Home Improvement » Home Pest Control Tips

Use cyfluthrin in sprayers on centipedes

Editor — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:15:05 +0000

Centipede invasions have long been a problem for many homeowners. Although these invasions seem more likely to occur in the spring and after heavy rains, they have been reported in every month of the year. Centipedes have been known to create mess if in many number and leave lasting smell for next few weeks after they die. They are slow to develop and like moist areas to live. They also eat other insects. Infact they have a poisonous bite. Centipedes are one of the few predators which feed on spiders and like moving at night.

Controlling the pests

Controlling them requires a few steps to be taken. The first thing is identification of nest sights. This will allow you in minimizing pests, which will lead to less getting inside. Look around where they are invading, inspecting all the places of the house. Any corner of the house can feed them with food, shelter and breeding. If they are where they come from is known, it will be easy to remove the excessive organic matter available for them. Maintain cleanliness of the house and it will surely help you keep away pests. Controlling pests and keeping them away and not invaliding your house with various diseases is very easy. Take proper preventative measures and it will surely help you in keeping them away.

Using Cyfluthrin

Centipedes are not insects but pests. Although many insecticides have them on their labels, most of them don't work well for controlling a migration. If you want to stop them quickly and keep them from getting into your home, use a product called cyfluthrin. Although this pesticide has been available for some more time, it hasn't lost any of its ability to work great on centipedes. It works well because the liquid form is a micro encapsulate. This means it is essentially a bunch of small capsules which will open over time. Because they are too big and are not able to provide longer protection than the normal liquid concentrates. Wettable powder form of cyfluthrin also is really effective. Spray around the house using cyfluthrin in sprayers will also prove effective.

Use heat traps for bedbugs

Editor — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 22:00:03 +0000

Human bedbug is an ancient pest. Experts believe bedbugs fed on the blood of pre-historic humans when they used to live in caves. When people moved from caves into tents, huts and houses, bedbugs moved along with them. Dealing with bedbugs was a challenge before modern pesticides were developed in the world. The bedbug's habit of living in cracks and crevices made them hard to control. Older treatments were probably either not very effective or they were dangerous too. One dangerous old-time remedy was to treat infested mattresses with gasoline and preventative treatment involved placing a can of kerosene under each bed leg, presumably to keep the bedbugs from crawling up the bed.

Habits of bed bugs

Bedbugs feed on blood as their only source of nutrition for them. Feeding occurs once during each of the five immature stages to grow and molt to the next stage. The adult female feeds periodically on blood to produce eggs and they bite often on the upper body like neck, arm and shoulder. Most people do not feel the bite, which is painless but bites may produce welts and local inflammation and itch afterwards too.

Prevention

Bedbugs do not just appear spontaneously in a home or apartment. People inadvertently move bedbugs from place to place through cloth or body. Bedbugs in hotels or motels sometimes crawl into luggage and return home with travelers too. Another way is to bring them home with infested furniture as well. Brought inside apartments or hotel rooms, bedbugs may travel to other rooms as their numbers increase very quickly. Examine all the items in infested rooms for bedbugs. Look for black or brown fecal spots to pinpoint hiding places in home. Kill bedbugs by dropping them in hot, soapy water and flushing. Remember that immature bedbugs are very tiny so be more careful about them. Do not forget to check under mattress buttons and between the mattress and box springs. Launder bedding and dry in a hot dryer to kill all stages of bedbugs at home. Use a steamer on mattresses to kill eggs that might have been overlooked, as they are too tiny to locate. Steaming is effective and safer than spraying mattresses with insecticides. Steam cleaning carpets is also a good idea but work with the pest control company to make sure you are not interfering with the effectiveness of treatments. All heat traps are the best way to kill bed bugs for every invading the home.

Incense Sticks – 'Sticky' Success

Editor — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 05:00:05 +0000

There are certain problems that are common in almost every household. Problems like dust, molds, pests and such other problems make their presence felt in almost every household. The problem of pests is especially more serious considering that there are so many kinds of pests that are so difficult to control. Pests like mosquitoes, ants, cockroaches and rodents are stubborn pests and encroach every home. However, individuals can free their homes from the menace of pests with simple domestic solutions. Products like incense sticks can be extremely effective against pests and can be used extensively for keeping them away from the house.

