Longer days and increases in temperature are catalysts for explosions in the insect population. If your home or garden are being i...
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Summer is here, and we can't wait to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, we're not the only ones. Because when nature springs back to life, so do cockroaches, grubs, and a myriad of ants.
If you're like most homeowners, you don't want to share your house and yard with damaging insects, but you may also worry about using pest control products around your house.
A recent survey of homeowners, commissioned by the Professional Pest Management Alliance, reflects these concerns. According to the survey, "green service" is the second-most important consideration – after pest elimination – when choosing a pest control provider. Forty-four percent of respondents defined the term "green" as meaning "not harmful to humans or pets."
Homeowners today want the best of both worlds – fast and long-lasting pest elimination as well as more comfort in their use around the house. Thankfully, there are now options that allow you to control pests in ways that are both effective and gentle on the environment.
Call a local lawn-care or pest control company and have them do the hard work. They'll assess the pest, conduct thorough inspections and apply the necessary pest control products. By understanding insects and how to treat them, professionals can actually minimise pesticide usage.
These pros can share their knowledge of environmentally-friendly products and techniques, saving you time, money and damage to your home and lawn over the long term.
It's reassuring to know that DEFRA registers all professional pesticides to the same high regulatory standard, and also encourages the development of "reduced-risk" pesticides that meet a set of criteria that may include a lower mammalian toxicity profile, reduced toxicity to birds, fish and plants, and/or a lower potential for groundwater contamination (among other criteria).
Professionals also have access to products that, due to their low toxicity, do not require first aid language on their label. This means that no first aid intervention is required if a person or pet accidentally has skin exposure or ingests the pesticide.
It's also a good idea to make sure any individual handling pesticides has the Required Pesticide Applicator License. Ask for referrals from customers that live in your area. And if a guarantee is given, know what it covers, how long it lasts, and what kind of continuing control, prevention and management are necessary.
You have successfully rid your home and lawn of these pests. Now what? There are a number of ways to prevent future infestations. Outside, caulk cracks and crevices in the foundation where pests may be getting in. Make sure lids are sealed on rubbish bins and that the area is clean from spills.
Clear any unnecessary boxes sitting around, as they are a big breeding ground for cockroaches. And be sure to get rid of sources that may be collecting water, such as containers or tires. Standing water is a favourite breeding ground for many insects, and in hot weather, will attract insects looking for a drink.
And don't forget about the inside of your home: Seal crevices in your food storage areas and store sweets, including sugar, cereals and syrup, in sealed containers. Also, since many insects are looking for moisture, fix leaky pipes and don't overwater indoor plants.
By implementing these preventative measures, and using the services of a professional who specialises in environmentally-friendly pest control, you will create a pest-free environment for outdoor entertaining and family fun.
Article provided by SDA Pest Control