Pest Control: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Quick Facts About Mice
Because mice produce large litters in a short period of time, an infestation can equal big trouble for any home, school or business owner. Rodent experts say that the infestation of mice will continue to grow as long as competing species, shelter and food will allow. Fortunately for humans, most mice in the wild do not survive three months due to heavy predation.
Because mice produce large litters in a short period of time, an infestation can equal big trouble for any home, school or business owner. Rodent experts say that the infestation of mice will continue to grow as long as competing species, shelter and food will allow. Fortunately for humans, most mice in the wild do not survive three months due to heavy predation.
Getting Rid of Rats
As rats have poor vision, they rely mostly on their other four senses - taste, smell, touch and hearing. They move through darkness by using their long whiskers and guard hairs on their bodies to guide them.
Long term rat eradication efforts must employ a variety of tactics from removing debris and food sources to "rat-proofing" the home to trapping or baiting with rodenticides.
As rats have poor vision, they rely mostly on their other four senses - taste, smell, touch and hearing. They move through darkness by using their long whiskers and guard hairs on their bodies to guide them.
Long term rat eradication efforts must employ a variety of tactics from removing debris and food sources to "rat-proofing" the home to trapping or baiting with rodenticides.
Rats and Mice Revealed
Rats may be associated with squalor and poverty but the truth is that they can flourish as well in a penthouse as they can in an outhouse. Some scientists speculate that mice evolved from rats to fit situations that did not require ferocity or large size, but instead offered shelter entered through small holes.
Rats may be associated with squalor and poverty but the truth is that they can flourish as well in a penthouse as they can in an outhouse. Some scientists speculate that mice evolved from rats to fit situations that did not require ferocity or large size, but instead offered shelter entered through small holes.
Termites Succumb to Orange Oil
In the 1930s, California researchers began injecting arsenic into active infestations of drywood termites, finding that the termites not killed by the initial application, usually succumbed to toxic residues. Now 80 years later, a natural product, orange oil is being marketed as a herbicide and insecticide, with particular kudos to its effectiveness against drywood termites. So, what is this wonder product and how does it kill termites?
In the 1930s, California researchers began injecting arsenic into active infestations of drywood termites, finding that the termites not killed by the initial application, usually succumbed to toxic residues. Now 80 years later, a natural product, orange oil is being marketed as a herbicide and insecticide, with particular kudos to its effectiveness against drywood termites. So, what is this wonder product and how does it kill termites?
Female and Nymph Ticks
A size comparison of a female dog tick and the much smaller nymph.
A size comparison of a female dog tick and the much smaller nymph.
Control of Firewood Pests
Management of the firewood itself is the best way to control pests either living in the wood when the tree was cut or those that have moved into the wood since it has been stored.
Management of the firewood itself is the best way to control pests either living in the wood when the tree was cut or those that have moved into the wood since it has been stored.
Proper Placement - More Kills
Spring operated rat traps are widely available to rid a house, school, or workplace of rats, however proper placement of the rat traps ensures that more rats and mice will be caught. For best results, bait the rat traps with pieces of hot dog, bacon, liver or a trail mix of fruit, raisins, marshmallows or peanut butter rolled in oats. Or bait the rat trap with whatever the mice or rats have been gnawing on in the cupboard or attic, since you are probably going to destroy it anyway.
Spring operated rat traps are widely available to rid a house, school, or workplace of rats, however proper placement of the rat traps ensures that more rats and mice will be caught. For best results, bait the rat traps with pieces of hot dog, bacon, liver or a trail mix of fruit, raisins, marshmallows or peanut butter rolled in oats. Or bait the rat trap with whatever the mice or rats have been gnawing on in the cupboard or attic, since you are probably going to destroy it anyway.
All About Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects, seen as slightly animated lines that run with veins on the underside of plant leaves. Plant damage caused by the thrip's scraping of the leaves and their fecal spots are usually more visible to the naked eye, than the insect. Thrips are often seen in the same areas as aphids and whiteflies so are often killed with their fellow pest insects when insecticides are used. So, because of that, thrips indoors may often go completely unnoticed.
Thrips are tiny insects, seen as slightly animated lines that run with veins on the underside of plant leaves. Plant damage caused by the thrip's scraping of the leaves and their fecal spots are usually more visible to the naked eye, than the insect. Thrips are often seen in the same areas as aphids and whiteflies so are often killed with their fellow pest insects when insecticides are used. So, because of that, thrips indoors may often go completely unnoticed.
Send Flies Packing
Perhaps the world’s most widely distributed insect and certainly one of the most annoying, house flies can be controlled by best practices of sanitation, thorough physical exclusion and by a diligent practice of least toxic, chemical and non-chemical measures.
Perhaps the world’s most widely distributed insect and certainly one of the most annoying, house flies can be controlled by best practices of sanitation, thorough physical exclusion and by a diligent practice of least toxic, chemical and non-chemical measures.
