How to Repel Asian Beetles

The Asian lady beetle is a type of "ladybug" beetle that was imported from Japan, Russia and other Asian areas and released in the United States in an effort by the federal government to control insect pests like aphids. Unfortunately, as with most non-native creatures or plants, the beetles have few natural predators and have become a nuisance themselves, making their way in large numbers into houses and gardens. If you take a few preventative measures, though, you can successfully keep Asian lady beetles from your home and garden spaces.

Herbs (rosemary, mint, basil, catnip, chives)

Chrysanthemums

Silicone caulk (or silicone-latex caulk)

Insect screening

Garden netting

Cover susceptible plants with fine mesh garden netting. Most Asian lady beetles will "attack from the air," so netting can keep plants safe. If a few Asian beetles get into the garden, don't be alarmed. In smaller numbers they can be beneficial in ridding your garden of other pests.

Plant basil, mint, rosemary or chives in and around your garden to deter Asian beetles. The scent of herbs tends to confuse the beetles' sense of smell as well as mask the smell of the plants that might attract them.

Plant chrysanthemum, a common early autumn flower which has a strong scent that will repel Asian lady beetles. Conveniently, it blooms at the time when the beetles tend to congregate in the largest numbers.

Cover all outside exhaust vents and chimney openings with insect screening.

Seal cracks or gaps in the siding or trim of your house, as well as near doors and other openings, with silicone caulk to keep Asian lady beetles from getting inside.

Fix any tears in window screens. If the beetles can't find their way in, they will search for a new place to hide from the increasingly cold weather.

Start planning in the spring to repel Asian lady beetles. They don't tend to horde until the weather begins to cool in the fall, so by taking preventative measures early, you should be able to prevent an invasion later.