Pest Control Basics

Pest control involves reducing the number of pests that can cause harm to people, plants, or other animals. This can be done by preventing pests from getting into your home, controlling them once they do enter, or eliminating them completely.

Prevention

It is possible to prevent pests from entering your home by making changes that will make it less attractive for them. For example, sealing up cracks and holes in the foundation or siding of your house can help keep pests out. Also, securing your exterior doors and windows can help prevent them from coming inside.

Rodents

Rats and mice are among the most common types of pests. They are found in a variety of homes and businesses, and they can cause damage to wiring, food storage containers and other important items. They can also carry disease agents that can cause health problems such as hantavirus, leptospirosis and Salmonella. Look for more facts about pest control at http://edition.cnn.com/2016/05/09/health/pesticide-poisoning-investigation/index.html.

The best way to prevent rats and mice is to install screens in your windows or use rodent traps if you have them. Then, if you spot them in your house, call a professional pest company that can handle the situation.

Chemical pest control

There are many different kinds of chemicals used to control pests. These can be used in the form of liquids, powders or sprays. Each type of chemical has a unique safety and efficacy profile, so it is important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions.

Biological control

Using living organisms to Raleigh Pest Control populations can be a more natural approach than using chemical chemicals. Often, this is accomplished by introducing predators, parasites and plant pathogens that naturally control pests. This is particularly effective for small insects, such as aphids and spider mites.

Insects that have a short life cycle can be kept in check by placing insect-eating fish in ornamental ponds and by changing the water frequently. Similarly, certain nematodes and fungi can be introduced to control soil pests such as corn rootworms.

Other ways to keep insects out of your garden are to remove dead and dying plants and replant them. You can also smother or spray plants that have been infested with aphids, slugs and other pests.

Plants that have a wide range of berries, fruits, vegetables and flowers are attractive to flies, moths, and other insects that may be attracted to your garden. These plants can also be attractive to slugs, snails and other pests.

You can also control ants by using products that contain slug-eating or ant-crushing agents. These are available from the local hardware store.

These Raleigh NC Pest Control products are also effective against bees, flies and other insects that tend to sting or bite humans. They are not as toxic to pets or children as some other forms of insecticides.

Keeping your home clean and free of clutter will also prevent pests from being able to hide in areas that they can get into easily, like closets and storage spaces. It is important to regularly sweep and vacuum your home to ensure that it remains free of debris.