Stink bugs are pesky little insects known for emitting a foul odor when disturbed — which is why they’ve become an unwelcome presence in many gardens and homes. These shield-shaped insects are notorious for damaging a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Given the challenges stink bugs present, it’s no wonder people are on the lookout for simple, effective, and environmentally friendly methods to combat them. One such DIY solution to get rid of stink bugs in the home that has gained popularity is using a spray solution made with hot peppers that are rich in capsaicin. Naturally occurring in chili peppers, capsaicin can irritate the skin and burn tissue it comes into contact with, and it affects stinkbugs in the same way.
Known for their fiery heat, those red-hot chili peppers in your garden or kitchen can be a potent tool in your battle against stink bugs. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the fiery taste in hot peppers, can be harnessed to create a natural stink bug killer that’s safe for your plants and the environment. This is welcome information because, as the weather turns cooler in the fall, stink bugs begin to seek shelter indoors, making them a nuisance for homeowners. The odor they emit can be quite unpleasant, and their feeding habits can lead to unsightly damage to your garden produce.
How to use hot peppers to eliminate stink bugs
Naturally capsaicin-rich, hot peppers make for an excellent stink bug eliminator. Using only a few ingredients you have ready at home, you can create a homemade stink bug repellent with hot peppers as the base. All you need are some hot peppers (e.g., jalapeño, cayenne, serrano, or habanero), water, and dish soap. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils in the peppers. Now, chop up a handful of them. The spicier the pepper, the better.
Combine the pepper pieces with water in a blender or food processor. Blend until you have a thick, pulpy mixture. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solid particles. Add a few drops of dish soap to the pepper liquid and mix well. The soap will help the mixture adhere to the stink bugs. Pour the pepper and soap mixture into a spray bottle and apply it directly to those areas where stink bugs congregate or on the plants you want to protect. An added bonus to this, you can also use this hot pepper spray to deter cabbage worms and spider mites. However, ensure you label the spray bottle clearly, so you don’t confuse it with other garden products. Avoid spraying the mixture near your face, as it can cause irritation. With this hot pepper spray and some patience, you’ll soon have a garden free of stink bugs.
