One of the newest pests in the Southwest area of the United States, these nefarious tree eaters are spreading like wildfire all across the Vernal, UT area.
Elm Seed Bugs are pests related to boxelder bugs and stink bugs and they give off a nasty odor when threatened, crushed, or killed. These pests are specifically attracted to the seeds of the Siberian elm tree and can consume many times their body weight in pursuit of the perfect meal. Their love of seeds will lead elm seed bugs to congregate in large numbers and swarm around homes and commercial properties in search of their favorite tree. It should be noted that these elm seed bugs are incapable of damaging any trees, and do not pose any danger to people or pets. However, any infestation can be disturbing on some level, especially when these bugs engage in swarming behavior inside or near the home.
What Are They Looking For?
Elm seed bugs are native to eastern Europe, meaning that they are used to and cannot die in the cold winters. If given the opportunity, these insects would prefer to live in locations that are generally warm, dry, and out of the way of direct sunlight. However, they do not require warm temperatures to survive. The inside of your home may be one of their preferred options, especially at the beginning and the end of the growing season.
You will likely notice elm seed bug nymphs or larva crawling across the ground in the spring and summer, hunting for seeds leftover from winter. These nymphs will quickly reach adulthood beginning in the late summer and begin the process of infestation over again.
Elm seed bugs are generally considered to be nuisance pests by entomologists and statewide extension offices. However, these creatures have been known to create property damage, as well as establish large infestations that are difficult to manage. The process of eliminating elm seed bugs from your home may be a twice-yearly job that is impossible without some properly used prevention steps.
Preventing Elm Seed Bug Infestations In Vernal, UT Residences
The best way to keep elm seed bugs away from your home and property is to prevent them from stopping by in the first place. Managing certain attractant factors present in the lawn and garden will be the first line of defense against scouting insects. Use the following prevention steps to mitigate elm seed bug activity all season long:
Store all firewood a minimum of 25 feet away from the sides of the home. Make sure that you check the actual logs before bringing them inside the house. It is not uncommon to hear of elm seed bugs hitching rides to the inside of residential homes on firewood or other kindling.
Do what you can to rake up and destroy any elm seeds that may be present in the yard. If possible, avoid planting any elm trees in a lawn you already own.
Manage any detritus around the front and sides of the house, raking up leaves, weeds, and any stray mulching that could be giving insects a place to hide.
If you are still concerned about elm seed bug activity around your home, contact the professional team at J&M Pest Control for a free home inspection.
Total Elm Seed Bug Control Begins With J&M Pest Control
Migrating pests such as the elm seed bug are becoming more and more common around western America. Protect yourself and your property from invading pest species by investing with the caring team at J&M Pest Control. We are locally owned and operated providing safe and effective treatments. Call, click, or visit with us at J&M Pest Control to get started today!