Boxelder bugs infestation - Ask Extension
Hi, I live in new hope and my newly created mulched area which houses 3 metal raised beds are infested with the boxelder nymphs. I have heard they are...
Knowledgebase
Boxelder bugs infestation #799969
Asked July 07, 2022, 7:44 PM EDT
Hi, I live in new hope and my newly created mulched area which houses 3 metal raised beds are infested with the boxelder nymphs. I have heard they are bad this year. Last year I didn't see them but also didn't have the mulch area. Is it possible that mulch can attract them in large quantities? They are also leaving red residue on all my vegetables plants. Is it dangerous? I know they are harmless but they make it hard to enjoy my garden.
Thanks!
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
They may be attracted to the three metal raised beds because they are sunny, heat-reflecting surfaces with southern or western exposure.Wash bugs off walls or tree trunks with a forceful stream of water. You could try putting a pail of soapy water under the plants and knocking them off the pail. Wash the vegetables well to remove the red residue before you eat them.
