stink bugs - Ask Extension
How can I get samauri wasps in my area?
Knowledgebase
stink bugs #925089
Asked February 26, 2026, 11:03 AM EST
How can I get samauri wasps in my area?
Josephine County Oregon
Expert Response
Trissolcus japonicus, more commonly known as Samurai wasps, are native to eastern Asia but have been found more globally now as brown marmorated stink bugs, BMSB, have also spread. In Oregon, efforts have been underway since 2016 to introduce these parasitoids as biological control agents for BMSB populations by agricultural experts. They have been released in many different locations including parts of Josephine County. I am attaching an article with more information about the study that has been done in Oregon about this. Samurai wasps (Trissolcus japonicus) are not currently available for purchase by the public, as their distribution is strictly controlled by agricultural experts to prevent unintended ecological effects.
https://www.actahort.org/members/showpdf?session=501370
https://www.actahort.org/members/showpdf?session=501370
I am in cave Junction and have noticed a steady increase of bmsb in my garden. What organic controls can I use? Have you released any samauri wasps near cave junction? Thanks for your time
Extension is not a part of the release of biological control Samurai wasps so I am not sure exact locations in Josephine Co. Here are some organic options.
Key Organic Control Methods
Key Organic Control Methods
- Physical Removal & Trapping: Use a shop vacuum to remove bugs, or create traps with light sources to attract them and soapy water to drown them.
- Exclusion: Seal cracks, gaps in siding, and utility entry points with caulk, and repair window screens.
- Organic Sprays: Effective options include kaolin clay (surround), insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and pyrethrins (e.g., PyGanic, Entrust).
- Trap Cropping: Plant sunflowers, sorghum, or millet to attract bugs away from garden crops, then destroy the bugs on the trap plants.
- Repellents: Essential oils like clove, lemongrass, and spearmint can act as temporary repellents.