Non-toxic Bed Bug Controls
Bed Bugs are oval, wingless and round-bodied, rusty-red insects about 1/5 inch long. They are the only blood-sucking insects with round bodies and wingless adults. In addition to humans, bed bugs also feast on the blood of bats, birds and rodents. As nocturnal insects, bed bugs hide in crevices of mattresses and upholstery during the day and feast on victim's blood while they are sleeping. Simple, natural pest controls include frequent vacuuming, reducing clutter and sealing cracks and crevices.
Bed Bugs are oval, wingless and round-bodied, rusty-red insects about 1/5 inch long. They are the only blood-sucking insects with round bodies and wingless adults. In addition to humans, bed bugs also feast on the blood of bats, birds and rodents. As nocturnal insects, bed bugs hide in crevices of mattresses and upholstery during the day and feast on victim's blood while they are sleeping. Simple, natural pest controls include frequent vacuuming, reducing clutter and sealing cracks and crevices.
Termite Damage
Although nearly 4,000 species of termites exist, with 400 of these classified as Pests, the primary termite species affecting humans are Subterranean and Drywood. The primary difference between the two types of termite is that the Drywood species can live with only the moisture inherent or trapped in wood, while Subterranean termites require added moisture from the soil or from water leaks.
Although nearly 4,000 species of termites exist, with 400 of these classified as Pests, the primary termite species affecting humans are Subterranean and Drywood. The primary difference between the two types of termite is that the Drywood species can live with only the moisture inherent or trapped in wood, while Subterranean termites require added moisture from the soil or from water leaks.
Control of Garden Slugs
Slugs are a formidable foe in the garden. Able to re-grow their head, they are hermaphroditic, and nocturnal, munching on seedlings, young plants, Hostas and Delphiniums while we sleep. Slug eggs can lay dormant in moist soil for many years and adults can follow slime trails to the same feeding grounds night after night. So, control of slugs is an on-going battle in the garden but one that is very winnable with less toxic methods.
Slugs are a formidable foe in the garden. Able to re-grow their head, they are hermaphroditic, and nocturnal, munching on seedlings, young plants, Hostas and Delphiniums while we sleep. Slug eggs can lay dormant in moist soil for many years and adults can follow slime trails to the same feeding grounds night after night. So, control of slugs is an on-going battle in the garden but one that is very winnable with less toxic methods.
Pest Control for Houseplants
There is a good chance that your houseplants will encounter one or all of these six common pests so least-toxic pest control measures are included.
There is a good chance that your houseplants will encounter one or all of these six common pests so least-toxic pest control measures are included.
Control of Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are important decomposers of forest trees, not feeding on the wood but burrowing within it to nest and feed on insects, plants and fruit juices. However, the ants can move from their native woods to the structures of our homes, where they invade the kitchen, pantry and interior rooms looking for water and human or pet food. Although they are slow to cause harm, they can seriously damage weathered or neglected structures.
Carpenter ants are important decomposers of forest trees, not feeding on the wood but burrowing within it to nest and feed on insects, plants and fruit juices. However, the ants can move from their native woods to the structures of our homes, where they invade the kitchen, pantry and interior rooms looking for water and human or pet food. Although they are slow to cause harm, they can seriously damage weathered or neglected structures.
User Review of Trapper T-Rex
Baited rat traps with bail-trigger mechanisms have been used in home and industrial settings for over 150 years. The manufacturer of the T-Rex trap claims greater user safety and ease of use with a design that allows the bait cup to be loaded from underneath when the trap is unarmed. Also the jaws are set or armed, with a foot pedal.
Baited rat traps with bail-trigger mechanisms have been used in home and industrial settings for over 150 years. The manufacturer of the T-Rex trap claims greater user safety and ease of use with a design that allows the bait cup to be loaded from underneath when the trap is unarmed. Also the jaws are set or armed, with a foot pedal.
Dampwood Termite Prevention
Dampwood termites can generally be kept from infesting wooden structures if wood dampening or rot is eliminated. In addition, drying up leaks, removing clutter and shutting down termite freeways into the home are simple, yet effective deterrents.
Dampwood termites can generally be kept from infesting wooden structures if wood dampening or rot is eliminated. In addition, drying up leaks, removing clutter and shutting down termite freeways into the home are simple, yet effective deterrents.
Thrips in the Home Garden
Found in a rainbow of North American plants from avocadoes to beans, onions, citrus trees and market flowers, thrips are tiny insects,(fringed-winged individuals are hard to see without a magnifying glass)and those species that are plant feeders can scar leaf, flower or fruit surfaces with silvery speckling when they puncture and suck out the cell's content.
