Understanding the Factors That Draw Stink Bugs Indoors
Intro
Stink bugs are often the unwelcome guests at the proverbial feast of homeownership. As autumn rolls in and temperatures drop, these pests seem to have an uncanny ability to find their way into our cozy spaces. Many inhabitants may be left scratching their heads, wondering what exactly draws these critters into their homes. The reasons can be complex, but at their core, they boil down to a few fundamental behaviors and preferences. Understanding what attracts stink bugs is essential for effective prevention and management, allowing homeowners to maintain a comfortable and pest-free environment.
Key Factors at Play
There are several elements that serve as a beacon for stink bugs, prompting them to invade homes. Let's take a closer look at these factors:
- Warmth: As the temperature drops outside, stink bugs seek out places that offer warmth. Your home provides the perfect sanctuary from the cold.
- Light: They are also drawn to light, often seen clustering around windows and other sources at dusk.
- Food Sources: Homes near gardens or orchards can be particularly attractive due to the availability of food sources. Vegetables and fruit produce might call them closer.
- Shelter: Cracks and crevices in the house are an open invitation for these bugs, giving them a perfect spot to hide away during colder months.
It's worth noting that stink bugs can easily enter homes through tiny openings. Sealing cracks around doors, windows, and foundations is crucial for prevention.
Behavioral Patterns
Stink bugs, particularly the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, exhibit certain patterns that reveal their preferences. They thrive in agricultural settings and typically feed on fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals. Floating nearby a food supply during their yearly migrations only increases the chances of them venturing into residential areas.
Preferred Environments
The ideal conditions for stink bugs are not just one-dimensional. They're on the lookout for:
- Space Near Agriculture: Properties near farms or gardens attract these pests like bees to honey.
- Humidity: While a dry home is usually unappealing, a humid environment can attract them.
These inclinations make it even more important to actively manage your home’s conditions. By understanding these factors, you can take measures to protect your home from becoming a target.
Closure
In sum, the factors that attract stink bugs are multifaceted and tied to their basic needs for warmth, food, and shelter. With knowledge and preventive strategies at your disposal, the battle against these pests can be effectively managed, allowing for a comfortable and pest-free living environment.
Prolusion to Stink Bugs
Stink bugs often find their way into homes, sending many homeowners into a tizzy. Understanding what these pests are, and why they invade our space, is essential in addressing the issue head-on. The more informed you are about stink bugs, the better equipped you'll be to prevent them from taking over your living space.
Defining Stink Bugs
Stink bugs are a diverse group of insects belonging to the family Pentatomidae. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors but most notably possess a body shape resembling that of a shield. That’s why you might hear people refer to them as shield bugs. These critters have special glands that produce a foul-smelling liquid when they feel threatened, which is how they earned their infamous name.
Though there are hundreds of species globally, the brown marmorated stink bug is probably the most notorious seen in homes. This species has distinctive markings, with a mottled brownish body and white bands on its antennae and legs. As amusing as their design might appear, the reality is that they can quickly become an unwelcome presence.
Life Cycle and Habitat
Stink bugs are not just a one-season wonder; they have a whole lifecycle that greatly influences their habitat choices. These insects undergo a process called incomplete metamorphosis, meaning they transition through several stages: egg, nymph, and adult.
- Egg Stage: The female lays her eggs on the underside of leaves, typically in clusters of twenty or more. Each egg is small and spherical, often greenish in color to blend in with foliage.
- Nymph Stage: After about a week, the eggs hatch, and the nymphs emerge. They are smaller replicas of their adult counterparts but lack wings. During this stage, they undergo several molts, creating a vulnerability, which attracts predators.
- Adult Stage: By late summer, nymphs become adults, ready for mating and spreading out to find food and shelter.
Habitat: Stink bugs prefer warm climates with plenty of food sources, mainly feeding on plants. They are notorious for invading gardens and agricultural fields as they target fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. As temperatures drop in autumn, they seek refuge indoors, crawling into the tiniest nooks and crannies of our homes.
Understanding this lifecycle is crucial. It directly informs homeowners on the best times to implement preventive measures before these pests turn their cozy abode into a nuisance. With the right knowledge, one can anticipate their behavior and take steps to ensure they stay outdoors where they belong.
