What is a key method in treating boxelder bugs in an infested area?

A key method in treating boxelder bugs in an infested area is through crack and crevice treatment. This approach focuses on applying insecticides directly into the cracks and crevices where boxelder bugs typically hide. These areas often include the gaps around windows, doors, and other entry points of buildings, which serve as the primary entryways for these pests during the fall as they seek winter shelter. By targeting these specific locations, the treatment is more effective in eliminating the bugs and preventing their entry, which is essential for managing an infestation.

Other methods, while they can be part of an integrated pest management plan, may not be as effective on their own. Spraying insecticide indoors may not reach the hidden spots where boxelder bugs congregate if application is not thorough. The introduction of natural predators is a long-term solution that can take time to establish and may not address immediate infestations. Similarly, setting traps can help capture some of the bugs but may not significantly reduce the overall population in a timely manner. Therefore, crack and crevice treatment remains a fundamental practice specifically tailored to manage boxelder bug infestations effectively.