GreenPiece

More of those BUGS!

November 20, 2002

Q: Last year my house was inundated with ladybugs and brown sting bugs. But now, I have a new bug, black with red coloring, crawling all over my house! What are they and what can I do to get rid of them?

Miss Muffet, Oxford

A: Dear Miss Muffet: Box elder bugs are your latest houseguests. Like the others you mentioned, box elder bugs do not harm structures or humans, and are just as annoying. These true bugs feed on the seeds of the female box elder tree, in the maple family. They come inside in the fall seeking shelter, and tend to congregate around warm windows and walls.

There are some low-cost solutions for keeping these invaders out. First, they enter through cracks in the sides or between windows. Caulking around windows and in gaps in the siding will keep their numbers down.

Also, The bugs can be sprayed with a soap solution (outside preferable). Mix one-half cup of laundry detergent in a gallon of water and spray it on the insects. It has to be sprayed directly on the bug, so redo as necessary. You can spray the bugs on the house or in the box elder tree.

If you are still having trouble, you'll need to determine whether the box elder tree in your yard is worth your hassle of dealing with these bugs. This is really a last resort solution.

Just like everything else, they live in cycles, high numbers one year, and low numbers the next. This is a high number year- so be on the lookout!

Q: I recently purchased a large quantity of winter squash and would like to know how to store it. I don't want to refrigerate or freeze it, and I live in a fairly standard home with a finished basement. What do you recommend?

Pressed for Space in Norwich

A: Dear Pressed: Storage of vegetable is always a good way to save money while providing yourself with wholesome foods. Winter squash (all except acorn), should first be cured for 10 days in a hot dry area, 80-85 degrees. This can often be accomplished by placing near a furnace or other heat-emitting appliance. Then squash should be kept at 55-60 degrees, any less could damage them, and any more could make them stringy, in a dry location. You probably have an area in your basement that is unfinished or part of your attic that stays in that 55-60 degree spot. If you have a colder spot you can place the squash, consider adding some insulation. Winter squash can be kept for 2-3 months.

Acorn squash should not be cured, should be stored at 45-50 degrees, and can be kept 1-2 months.

Wherever you decide to store your crop, in the garage with insulation, in the attic, under the stairs, etc., remember to take measures to keep critters and odors out. My other suggestion is that winter squash tastes with real maple syrup drizzled over it.

If you have any questions you would like to be answered by GreenPiece, please contact Rebecca Hargrave at 99 N. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815, or call 607-334-5841.