Common Characteristics of Stink Bugs
Understanding the common characteristics of stink bugs is crucial for homeowners. The more you know about these pests—their looks, behaviors, and preferences—the better equipped you'll be to prevent them from invading your living space. Recognizing these traits can help you identify a stink bug when you see one, and it also aids in developing effective strategies for keeping them at bay.
Physical Attributes
Stink bugs are easily recognized by their unique physical features. They tend to be flat and shield-shaped, which makes them somewhat resemble mini-tanks. Adult stink bugs can typically measure around half an inch to five-eighths of an inch long. Their most notable attribute is the combination of colors found on their bodies. Many are brown or green, often intertwined with hints of gray or black. Some species even sport colorful markings that make them stand out.
Apart from their shape and color, stink bugs also have a distinctively coarse body texture. This texture is not just for show; it plays a role in their camouflage against trees and plants, aiding them in evading predators. Their antennae, which are segmented, give them an enhanced sense of smell, allowing them to detect food and mates effectively. To put it plainly, these bugs have evolved over time to survive, making their physical traits not just pretty but practical as well.
Behavioral Traits
When it comes to the behavior of stink bugs, a few key points can provide insight into why they invade our homes. Firstly, stink bugs are primarily herbivorous, which means they thrive on a diet that consists mainly of plants. They prefer fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants—these are what they scout for actively. During the summer months, they’re out in gardens, feasting on crops, which is likely when you’ll first notice them.
One interesting behavioral trait is their tendency to gather in groups. It’s not uncommon to see them clustered together as they seek warmth and shelter during colder months. This social interaction can be a factor in how they decide to invade homes, as they often follow the scent trails left by other stink bugs.
Stink bugs are also known for their strong resistance to adverse conditions. They can survive a variety of weather, making them tough little critters. As the temperatures drop in autumn, they seek warm nooks and crannies to hunker down, potentially leading them right into your house.
"Recognizing stink bugs not only aids in prevention but also enhances your gardening strategies against these plant-affecting pests."
In summary, familiarity with the physical attributes and behavioral traits of stink bugs is invaluable for homeowners and plant enthusiasts alike. The more aware you are of their characteristics, the easier it’ll be to identify their presence and take action to keep them at bay.
Factors That Attract Stink Bugs
Understanding the reasons why stink bugs are drawn to your home is crucial for effective prevention and management. These insects don’t just wander in without a motive; they have specific preferences that lead them right into our living spaces. By dissecting these attraction factors, homeowners can gain valuable insights that can inform their strategies to keep these pests at bay. Knowing what attracts stink bugs enables you to create an environment that discourages their presence, making it less likely that they will invade your premises.
Temperature Preferences
Stink bugs are particularly fond of warm temperatures. They thrive in environments that mimic the conditions of their natural habitat, which are often found in sunny areas during the warmer months. When the weather gets colder, stink bugs look for solace, which often leads them into homes. A home that retains warmth becomes an inviting shelter for them.
To help reduce their attraction, it’s good to keep climate control in mind. For instance, setting your thermostat to lower temperatures during the fall can help deter stink bugs from seeking refuge inside. Closing blinds during the hottest parts of the day can also help keep indoor temperatures less appealing to these pests.
Humidity Levels
Humidity plays a significant role in attracting stink bugs. These insects are often attracted to moist environments, which can be found in kitchens or bathrooms if not properly ventilated. High humidity indicates a source of water, which is essential for their survival. As they seek out places with the right level of moisture, they may inadvertently find their way into our homes.
To combat this, be mindful of humidity levels. Installing dehumidifiers in spots known for moisture can play a vital role in making your home less hospitable for stink bugs. Regularly checking for leaks and ensuring good airflow also helps maintain a lower humidity level, thereby discouraging these critters.
Available Food Sources
Another strong attractant for stink bugs is food. These pests are essentially vegetarians, with a preference for fruits and vegetables. They have a particular liking for crops like tomatoes, peppers, and various types of fruit trees. In the garden, if stink bugs find abundant food sources, they are likely to migrate to nearby homes.
Homeowners should be vigilant about their gardens. Ensuring that ripe fruits and vegetables are harvested promptly and compost bins are kept away from the house can make a difference. Container gardens can be an excellent way to minimize easy access to vegetables and discourage stink bugs from approaching your home in the first place.
