The red and black bugs have been forming swarms across the UK in recent weeks, but there’s a simple way to keep them out of your home – and it involves fruit peel
Hordes of ladybirds are infiltrating properties throughout the UK and specialists are now advising residents to place the rind of a particular fruit to repel them. Whilst ladybirds pose no threat to your property, you’ll still prefer them outside in your garden, feasting on nuisances such as aphids and greenfly, rather than becoming trapped on your window ledges or roaming across your kitchen surfaces.
The milder conditions are thought to be responsible for the surge in ladybird populations this year, as the glossy scarlet creatures have thrived during the bright spell that followed a damp winter. Should you continue discovering ladybirds finding their way indoors and depositing small spots of pollen on sills and walls, there exists a natural repellent that maintains their distance – lemon rind.
Ladybirds detest the scent of citrus produce, and orange peel may also prove effective, although lemon provides a more potent aroma.
Chris Hutton, proprietor of Adams Selfstore, explained: “The rise in aphids caused by this year’s warm spell has led to a sharp increase in ladybirds. They follow their food into our homes and storage spaces, especially as nights get cooler.
“But there’s a simple, natural way to keep ladybirds at bay, and most people will already have one or two sitting in their homes, citrus fruits.”, reports the Express. “Ladybirds hate the strong smell of citrus and a great source of this smell is their peels.
“Placing fresh peels near windows and doors will deter ladybirds from entering and avoid any food waste or the use of harmful chemicals. Using citrus peel is a safe, effective, and eco-friendly way to stop ladybirds invading your home or storage unit. It’s a simple fix anyone can try.”
To ensure the effectiveness of this method, it’s recommended to regularly replace the peels and seal any gaps around doors and windows to deter them. However, ladybirds are beneficial for your garden as they consume pests.
Nick Wood, a horticulture expert from online garden centre Gardening Express, stated: “Ladybirds are one of the best natural pest control methods we have in the UK.
“Inviting them to your garden will help reduce the need for chemical sprays, protect your plants and support local wildlife at the same time.
“Creating a bug-friendly garden doesn’t mean letting it go wild – small changes like planting the right flowers or leaving a log pile can make a big difference.”.”
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