Incense Effect

Pests are present in most homes due to various reasons. Pests like mosquitoes and ants can come inside the house if there is stagnant water near the home or if there are plants and trees very close to the home. Pests can also be seen inside the home if there is too much clutter inside the house. If the home is disorganized and unclean with lot of clutter, the pests get enough hiding places and conditions to thrive on. Pests can easily survive in the cracks and crevices in the house and are therefore even difficult to eliminate.

Hence, the remedy of incense sticks is a great option to deal with home pests. Incense sticks are readily available in most homes. If not, people can easily get them in the provision stores and light them in their homes. The incense sticks create a strong fragrance in the home that provides a soothing feel for the people at home. This incense fragrance can act as a repellent against pests invading the home. The incense sticks emit extremely strong smell that the pests find difficult to bear and sustain and are hence forced to leave the area where the smell is present. The fragrance of the incense sticks spreads to all corners of the house and the pests have nowhere to go but to leave the house and go out. Incense sticks can also be used in several other forms in order to get rid of the pests. It is also advised to use pest-repellent sprays on the incense sticks and keep them near crevices, gaps and holes from where the pests enter into the house. The mixture of the smell of the incense and the pest-repellent is enough to keep the pests at bay.

Incense sticks are certainly one of the best and one of the easiest remedies for home pests. Incense sticks are also recommended for pest control because they are not harmful for the people in the house.

Use mousetraps

Editor — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 00:45:03 +0000

About mouse:

The house mice or singularly called as the mouse are introduce4d pests that has been most probably arrived to the American continents during the time of European settlements. At present they are distributed throughout the continent and are usually found within crops and stubble and around sheds and houses. Mouse is a serious nuisance in homes and buildings. These nasty pests are found to contaminate foodstuffs, destroy paper and cloth goods and gnaw on electrical equipments and other possessions. Some specific species of mouse are found to transmit an organic substance called the salmonella, which is capable of causing food poisoning. They can also constitute a potential health hazard especially if they are present in the food preparation areas. Even though in most the times their numbers are low but when seasonal conditions are favorable they can reproduce to such enormous numbers that they become a serious pests causing damage to standing crops, stored products and other equipments.

Control measure and the use of mousetraps:

One of the most effective and conventional control methods for mouse is trapping and poisoning. However trapping is only possible if the building or the house that can largely be made mouse proof by blocking all the holes and by placing sealing strips on the doors and windows. Still if the condition of mouse infestations persists the few ones that infests or enters the house can easily removed by trapping. Trapping involves the use mousetraps. However it is always recommended that there should be a proper inspection to have proper information about the existing number mouse in a specific area and to know that the trapping method will be sufficient enough to put the whole population under control.

Types of traps:

There are different types of traps that are effective against a specific type of mouse breed. Of all one of the most conventional types are the live traps. These are specially designed to trap the mouse live. Most of the live traps are designed like a cage having metal enclosements with bait. Usually the bait comprises of common foodstuffs like fruits, cakes, grains and many more. However these newer innovations like electronic traps are also available.

Use of citronella candles

Editor — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 09:30:03 +0000

Pesticide use has touched new highs worldwide. Pesticide use is no longer confined to farming; it has invaded our homes. A variety of pests from roaches, to geckos, to mosquitoes, fly, fleas and ants are now routinely exterminated with chemical pesticides. This widespread usage of pesticides has serious implications for human health. Keeping this in mind, it is prudent to try alternative methods of pest eradication. For eons, citronella candles have been used to repel insects. Citronella is of the same family as lemongrass; it is a perennial herb that has long been used in Asia for keeping biting insects at bay. In modern times the essential oil from the Citronella plant is extracted and then added to wax candles to achieve similar insect-repelling results.

Citronella- An ecological alternative

Citronella candles are an ecological alternative to bug sprays and commercial insect repellants. These chemical repellants are nondiscriminatory killers; they will eliminate a beneficial insect along with a pest. In sharp contrast, when a Citronella candle is burnt, it emits a strong odor that merely repels insects in the vicinity. What this achieves is that it temporarily drives away an army of irritating bugs. A citronella candle is relatively harmless for not eliminating any pests. Citronella candles are now in vogue for an evening out on the patio or the garden. Burn a citronella candle to keep your guests from being savaged by pesky insects. It is a sound ecological solution that scores over electric bug devices that zap friendly insects too. Citronella candles have gained immense popularity and are de rigueur at evening and nighttime open-air social functions. Their versatility lies in the fact that they are both attractive and functional. Remember a citronella candle will assure you and your guest's peace of mind by warding off insects.