"By understanding the factors that attract stink bugs, you can significantly reduce their appeal and protect your space from invasion."
In summary, being aware of temperature preferences, humidity levels, and available food sources can empower homeowners to make informed decisions. By implementing practical measures, it’s possible to create an environment that is less inviting for stink bugs.
Seasonal Patterns of Stink Bug Activity
Understanding the seasonal patterns of stink bug activity is crucial for homeowners looking to protect their space from unwanted intruders. Stink bugs aren't just a nuisance; they can also become an infestation problem when the conditions are just right. It’s the cycle of seasons that significantly influences their presence in our homes. By familiarizing ourselves with their seasonal behavior, homeowners can take preventive measures, adjust their living spaces, and improve the likelihood of keeping these pests at bay.
Autumn Invasions
As the leaves begin to change and cooler temperatures set in, stink bugs start seeking shelter for the winter months. This is the time when their invasion into homes tends to peak. Stink bugs are driven by an instinct to find a warm place, often leading them to light-colored buildings or homes surrounded by plants. They often gather in clusters around windows and doors.
Important Factors During Autumn Include:
- Warmer Light: Light reflects from windows attracts stink bugs. They might initially be there to bask in the warmth before slipping indoors.
- Climate Change: As seasons shift due to climate change, their migratory patterns can change as well, resulting in more unexpected invasions.
- Ripening Crops: If your home is near farmland or gardens, the aroma of ripe fruits and plants can pull them in closer, making your home just another stop on their journey.
"As temperatures dip, stink bugs make their way indoors — a behavior that, without action, can lead to a home brimming with pungent pests."
Winter Hideaways
During winter, once stink bugs have infiltrated a home, they look for dark, secluded spots to hunker down until warmer weather returns. They often settle in attics, basements, and behind walls. This stage of their life cycle makes them less active, but it doesn’t mean they're entirely harmless. While they hide, their population can grow unnoticed, leading to a larger problem by the time spring arrives.
Key Considerations for Winter:
- Home Insulation: Inspecting insulation around doors and windows can reduce entry points, helping to keep them out.
- Heating Systems: Maintaining a consistent temperature prevents large scale snoozing — think of it as keeping the party away from your living room!
- Regular Checks: Homeowners should occasionally check in under sinks and in storage rooms where warmth may attract these quiet invaders.
Spring Emergence
As spring rolls around, the stink bugs emerge from their hiding places, ready to mate and start the cycle anew. They're often stimulated by warmth and light, leading them to reappear in homes where they spent the winter. This is a critical time to be proactive. By now, homeowners should address the entry points they missed earlier and also remove any potential food sources.
Other Considerations for Spring:
- Pest Control Measures: This is an ideal time for pest control measures if infestations became a concern over the winter.
- Outdoor Maintenance: Care for exterior areas of the home, like gardens and plants, can discourage their presence right at the beginning of their activity.
- Awareness: Being alert to their presence as they resurface can aid in stopping re-entry by monitoring windows, doors, and vent sources closely.
In summary, stink bugs will follow a predictable rhythm with the seasons. To outsmart these unwelcome visitors, understanding their seasonal patterns equips homeowners with the knowledge they need to act effectively and efficiently, keeping their homes bug-free.
Structural Elements Attracting Stink Bugs
Understanding the structural elements that attract stink bugs to homes is crucial for homeowners wanting to keep these pests at bay. Stink bugs are not just drawn to the scent of your prized flowers or the warmth of your living spaces, but also to specific features in your home’s structure. By identifying these elements, homeowners can take proactive measures to safeguard their spaces from unexpected visits.
Entry Points in Homes
One of the primary gateways for stink bugs is the often-overlooked cracks and crevices in home exteriors.
- Windows and Doors: Old or poorly fitting windows and doors are like open invitations. Any gap, no matter how small, can serve as an entry point. It is vital to regularly assess the integrity of your window screens and door seals.
- Vents and Utility Openings: Stink bugs can sneak in through unsealed vents or openings for cables and pipes. Ensure these areas are snug and secure; using mesh screens can help.
