Though there is still a lot of gardening season left, we tend to see some common pest issues arise as the fall season approaches. Yellowjackets are out and about in large numbers this time of year, looking for food and water. Lady beetles and boxelder bugs become household decorations as the weather cools. An increase in mouse & squirrel activity is also another sign that fall is approaching. What can we do?
Wasps, yellowjackets and hornets are often mistakenly referred to as “bees” by many, but this is incorrect. Though bees (honey, bumble and others) share the same color patterns, they are much more well-mannered and keep to themselves. Bees prefer not to sting if possible and many native Minnesota bumblebees are solitary. Yellowjacket numbers peak towards the end of the summer and they can become aggressive while scavenging for food and water. Often yellowjackets will be found this time of year on ripening fruit or fallen fruit and around food or drinks outdoors. To avoid attracting yellowjackets to your space, pick ripening fruit before it turns mushy, remove fallen or rotten fruit from the ground and limit other activities that would attract them. There are no effective pesticides to repel them, traps can help, but often only catch a few at a time.
We are all probably familiar with lady beetles or boxelder bugs in our homes. These two insects are looking for warmer places to hunker down for winter hibernation. They can be a nuisance in large numbers and can smell or stain surfaces when crushed, keeping them outside can be tricky. Seal up any cracks or holes around windows and doors where they can slip in. Window A/C units are often an easy entry point for small insects. Consider using an insect repellent spray around these areas as a barrier. Additionally, these insects do not eat plants or structural materials, they do not sting either, though lady beetles have been known to pinch on occasion.
In addition to pesky insects, we may see an uptick in mice and squirrel activities. Just like insects, animals also feel the onset of fall and the priorities of preparing for winter. Mice may be looking for a safe and warm space in your shed, garage, camper, or home. They can fit into the tiniest of spaces, so physical barriers need to be airtight. Seal up any cracks or holes in foundations, siding or other spaces where mice may enter. Traps are effective at removing or reducing localized populations. In areas where mouse traps may not be an option, use mouse repellents like peppermint or cinnamon oil pouches or sprays. These are safe to use around pets and children as well as safe for other animals or birds that may eat dead mice. Be mindful when using poison; cats, birds and other animals may eat dead mice and ingest the poison.
Squirrels hiding nuts? This can be frustrating, and often destructive. Physical barriers are the best way to keep them out (fencing, closing holes and cracks). However, irritant or taste-based repellents can work, much like the products used for rabbits and deer. Consider emptying the dirt out of planters and storing them in a garage or shed at the end of the season to eliminate spaces for squirrels to hide their snacks.
For more information on pest control and other garden related issues visit extension.umn.edu.
For questions about this article or local assistance, please contact Clay County Extension Educator, Jill Patrie at 218-299-7338 or [email protected].