Citronella candles have crossed continental borders because of their intrinsic value. For eons Asians have cultivated the citronella plant as a useful herb to deter biting insects from attacking humans. Now this age old knowledge is cleverly packed in wax candles. Citronella candles are the new age, environmentally sound solution for keeping biting insects at arm's length.

Use ivory liquid dishwashing detergent

Editor — Sat, 13 Nov 2010 09:30:04 +0000

Insecticidal soaps are used to control a variety of insects and pests. Soap is a substance derived from the activity of an alkali such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide on a fat. Fats generally are a blend of particular fatty acid chain lengths. They are effective only when the pests come into direct contact with the spray. Dried residues have a little activity. Although there is very little soap, which has insecticidal properties, several common household types have had some effect when used at 1 to 2 percent rate in water as a spray.

Use of ivory liquid dishwashing detergent

Rather than poisoning fleas, ivory reportedly suffocates fleas, gnats and other bugs. Spray ivory liquid dishwashing detergent in your yard, for the purpose uses a garden sprayer attachment. Fill it with ivory solution. Ivory liquid dish washing detergent can act as a natural insecticide. Dilute with water until it is a 1 or 2 percent solution and then spray on plants and easy to mix. Spray plants until they are drenched. Saturate the area, then let it dry before allowing your dog or anyone else walk on the treated ground. Using this method, people treat their yards every 4 to 6 weeks. This method has proved to be effectual. It helps keeping away pests harming.

Natural controlling

Natural pest control products are a step up from most commercial insecticides; you should still be restrained about using them. Don't just leap at something that cures the symptom, look for the underlying root cause and seek a solution for that problem. Overuse can end up creating new problems, getting rid of one pest in exchange for another. Natural pest control can be a great non-toxic solution to your garden and home pest free.

Multipurpose

A number of other similar successes have been obtained in controlling pests. In spite of this dishwashing detergent liquids are designed to dissolve grease from dishes and clean clothes, not only kill insects, and may cause plant injury by dissolving the waxy protective surface of the plants.

Baygon in pump sprayer for lizards for prevention of pest

Editor — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 06:00:03 +0000

There are many nuisance animals, which invade manmade structures. Some of which you will not consider as a pest until you find them in your kitchen at night. Their presence is however both unnerving and unacceptable. If given a chance to them they will readily move in any structure man builds and removing them can be tricky, and these unwanted creatures are snakes and lizards.

Benefits and limitations

Pest prompts you to think into the future across the range of factors influencing organizational development. The heading themselves can be limiting, try to think beyond them. Some use pestle adding environmental and legal.

Pest

A tool to help explore the likely future external environment under a series of heading, political, economic, social, technological, is a pest.

Lizards

Lizards are abundant in most of the parts. Warm summers and mild winters allow them to prosper. Weather conditions them produce such conditions to help them produce large insect populations, which feed them. Small ponds, gardens and bird feeders are typical manmade microenvironments, which provide shelter, water and food.

Lizard control

Gardens, ponds and streams allow populations of the lizards to prosper. Sprinkler systems will deliver enough water to keep away any lizard happy and this leads to many taking up residence along outside foundation walls. Most species of lizards are harmless and eat small insects. By treating the foundation and landscape around your buildings, insect population can be kept checked. If you allow the insects to thrive around your home, lizards and other undesirable creatures will move in for free food.

Treatment

By treating around your home on a regular basis, these populations will be kept in check. Use a good pump sprayer for doing the work and by keeping theses insects in check you will be keeping lizards away. You can also use an aerosol treatment like Baygon which comes with a crack and crevice tip for getting the treatment deep into voids where insects and lizards. The treatment will kill off unwanted insects, which serve, as food and the treatment will also irritate lizard traps.

Diatomaceous Earth – Earthy Matters

Editor — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:15:03 +0000

Several times there are uninvited guests in our homes. We are forced to share our homes with these inmates. These guests are none other than the very common pests that make an appearance in almost every household. Households all over the world have a common problem of mosquitoes, ants, bugs, beetles and rodents and people usually face the problem of finding ways of eliminating the problems of these pests. There are a large number of ways in which these pests can be eliminated. It is always the best idea to use natural methods to eliminate the problem of pests. One such natural way of eliminating pests is to use diatomaceous earth that eradicates pests very effectively.

Diatomaceous Details

Homes that are unclean, cluttered and not well maintained face the maximum problem of pests. If the basement is not clean and free from clutter the pests get enough food and the perfect hiding place to survive and flourish. Though there are a large number of pest repellents available in the market, they all are artificial and have large amounts of chemicals that can be harmful for the people in the house. Hence, if natural materials are used, the pests can be eradicated without causing any problems for the residents.