- Foundations and Walls: Small cracks in the foundation can provide ample access for these pests. Consider sealing these gaps with caulk to block their entry effectively.
Taking the time to inspect and seal these common entry points can substantially reduce the likelihood of a stink bug invasion, saving you from a headache in the future.
Lighting and Its Impact
Stink bugs have a knack for seeking out light. Thus, outdoor lighting can be both a blessing and a curse.
- Types of Lighting: Sodium vapor lights may attract these bugs less than traditional incandescent bulbs. Switching to yellow or LED lights can be a simple yet effective adjustment.
- Placement: Position your lights strategically away from entrances. Utilizing light fixtures that shield or diffuse light can also lessen their attractiveness.
Avoid placing enticing lights near windows or doors. Creating a less inviting atmosphere around your home can help keep stink bugs at a distance.
The interplay of light and pest behavior should not be underestimated; thoughtful consideration can tip the scales in favor of your home’s defense.
Proximity to Gardens or Plants
Many homeowners take pride in their blooming gardens and lush plants, but these features can also lure stink bugs straight to your doorstep. It’s essential to understand how this proximity can influence infestations.
- Types of Plants: Certain plants, such as sunflowers and fruit trees, are particularly attractive to stink bugs. Knowing which plants draw them can aid in creating distance from your dwelling.
- Garden Management: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of stink bugs and manage their growth. Keeping fruits and flowers at a distance can also help; a well-maintained garden away from the home minimizes the chance of pest tracking indoors.
Being mindful of these factors related to your garden can create a buffer zone to dissuade stink bugs from turning your beloved plants into unwelcome pathways into the house.
By actively addressing entry points, reconsidering lighting choices, and maintaining some distance from gardens, homeowners can fortify their defenses against the potential invasiveness of stink bugs.
Preventive Measures for Homeowners
Taking a proactive stance against stink bugs isn’t just smart; it's essential for maintaining the comfort of your home. Once these pests invade, they can be a hassle to remove, and their peculiar odor and tendency to congregate can turn a cozy environment into a no-go zone. Therefore, understanding preventive measures should be a priority for every homeowner.
Why Bother?
Implementing preventive measures not only minimizes the likelihood of an infestation but also helps in maintaining the overall health of your living space. Recognizing the triggers that draw stink bugs can save time, energy, and money in the long run.
Sealing Entry Points
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep stink bugs outside is by sealing off their entry points. These pests are notorious for sneaking in through tiny cracks and crevices.
- Check windows and doors: Ensure that screens are intact, and frames are tight-fitting. A small gap can be an open invitation for pests.
- Inspect walls and foundations: Look for cracks that can be easily sealed with caulk or expanding foam. Even the tiniest fissures need attention.
- Utility entry points: Pipes, wires, and vents can also serve as gateways. Apply mesh or appropriate sealants to block these openings.
Keeping your home secure is like guarding the castle. Consider it a small investment of time that pays off by creating a safe barrier against invaders.
Adjusting Outdoor Lighting
Believe it or not, outdoor lighting can be a significant factor attracting stink bugs to your home. These insects are drawn to bright lights, which mimic the glow of natural environments. By making simple adjustments, you can discourage them from coming around.
- Switch to yellow bulbs: These incandescent bulbs produce less light that attracts insects. It’s an easy swap that can yield great results.
- Limit lighting near entry ways: Consider dimming or even shutting off lights that illuminate your home’s entrance at night.
- Use motion-sensitive lights: These not only conserve energy but can help in reducing continuous light exposure that can attract pests.
By illuminating wisely, you’re creating a less welcoming atmosphere for stink bugs and similar critters.
Garden Management Techniques
If you have a garden or landscaping around your home, being mindful of what you grow can help keep stink bugs at bay. These pests are agricultural nuisances, often drawn to specific plants.
- Avoid high-risk plants: Certain crops, like tomatoes or peppers, are known to attract stink bugs. If pests are an ongoing issue, consider what you plant.
- Promote natural predators: Planting flowers and herbs that attract beneficial insects can help develop a balanced ecosystem in your garden. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitoid wasps can help control pest populations naturally.
- Mulching strategically: While mulch can be beneficial, if you don’t manage it carefully, it might harbor pests. Keep mulch at a distance from home’s periphery.
