In late spring and fall the insects known as love bugs begin emerging in the gulf coast states, and they are pesky little winged insects that are extremely annoying. They swarm over roadways and end up littering windshields and headlights, and they inadvertently find their way into homes. While visiting my aunt in Florida late last spring, these winged pests were everywhere, and we began searching for ways to get rid of them. I had never before heard of love bugs, but by the time I left Florida I knew exactly what they were and how to get rid of them in and around the home. Thankfully, love bugs are not a problem in Indiana, but each year my aunt has to try and get rid of these pesky insects that are more irritating than anything.
Get Rid of the Bugs With a Soap and Water Solution
Love bugs drive people buggy since they swarm in great numbers, and they are a tremendous problem for many. Picnics, sporting events, and simple walks outside become a big ordeal, and the insects with the sweet sounding name are to blame. People do not love these pesky insects. In fact, most would do just about anything to get rid of them!
My aunt keeps a spray bottle filled with soapy water on the front porch and the back deck, and it works very well to get rid of love bugs. Mix about one ounce of dishwashing liquid with eleven ounces of water, and mist the soapy water around the yard, porch, bushes, and in other locations where these insects are a problem. In time you will see their dead bodies scattered across the ground. This method will not get rid of all of the love bugs, but it will get rid of many of them.
Avoid Wearing White or Other Light Colors
If you feel like a love bug magnet, get rid of love bugs that swarm around your head by avoiding white or other light colored clothing. When visiting my aunt in Florida I was swarmed by the pesky little insects whenever I wore my white AC t-shirt. Wearing darker colors will not completely get rid of love bugs, but you will not be as attractive to the winged pests.
Get Rid of the Bugs With Large Citronella Candles
Some people claim that nothing will get rid of love bugs, but my aunt and I purchased four large citronella candles in stylish containers, and they worked very well to get rid of the swarms near her deck. We placed a candle at each corner of the deck. After lighting the candles the love bugs were greatly reduced in number, and we were able to sit outside without being swarmed.
If you know of other ways to get rid of love bugs, post your suggestions in the comment section. Going outside when love bugs are out is nearly impossible for those living in areas known for these pesky winged creatures. Love bugs are one of the most loathed insects in the spring and fall, and they will drive even the most patient person absolutely buggy!