Diatomaceous earth is a type of soil that has pest-repelling features. Diatomaceous earth is basically a fine powder made out of the skeletal remains of single cell microscopic algae. These algae consist of silica structures. These remains are used to filter water in water treatment plants and also used in several pest repellents. The diatomaceous earth has a sharp surface and can be used for cleaning homes and remove dust mites and other pests from the homes. The earth contains physico-sorptive properties that are essential to keep the pests away from the homes. The earth has the capacity to absorb lipids form the outer layer of the skin of the pests and dehydrates them. Hence due to lack of water, the insects and other pests die within no time. Diatomaceous earth is extremely useful for particularly controlling cockroach infestation. Cockroaches are considered to the oldest inmates on the earth. This proves their stubborn nature, which indicates that eliminating cockroaches is not an easy task.

Diatomaceous earth is considered as the most effective way to control pests in the most natural way. It is always a good idea to use diatomaceous earth whenever pests invade homes.

Aerosol sprays for honeybee control

Editor — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 09:26:27 +0000

Pests are menace to the society. They are hazard to the human beings as well as to their living conditions. Pest causes damage to various articles owned by man it can even affect him physically. The pests found should be at once subjected to treatment before they take a humongous shape. The growth rate of the pests are generally very high and it does not take them long to attain a bulk shape. Honey bees though have several economical advantages still can be considered as a home pest as they attack the humans.

Honey bee as a pest

Honey bees are economically viable because they collect honey from the nectar of the flower and store them. But when these honey bees develop their swarms in the residential places they can pose several threat to man. The basic harm which they cause to man is that they sting. Their venom is very poisonous. Apart from being poisonous it also hampers the living place. Honey is sometimes stored deep in the wall; this can cause leakage in the wall. This eventually leads to the degradation of the building. After the honey bee moves away from the house to another destination it leaves behind several left overs in the form of pheromones and other residues. This is becomes instrumental in attracting several other forms of pests like ants, beetles etc.

Aerosol sprays to control honey bees

Aerosol is the particulate material which is suspended in the air. Aerosol sprays are those sprays where a liquid is released from a canister under immense pressure through a small nozzle. Thus a mist is created in the air where the particular liquid remain suspended in the air. This method is very useful in controlling the honey bee population in a swarm. Aerosol sprays remain suspended in the air for a longer time and have even distribution throughout the area where it is being sprayed. This helps in wiping out the whole population. It is very dangerous to get near the honey bee swarms, so using an aerosol pole is a very good idea. They are the extra extension poles which are long enough to prevent the user from going near to the honey bee swarm. Cypermethrin is one of the popular aerosol sprays which have a toxic effect on the honey bees. These are odorless and come in the concentrated form that is why they are mixed with water before they are used. This sprayed on various surfaces where the honey bee can build their swarm and are also directly applied to the swarms.

Honey bees are a very dangerous form of home pest and should be done away with as soon as they are cited.

Using repellants

Editor — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 22:30:02 +0000

In the air, carpet, counter or cupboard, this is the story of every home as it is resources with these tiny, often unseen invaders. Pesticides are available for most common household insect pests, but these potent chemical compounds may be more harmful to the people and the environment than the pests. There are many natural, non-toxic ways to control household insect pests. People can use natural or non-toxic way to control pets through repellant.

Repellants for various pests

For ants-The first line of defense is to remove the attractants. Keep counters free of crumbs and sticky spots. Cover the sugar and put the honey jar in plastic bags. Cut off water sources such as drips or dishes left soaking overnight in sink. If the ant invaders persist, try these simple measures like keep a small spray bottle handy and spray the ants with a bit of soapy water. Set out cucumber peels or slices in the kitchen or at the ant's point of entry. Many ants have a natural aversion to cucumber too. Bitter cucumbers work the best. Leave a few tea bags of mint tea near areas where the ants seem most active. Dry and crushed mint leaves or cloves also work as ant deterrents and repellant too.

For dust mites- Microscopic dust mites are everywhere in the home like in the beds, clothing, furniture, book shelves and stuffed animals. For the most part they do not bother anyone, but for people with allergies or asthma, dust mites are a problem. There are few tips or repellants to reduce the dust mite population in the home. Wash bedding at 55 degrees centigrade or higher. Detergents and commercial laundry products have no effect on mites unless the water temperature is high. Keep books, stuffed animals, throw rugs and laundry hampers out of the bedroom of allergy sufferers. Wash stuffed animals occasionally in hot water. Tannic acid neutralizes the allergens in dust mite and animal dander.