Managing your garden effectively forms a symbiotic relationship with nature and sends stink bugs packing.
"A stitch in time saves nine."
Taking preventive measures today can save you the headache of dealing with a stink bug invasion tomorrow.
Effective Removal Strategies
Dealing with stink bugs can be a real headache for homeowners. Understanding effective removal strategies is crucial to tackle these nuisances head-on. This section will break down natural deterrents, chemical solutions, and the benefits of professional extermination services, giving you comprehensive tools to manage these unwanted guests in your home.
Natural Deterrents
Sometimes, the best solutions come from Mother Nature herself. Natural deterrents serve as a gentle and often effective way to keep stink bugs at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals.
One popular method involves using essential oils, such as peppermint or lavender. These scents are not just pleasant for us; they are far less enjoyable for stink bugs. You can mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where you’ve noticed stink bug activity.
Additionally, diatomaceous earth can be a game-changer. This fine powder, made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms, can puncture the exoskeletons of these pests when they crawl over it, effectively dehydrating them. Just sprinkle it in crevices, or around windows and doors, and let it do its work.
Some homeowners have also found success using a simple soap and water solution. Mixing water with a small amount of dish soap in a spray bottle can help you directly target stink bugs, as it coats them and suffocates them on contact.
Chemical Solutions
When natural methods fall short, chemical solutions can offer more rapid results. While there are many over-the-counter insecticides, it’s vital to approach this option with caution. Choose products specifically labeled for stink bugs to ensure effectiveness and safety.
Pyrethrin-based insecticides are among the most effective. Derived from chrysanthemum flowers, pyrethrins affect the nervous system of insects, leading to quick paralysis. Always follow the instructions on the label closely. It’s recommended to apply these treatments in the evening when stink bugs are more active.
Furthermore, systemic insecticides can be effective for outdoor plants, as they work their way through the plant's system, targeting any bugs that might feed off them. However, keep in mind that safety precautions are paramount. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask while applying these chemicals, and protect pets and children.
Professional Extermination Services
If stink bugs have turned your home into their permanent address, it may be time to consider calling in the experts. Professional exterminators have a wealth of knowledge and access to products that the average homeowner simply can't use effectively. Not only will they help identify the root of the problem, but they can also implement a multi-faceted approach to eradication.
Most importantly, professionals can assess the entire property and find hidden entry points or nesting sites that might otherwise go unnoticed. They often provide follow-up treatments and guidance on prevention, helping you avoid future infestations. Often, they can address not just stink bugs, but other pests that might have decided to join the party.
Professional services often pay for themselves in the long run, especially when dealing with persistent infestations.
Learning from Stink Bug Behavior
Understanding the behavior of stink bugs can provide valuable insights for homeowners aiming to deter these unwelcome intruders. By studying the habits and social structures of these insects, we can uncover the reasons behind their attraction to homes and develop effective strategies for keeping them at bay. This section emphasizes several key components that illuminate stink bugs' interactions and preferences.
Understanding Pheromones
Pheromones play a pivotal role in the lives of stink bugs. These chemical signals are like a cellular text message, distributed through the air to communicate specific information within their species. A female stink bug might release pheromones to signal her readiness to mate, while others might emit distress signals when threatened. By attracting males and coordinating group movements, pheromones help maintain cohesion within stink bug populations.
Learnings from pheromone interactions can guide prevention methods in your home. For instance, limiting the presence of odor attractants can reduce the chance of drawing these pests closer. If you already have a few stink bugs in your garden, their pheromones could signal to others that the area is a safe breeding ground.
"Managing the scents in and around your home may lessen the pull that pheromones have on stink bugs, reducing the likelihood of infestations."
Impact of Social Interactions
Stink bugs are not solitary creatures; they often engage in fascinating social behaviors. For instance, they tend to gather in groups, especially during seasonal changes when they are scouting for suitable locations to hibernate. This social activity can amplify their attraction to specific environments, which can include homes near gardens or areas with plentiful food sources.
Understanding these interactions is essential for homeowners. Observing stink bug groupings can signal potential invasions. When you spot a cluster of them around your houseplants or in your garden, be proactive. Here are some considerations:
- Monitor during the fall: As temperatures drop, stink bugs may seek warmth and shelter in residential structures.
