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As temperatures drop, fall pests such as Asian lady beetles, squash bugs, box elder bugs, and elm leaf beetles often move indoors or seek shelter in yards to overwinter. K-State entomologist, Raymond Cloyd, said while these insects are generally more of a nuisance than a threat, a few simple steps can help prevent them from settling in.

Sealing cracks and crevices on the foundation, particularly on the south side, is an effective first step. “The first thing you should do is caulk any cracks and crevices on the south side of the foundation,” Cloyd said. “You can spray a pyrethroid insecticide on the foundation to repel them, or once they’re in you can vacuum them up and put them back outside. I wouldn’t recommend using insecticides inside your home.”  

Cleaning the yard is also important. Removing plant debris, large leaves, and mulch reduces places where insects can shelter over winter. “Sanitation is always the first line of defense in terms of plant protection,” Cloyd said. Shredding leaves or using them in compost can further limit hiding spots.

Many insects that enter homes will die from indoor heat, but it is important to vacuum dead insects promptly, as they can trigger asthma. Fall is also a good time to review pest problems from the past year and plan strategies for reducing them next year.

“This is always a time of year to ask, ‘why did I have a pest, and what can I do next year to prevent it?’” he said. “You can’t get rid of them completely, but by sanitizing you can lessen the nuisance.”