For cockroach- the best defense against cockroaches is a clean kitchen and bathroom. If cockroaches are a problem in home or apartment, vacuum well and wash the area with a strong soap. Dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag in a sealed container. This all things can help to get rid pests invading home.

Using nets on windows to prevent from pests

Editor — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:00:03 +0000

Mosquitoes, rats, cockroaches, bees and wasps are common pests that are of public health concern. They are nuisance pests that are capable of carrying disease and contaminating foods. Keep them away, by using simple preventative methods like netting your window.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are biting, irritating, nuisance that can also carry diseases. They peak during the summer months, because of stagnant water laying around in natural wetlands and low lying areas from the winter, spring and early summer rains. Combined with increased vegetation theses conditions are increasing and also their breeding. By taking simple precautions like netting the window, keeping them away, can help people protect themselves from them.

Rats

Rats are destructive and can spread diseases. Deny to rats for food and shelter in order to protecting yourself, by following basic preventions. Putting a net on your window will surely help you in keeping rats away and also the diseases brought by them.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches carry a range of bacteria, causing allergies and diseases. The most commonly cockroaches are found in sewers and drains. They are long, reddish brown in color and on warm nights often come out from drains. They are often found in food cooking areas. They live in warm areas like dishwashers, ovens, fridges and hot water systems. To eat healthy food driving them is necessary. Net in the windows will prevent them to fly and get into the house.

Bees

They are prevalent to be seen in October. The bees present to be of no harm to the people in the local area, as they provide enormous benefit to the environment. If the bees are located on private property, then the owner must arrange for the removal as they are surely to harm. The best way to keep them away is to net your window.

Wasps

Wasps and their nests are found in variety of places like vents, building cavities, holes in trees, holes in the ground and even in the ceiling of the houses. They are a bit larger than the bee and unlike bee; each wasp can sting multiple times. Put net to your window to avoid them entering your house.

Use a sprayer with cyfluthrin and nylar for carpet beetle control

Editor — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:45:02 +0000

Pest can be very serious hazard to the household. They hamper mankind by not only causing physical damage but also by destroying the living conditions. Generally they end to infest the household in bulk. Thus proper measures should be taken in order to ensure that these pests do not turn out to be a bigger hazard. There are several tried and tested techniques existing in the market to prevent the pest. Carpet beetles are one such pest which has got good diet for fabrics. If they are not controlled in time can destroy valuable materials like carpets and bed linens.

Carpet beetle as a pest

Carpet beetles have black centers with white, yellow and brown patches. They are generally 3mm in length. It takes a whole year to develop from an egg to an adult. They are generally found in oriental carpet, tapestries, and wood based wall to wall carpeting. They general feed on dead insects but enjoy dining on carpets, upholstery and various other fabrics. The larval form of the carpet beetle is the most damaging one. These larval forms of the carpet beetle are also being referred as woolly bear.

Use of cyfluthrin to control carpet beetle

Cyfluthrin is a chemical very useful in treating the carpet beetle. This an odorless chemical generally used in the sprayers. Cyfluthrin has got a very long lasting effect. The cyfluthrin generally kill the pupa as well as prevent the hatching of the egg. Thus two to three treatments a month is required and four to six treatments in total is most likely to knock off the whole population.

Use of nylar to control carpet beetle

Nylar is a protein and act as a growth regulator to the pests population. When the pests are exposed to this chemical in their early stages of growth, they develop deformity in their system. They do not grow into a normal feeding and reproducing adults. Thus it ensures that the population is controlled and the growth of this pest is also restricted. This chemical lasts for longer time and generally does so for several weeks.

Carpet beetles are serious household pest and should be treated as soon as they infest the house.

Use mini fogger and nylar for clothes moth control

Editor — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 13:45:02 +0000

Clothes moths are classified as pests since they do enormous damage to clothes. Clothes moths feed on natural clothing; they turn keratin, a protein in clothing, into food. Clothes moths require a steady supply of clothing to survive. Contrary to popular notions, it is not adult clothes moths but the larvae, which need to forage for food, and therefore do the maximum damage. Clothes moths are voracious eaters and will consume just about anything from stained clothing to carpets to human hair. Clothes moths are highly adaptable survivors; the most common variety found worldwide is the webbing clothes moth.

