Question: I have kudzu bugs invading my house at the back door and some of the windows. Is there anything I can spray to control them and keep them outside?

- Ron P., Athens

Answer: Kudzu bugs (Megacopta cribraria) are very frustrating pests both indoors and outdoors. When kudzu bugs are found outdoors, they often are on leguminous plants (soybeans, green beans, wisteria, kudzu, etc.) or on sunny south or east exposures of homes and buildings in the fall season.

These insects prefer light-colored surfaces, so house siding and stucco are often common aggregation points.

The kudzu bugs are entering your house because they are seeking shelter from the dropping temperatures. The best way to prevent these insects from entering your home is to seal holes, gaps, windows, doors, vents and any other possible opening to the best of your ability.

For example, your window screens should not have any holes, and should have a tight fit in the window frame. If you have areas with openings that cannot be screened, steel wool can be stuffed into these gaps to prevent kudzu bugs and other insects from entering your house.

If the kudzu bugs are entering through a door, make sure that a screen door is in place if the house door is open. If the house door is closed but there are visible gaps between the door and the door jam, or if drafts can be felt, door sweeps and weather stripping should be used to prevent insect entry.

An exterior wall application of insecticide spray (microencapsulated and wettable powder products) may help you gain an upper hand in controlling kudzu bugs. When using insecticide-based products, always read and follow the directions for use on the product label. Insecticidal control of kudzu bugs indoors is discouraged.

If the insects do enter the house or building, make sure not to crush them. There often is a foul smell associated with crushing of the insects, and they can stain surfaces. It is recommended to vacuum the insects and then dispose of them by placing them in hot, soapy water to kill them.

For more information on kudzu bug control, please see the following publication from the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Cooperative Extension: bit.ly/roxxYB.

• Send your agricultural or natural resources questions to Amanda Tedrow, Athens-Clarke County Extension agent, at atedrow@uga.edu, or call (706) 613-3640.