- Identify hotspots: Eliminating their preferred gathering spots, such as sheltered areas near walls or window frames, can deter their presence.
- Exploit social behavior: Knowing that stink bugs often travel in groups can help you pinpoint areas to focus your prevention efforts.
Implications for Home Design
When it comes to keeping stink bugs at bay, the design and structure of your home play a pivotal role. Understanding the implications for home design in relation to these pesky invaders can help homeowners create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also inhospitable to unwanted guests. Various design features, materials, and landscaping choices directly influence the likelihood of a stink bug incursion.
By emphasizing pest-resistant design elements, you not only enhance the comfort of your living space but also minimize your maintenance efforts and pest control costs down the line. A well-thought-out approach to home design is essential as it serves as a first line of defense against these unwelcome pests.
Incorporating Pest-Resistant Features
Integrating pest-resistant features into your home design involves several practical considerations. This can range from construction materials to structural layout. Here's how:
- Sealing Cracks and Gaps: Pay attention to potential entry points. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal cracks around windows, doors, and other openings. This simple adjustment creates a formidable barrier against stink bugs trying to squeeze their way inside.
- Opt for Screens: Installing fine mesh screens on windows and vents can be an effective way to let in fresh air while keeping insects out. Stink bugs are relatively large, so they won't squeeze through inch or smaller openings.
- Material Choices: Opt for less porous materials for exterior walls. For example, hardwood or synthetic siding materials might deter bugs more than untreated wood, which may attract them.
Incorporating these designs not only shields your living space from stink bugs but improves overall energy efficiency too.
Selecting Appropriate Plants
Another crucial aspect of home design that impacts stink bug attraction is landscaping. While having a garden or greenery around your house can enhance beauty, some plant selections may prove to be a magnet for these pests.
- Choose Native Plants: Native plants tend to co-exist with local wildlife without attracting nuisances like stink bugs. Such plants are often more resilient and require less maintenance.
- Diversity is Key: A diverse plant palette can confuse and deter pests. Adding a mix of flowers, shrubs, and herbs ensures that any one plant species does not become overly attractive to stink bugs.
- Avoid Specific Varieties: Some plants like fruit trees might draw stink bugs due to the fruits they bear. If you are particularly prone to infestations, it might be wise to reconsider your garden's botanical choices.
In sum, by thoughtfully selecting plants that are less inviting to stink bugs, homeowners can significantly reduce the chances of a stink bug invasion, allowing them to enjoy a peaceful living environment without constant worry.
When designing your home with pests in mind, remember: A well-placed line of defense is worth more than an ounce of treatment.
Epilogue
In wrapping up our exploration of what entices stink bugs into our homes, it's vital to zone in on the essential elements revealed throughout this discussion. Understanding stink bugs is not just about knowing their habits or casual sightings; it’s about grasping why they invade spaces that we consider cozy and safe.
Recap of Key Findings
Stink bugs are primarily drawn to warmth and shelter, making our homes a prime target, especially during the colder months. Their life cycle plays a crucial role, as they seek refuge to breed and survive. Key takeaways include:
- Temperature Influences: As temperatures drop, stink bugs look for any opening that keeps them snug.
- Food Sources: Any nearby gardens or plants can be a real buffet. Even an overly ripe tomato on your kitchen counter can attract them.
- Structural Vulnerabilities: Small cracks, gaps in window frames, or inadequate seals around doors can be gateways.
This holistic understanding is vital for homeowners. Keeping these factors in mind helps make informed decisions to reduce the chance of an invasion.
Future Considerations
As we look toward the future, it becomes increasingly apparent that the threat of stink bugs isn't going away anytime soon. Therefore, homeowners need to stay proactive. Consider the following:
- Monitoring Weather Changes: Being aware of seasonal patterns can provide clues to when stink bugs are likely to invade.
- Improving Home Infrastructure: Investing in better sealing materials or structural changes can dramatically reduce entry points.
- Researching New Repellents: As the pest control industry evolves, keeping up with eco-friendly and effective solutions will benefit everyone.
To put it bluntly, by being a step ahead and implementing learned strategies, we can minimize the frustrations of these unwelcome guests. In summary, consider not just the today but plan for the next season to keep your home a stink bug-free zone.