Zap clothes moths with a mini fogger

Given their proclivity for large-scale damage to clothes, it becomes imperative to actively seek methods to eliminate them. For large-scale infestation by clothes moths, a mini fogger may be used. A mini fogger is an aerosol that uses high-grade commercial pesticide that will, as the name suggests, fog the area infested. This misting should aim to destroy both the larvae as well the adult clothes moths. Additionally, a mini fogger has superior dispersal range that covers up to 20 feet of area.

Use Nylar to eliminate clothes moths

Nylar is a growth regulator, which is basically a protein. When clothes moths are exposed to Nylar it ruptures their growth cycles; they are immobilized into stunted growth rates. This application of Nylar also renders them sterile; they are unable to procreate. The primary advantage of Nylar is that it's effectiveness lasts for several weeks. Just one application suffices to end the clothes moth reproductive life cycle.

Clothes moths are a quiet annoyance. Clothes moths are the hidden scourge that takes a heavy toll on your clothes, carpets, furniture, and curtains, anything that they can digest. It takes time to locate their existence and when they are discovered, it is too late to stem the damage. Only extreme steps like use of mini fogger and Nylar are useful for damage control. Clothes moth are found all over the world and when simple moth balls are insufficient to arrest their growth cycles, it is prudent to turn to commercial pesticide use.

Use of carpenter ant granules for carpenter ants

Editor — Sun, 31 May 2009 06:30:08 +0000

Carpenter Ants are one of the largest ants. Carpenter Ants are unique. Their characteristics include scent trails that may be hundreds of feet in length, nocturnal activity, chewing on wood structures and in voids for nesting, an ability to identify leaky, damp wood and voids, an ability to avoid chemically treated areas and find new ways into a structure. Carpenter Ants are a problem when they forage into home. Carpenter ants generate winged reproductive, whose sole purpose is to leave an existing nest to fly away and land somewhere to start a new nest. These tend to be released during the spring but may be found at any time. At this point a thorough inspection would be in order to help locate where nest may be located since carpenter ants will cause cosmetic as well as structural damage if left untreated. Once identified as Carpenter Ants try to determine the magnitude of the problem.

Carpenter Ant Granules as bait

Wheat germ looking bait granule that uses some type of protein attractant that carpenter ants love. It has a slight odor like some type of pet food if open the container and smell it. However, once applied, one cannot smell it nor detect it is present because it is a bait, Carpenter Ant
Granules are among the safest material that can be used for this pest. The grains attracts the carpenter ants and kills them in short period of time.

How to use it?

Outside around the boundary of the home making keep the bait as much as possible far from the liquid foundation treatments since that product will contaminate the bait. One can also use it in turf, around the base of trees, along fencerows, on railroad ties, garden dividers and basically anywhere where the carpenter ants are active.

How to apply

1 lb of the granules is enough to treat up to 1 acre of area. However, when treating around a tree or other areas where there are lot of trailing ants, be sure to use at least 1.5 – 3 ounces just to insure they gather up enough product to tap them out. Granules are the safest and most non-toxic product to kill carpenter ants.

Use nematodes in garden

Editor — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 11:15:05 +0000

Pests come in all shapes and sizes, some of them are cute some are creepy crawlers. It's really best to prevent them from invading your space rather than eliminating them, as each species is necessary in the eco-system.

Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects are those insects, which you can attract your garden with, which prey on harmful insects or their larvae. There are many different species for specific problems. Nematodes are one of them, beneficial in the garden.

Natural remedies

Natural pest control is inexpensive than of buying and applying pesticides, and its safer for your garden, natural wildlife and environment. Each year the farmers three times more than use the amount of pesticides used at homes. Most wildlife pest poisonings, and most surface water contamination from pesticides, come from single-family homes.

Sunflower

There is an odd notion that planting marigolds among the rows of vegetables in the garden will control insect pests. The idea is popular because the marigold, although quite attractive, has a rather unpleasant odor. They share this feature with other attractive flowering plants including the geranium. However, not all varieties of marigolds are effective in controlling nematodes and other pests. A method, which is more effective than planting marigold s inside the row of vegetables is to sow the marigold seeds rather thickly over the garden. Let them grow for at least two months and then plow them under. Their nematode controlling quality should remain in the soil for the entire growing season if done in this matter.

Nematodes

Nematodes, effective against cutworms, a common pest, which destroys, sprouts before they grow into seedlings. Nematodes are also effective against beetles and roots weevil larvae. Nematode eggs are microscopic and come in a small sponge a million at a time. These are mixed with water and applied to the soil, where they hatch and go to work. If they get on foliage, wash them off to the ground. Nematodes are harmless to humans and pets. They are available in some garden centers and through mail-orders catalogues.