Found in a rainbow of North American plants from avocadoes to beans, onions, citrus trees and market flowers, thrips are tiny insects,(fringed-winged individuals are hard to see without a magnifying glass)and those species that are plant feeders can scar leaf, flower or fruit surfaces with silvery speckling when they puncture and suck out the cell's content.
Rat Droppings in an Attic
Rat droppings in attic insulation leave no doubt that the pesky rodents have take up residence.
Rat droppings in attic insulation leave no doubt that the pesky rodents have take up residence.
Tent Fumigation Prep Checklist
Every year, thousands of homes, schools and commercial structures are tent-fumigated to control dry wood termite infestations. Perparations must be taken prior by the homeowner, landlord and tenants to protect personal property, foodstuffs, pets and landscaping in addition to ensuring the effectiveness of this expensive periodic treatment.
Every year, thousands of homes, schools and commercial structures are tent-fumigated to control dry wood termite infestations. Perparations must be taken prior by the homeowner, landlord and tenants to protect personal property, foodstuffs, pets and landscaping in addition to ensuring the effectiveness of this expensive periodic treatment.
Natural Mosquito Control
USDA researchers have applied for a patent for commercial production of a pine oil compound that they say is more effective than DEET at repelling wild mosquitoes and dog ticks.
USDA researchers have applied for a patent for commercial production of a pine oil compound that they say is more effective than DEET at repelling wild mosquitoes and dog ticks.
Controlling German Cockroaches
Pests in homes, schools, restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, and offices, cockroaches contaminate food and eating utensils, stain and defile surfaces, destroy fabric and paper products. Why worry? German cockroaches are believed to transmit disease-causing organisms such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, hepatitis virus and coliform bacteria. Also, asthma associations suggest that up to 60% of urban residents are allergic to the feces, saliva and urine of cockroaches.
Pests in homes, schools, restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, and offices, cockroaches contaminate food and eating utensils, stain and defile surfaces, destroy fabric and paper products. Why worry? German cockroaches are believed to transmit disease-causing organisms such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, hepatitis virus and coliform bacteria. Also, asthma associations suggest that up to 60% of urban residents are allergic to the feces, saliva and urine of cockroaches.
Carpenter Ant-a common household pest
Carpenter ants favor nest locations made of, or near wood, such as frame houses, woodpiles, attics and hollow trees. These ants can be physically barred from a home by sealing all cracks in walls, joists and slabs, in addition to removing adjacent shrubbery and overhanging trees. Fireplace woodpiles should be located away from the home, any water leaks and rotted wood, especially in ceilings or attics, repaired and dried up. Diatomaceous earth and silica gel can be applied where ants are noted.
Carpenter ants favor nest locations made of, or near wood, such as frame houses, woodpiles, attics and hollow trees. These ants can be physically barred from a home by sealing all cracks in walls, joists and slabs, in addition to removing adjacent shrubbery and overhanging trees. Fireplace woodpiles should be located away from the home, any water leaks and rotted wood, especially in ceilings or attics, repaired and dried up. Diatomaceous earth and silica gel can be applied where ants are noted.
Winged Ant Behavior and ID
Ants are social insects that form colonies and nests, either indoors or out. At certain times of the year, male and female winged ants leave the nest to mate and form new colonies. Winged ants are often confused with winged termites but there are at least three distinguishing features between the two. Learn more here.
Ants are social insects that form colonies and nests, either indoors or out. At certain times of the year, male and female winged ants leave the nest to mate and form new colonies. Winged ants are often confused with winged termites but there are at least three distinguishing features between the two. Learn more here.
Homeonwers Get Rid of Rats
The three most important urban rodents - Norway rats, roof rats and house mice are highlighted and treatment options are discussed that if followed by every homeonwer will help make their communities rat-free.
The three most important urban rodents - Norway rats, roof rats and house mice are highlighted and treatment options are discussed that if followed by every homeonwer will help make their communities rat-free.
No More Toxic Shampoos
Treatment for lice infestations runs the gamut from shaving the victim's head to spraying insecticides on the victim's scalp to combing out eggs and adult lice with a very fine-toothed comb. Although all of these methods have their drawbacks, combing and shampooing the victim's head is by far the least invasive, safest and the method to be explored in this article.
Treatment for lice infestations runs the gamut from shaving the victim's head to spraying insecticides on the victim's scalp to combing out eggs and adult lice with a very fine-toothed comb. Although all of these methods have their drawbacks, combing and shampooing the victim's head is by far the least invasive, safest and the method to be explored in this article.
Rabbits Munching in the Garden
With noses that twitch and tails gone fuzzy, rabbits can be adorable as pets or as one of the gathering at backyard feeders. However, they can wreak havoc on landscaping and gardens, feasting on a range of plants from young trees and broccoli to tree nuts, berries and herbs. Step inside in read more about rabbits as pests, their identification, prevention and control.
