in the link below.

Brenda

Here is a link that might be useful: Boxelder Bug Management Guidelines
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debbysunshine
18 years ago
I've seen this bug too but all the sites say they are not harmful to plants. I'm in San Diego too and There aren't many of us on this site. So far I haven't seen any racoon or rabbits but something is sure taking it's toll on my roses. This is the first year I haven't used organics including fish emulsion, egg shells, kitchen scraps ect. hoping not to attract the whatevers as in the past and atleast the cats next door are staying out of the garden.

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