Use of neem

Editor — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:15:05 +0000

Neem or azadirachta indica, a native tree of India, has long been known for its natural pesticide properties. Every part of the neem tree can be used as a natural repellant for common pests. This reputation of the neem tree as a medicinal treasure and an insect repellant can be traced back to more than 3000 years. Neem leaves and seeds are used in the manufacture of neem oil. This neem oil contains a natural compound called sallanin, which effectively deters common pests. Neem oil is usually applied as a foliar spray. Thus neem is a natural "antifeedant" where it discourages pests from feeding on neem treated plants. Hence, neem oil is not a direct killer but a controller of pest populations.

How neem inhibits pest populations

To reiterate, neem will not exterminate pests on contact. Instead, neem works more subtly: when neem sprayed pests ingest matter, it effectively ruptures their reproductive systems thus rendering them sterile. The best thing about neem is that it will not harm friendly predators like ladybugs, spiders and bees and is relatively harmless for bird and mammal populations.

How to use neem products

Neem oil should be mixed in exact proportions before it is sprayed on vegetables, flowers or other places that attract pests. The norm is 1 teaspoon per quarter of water plus 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap to emulsify the contents. This solution should be then generously sprayed on surfaces that are pest-prone. In tropical climes, neem oil has long been used as a mosquito repellant. When dried neem oil is mixed with Vaseline in a 1:5 proportion and applied on the skin; or neem oil is mixed with any oil and lighted as a lamp, it effectively repels many insects including mosquitoes. To prevent breeding of mosquitoes, crushed neem seeds or neem oil should be spread in the mosquito breeding area. Neem products ensure complete inhibition of egg generation for a maximum period of 7 days.

Even low doses of neem have shown to be highly efficient in inhibiting larval, pupal and adult molts and reproductive capabilities of several insects including mosquitoes. The only precaution you have to exercise while using neem products is to store them at temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and above.

Use of phenyls

Editor — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:00:03 +0000

Pests are a common problem associated with homes. Pest growth is encouraged often due to changing climatic conditions and unhygienic conditions in the home. Pests at times can be seen in houses in spite of maintaining cleanliness. In such cases often the floor hygiene in neglected that promotes the pest growth. Keeping a clean floor is very crucial for keeping away pests. Use of detergents and other liquid soap is highly recommended for floors. However, for keeping away pests use phenyls is the most effective method.

Affectivity of Phenyls

To keep away floors free from pests it is not possible to wipe the floors every, know and then. Use of phenyls with water prevents pests from the house hours after the use. Phenyls contain anti-fungal and anti-bacterial ingredients that kill the existing pests and prevent the new one from coming.

Phenyls are extremely effective for keeping away ants and bacteria growth. As being in liquid form, phenyl penetrates to the smallest part of the house floor and even in cracks.

Phenyls now days also come with special aroma. The special aroma also works again pests, thus providing a mesmerizing fragrance, and a protective shield to the house.

How to use

Phenyls should be used with water in the prescribed from for wiping the floors. It is advisable to use the concentrated water only for the floors and keep away from food. For the best results wipe the floor with the phenyl concentrated water at least twice in a day. Over concentration can be hazardous.

Proved usages

Phenyl as a remedy for pest control has wide applications. In fact they are used regularly and daily in hospitals where hygiene is most important. Similarly they are also used extensively in hotels and restaurants to keep away fleas and other mosquitoes.

Effective on a variety of pests

Phenyl is effective on a variety of pests. The liquid has proven to be highly effective on bacteria, ants, house fleas and mosquitoes. The antibacterial effect and the aroma of phenyl stay and operate for long time thus giving a long term relives.

Though being chemically prepared phenyl are not hazardous to kids a health thus are ideal for domestic use.

Use basil and mint leaves

Editor — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 21:15:03 +0000

About herbal means of pest control in and around the house:

Creating own pest repellents is a safe and effective alternative to commercial repellents. With the use of herbs and essential oils, one can easily prepare own pest or insect repellents, and products for the pets and home with little effort. Some of the most frequently used natural pest or insect repellent includes basil and mint leaves especially for flies and mosquitoes. Even though there are different varieties of commercial pesticides available in the market today, but most of these potent chemical compounds may prove to be more harmful to the pets and inmates of the house and the environment rather than then the pests themselves. Hence natural and non-toxic methods of pest control in and around the house are always the safe measures.
Description of basil and mint:

The word Basil comes from the Greek word basileus that means king. It is believed that the plant was grown above the spot where St. Constantine and Helen discovered the holy cross. Basil is considered to be the king of herbs. Basil is an important natural means of controlling pests in and around the house. Basically the plant of basil is a tender growing herb that is originally native to tropical Asia. The plant grows to a height of 20 – 60 cm with opposite light green silky leaves. The flowers of basil are white in color and they are arranged in a terminal spikes. Mint is another significant plant that can be used effectively for pest control. The plant of mint is a perennial herb that grows to a height of 10 – 120 cm. The leaves of mint are arranged in opposite pairs and the flowers that are white to purple in color are arranged on an erect spike.

Repellent properties of basil and mint leaves:

Basil and mint are long known to have repellent properties that are especially effective against some specific insects and pests like flies and mosquitoes. Mints planted around the house can act as effective fly repellent. Moreover Basil can be planted in pots and set on the windowsills or tables repel fleas, flies and mosquitoes.

Use cypermethrine and drione dust on roaches

Editor — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:30:03 +0000

Household pests can pose serious threat to the existence of mankind. It is very hazardous to the physical health of the human being as well as the various articles owned by him. Conscious effort should be made get rid of these pests as soon as they are cited in the home. They should a once subjected to treatment because they grow very rapidly and move in clusters. The pests generally infest in bulk. Roaches are one such serious pest which has originated in the Germany. Roaches have got the knack of multiplying very fast. Due to their biology they even multiply faster when their population is under stress. They grow to such an extent that there can be a population explosion within two to six weeks after total cleaning of the household. Thus a proper treatment schedule must be made for them and one should strictly adhere to it. The key behind the success of getting rid of this pest is complete awareness and immense patience while dealing with this pest.

Cypermethrine to control roaches

Cypermethrine is a chemical concentrate and is generally mixed with water before it is put to use. It can be used both inside and outside of the house. This mainly preferred against the German roaches as the chemical nature of this aptly damages the internal systems of the German roaches. They are generally used in the places where the concentration of the pests are high but should also be used in other places so as to prevent any further damage. They are generally mixed with the water at the rate of one ounce per gallon. The disadvantage of this aerosol is that it should be exactly targeted to the area which is being infested or else the pest may survive.

Drione dust to control roaches

Drione is dust which is generally odorless in nature. The drione dust acts as a desiccant to the insects. By the nature of the chemicals it cuts through the exoskeleton of the insects and thus by exposing its system which dries off the insect of all its moisture. They are also not harmful to the human beings thus they are very popular in the market. They can be used several times in order to achieve better results.

Thus, pest control is a very essential activity to ensure better living for the people.

Use toxic mothballs to control pest

Editor — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 06:30:11 +0000

Plant pests include the arthropods such as insects and mites, slugs, snails, snowballs, and pill bugs. Only a small proportion of insects are plant pests with most conspicuous being the butterflies and moths. Crop management to reduce damage by diseases and pest is based on integrated control strategies involves exclusion, eradication, and protection.

Controlling pest

The logical approach to natural pest control is to create a balance of organisms in your house or your garden. In a diverse ecosystem pest populations are regulated naturally. Development of this balance relies on least toxic products that minimize harm to beneficial insects. Traps and lures are used to identify the presence of pests, and to help control them. If the pests are present the least toxic method should be used first with the more toxic, Botanical or Natural insecticides used only if necessary.

Mothballs

Mothballs can be either paradichlorobenzine or naphthalene. Both act as insect's repellents in low concentrations and can be toxic to insects in higher concentrations. Both materials are used extensively as deodorants in public toilets. Mothballs vapor can be toxic to insect larva and adults but only in high concentrations for fairly long periods. Mothballs are meant to be used in small enclosures where clothing is stored such as trunks, drawers, closets, attics storage areas, etc. Never ever use them in large spaces, where you can be exposed to the vapors, or use more than is called for on the label. There can be serious health effects associated with inhaling the vapors.

Vacuum

Placing moth crystals, crushed mothballs or cut-up flea collars in vacuum and is believed by some to have a fumigant effect. Vacuum cleaner bags should always be discarded outside of the home after use or wrapped in a plastic bag and stored in the freezer between uses. Mothballs should only be used enclosed spaced such as a drawer, box or vacuum cleaner bag. Use mothballs only where they are inaccessible to children.