With noses that twitch and tails gone fuzzy, rabbits can be adorable as pets or as one of the gathering at backyard feeders. However, they can wreak havoc on landscaping and gardens, feasting on a range of plants from young trees and broccoli to tree nuts, berries and herbs. Step inside in read more about rabbits as pests, their identification, prevention and control.
House Mouse Identification
House Mice seem to be an endlessly adaptable pest, living in a range of environs from the blazing tropics to the frozen Actic tundra. Although more than 300 separate varieties of House Mice are known, there are some common distinguishing characteristics that all House Mice share.
House Mice seem to be an endlessly adaptable pest, living in a range of environs from the blazing tropics to the frozen Actic tundra. Although more than 300 separate varieties of House Mice are known, there are some common distinguishing characteristics that all House Mice share.
Tomato Hornworm - Garden Pest
Tomato hornworms dine without remorse on nightshade vegetables,( tomatoes, potatoes, peppers and eggplants) in the home garden, even killing young plants. However, they can be controlled with least-toxic pest control methods such as hand picking, attracting/releasing parasitic wasps or by spraying Bacillus thuringensis, variety kurstaki, onto the garden soil as caterpillars emerge to feed.
Tomato hornworms dine without remorse on nightshade vegetables,( tomatoes, potatoes, peppers and eggplants) in the home garden, even killing young plants. However, they can be controlled with least-toxic pest control methods such as hand picking, attracting/releasing parasitic wasps or by spraying Bacillus thuringensis, variety kurstaki, onto the garden soil as caterpillars emerge to feed.
Send German Cockroaches Packin
Cockroaches eat everything that humans do, some things that humans will not touch. They live in moist, warm and dark environments, so good sanitation is always the first method of cockroach control.
Cockroaches eat everything that humans do, some things that humans will not touch. They live in moist, warm and dark environments, so good sanitation is always the first method of cockroach control.
RId the Home of Termites
Termites have six well defined legs, straight antennae and thick waists. Subterranean species feed on wood, eating between the grain and filling the void with dirt. They require moisture and their nest must contact the soil. Conversely, drywood termite species live above the ground, cut across the grain of wood and do not fill the void with dirt.
Termites have six well defined legs, straight antennae and thick waists. Subterranean species feed on wood, eating between the grain and filling the void with dirt. They require moisture and their nest must contact the soil. Conversely, drywood termite species live above the ground, cut across the grain of wood and do not fill the void with dirt.
Tomato Disease Made Easy
Tomatoes can be susceptible to a plethora of diseases, their symptoms visible as spottted, yellow, curled or wilted leaves, fruit with rotted ends, spots or covered in white mildew or stems that are stunted, cracked or filled with holes. Following a step-by-step method can lead to easy, early detection before the disease consumes the tomato plant or spreads throughout the garden.
Tomatoes can be susceptible to a plethora of diseases, their symptoms visible as spottted, yellow, curled or wilted leaves, fruit with rotted ends, spots or covered in white mildew or stems that are stunted, cracked or filled with holes. Following a step-by-step method can lead to easy, early detection before the disease consumes the tomato plant or spreads throughout the garden.
Banish Carpenter Ants
Look for two distinct characteristics when you look at the Carpenter Ant in profile. First, carpenter ants have a smooth, rounded back with no humps and secondly, carpenter ants have a tiny pyramid or pedicel at their waist. You may be wondering how to catch such a quick insect and get it hold still while you examine it. Flick the ant into a small plastic or glass container with a lid and place it in the freezer for a few minutes.
Look for two distinct characteristics when you look at the Carpenter Ant in profile. First, carpenter ants have a smooth, rounded back with no humps and secondly, carpenter ants have a tiny pyramid or pedicel at their waist. You may be wondering how to catch such a quick insect and get it hold still while you examine it. Flick the ant into a small plastic or glass container with a lid and place it in the freezer for a few minutes.
When Wild Pigs Become Pests
Wild or feral pigs have thrived due to a lack of natural predators in North America and most of Europe, adapting to an incredibly diverse variety of climes and eco-systems, from dripping rainforests to arid deserts and nearly everywhere in between. In addition, their diet is whatever they can see although their noses are said to be more discriminating than their eyesight. As pests, wild pigs can infect domestic swine with crippling viruses so care must be taken to prevent interactions.
Wild or feral pigs have thrived due to a lack of natural predators in North America and most of Europe, adapting to an incredibly diverse variety of climes and eco-systems, from dripping rainforests to arid deserts and nearly everywhere in between. In addition, their diet is whatever they can see although their noses are said to be more discriminating than their eyesight. As pests, wild pigs can infect domestic swine with crippling viruses so care must be taken to prevent interactions.
Pesticide Safety
Some home, garden, school and workplace pest populations may be controlled with pesticides when all reasonable pest control efforts have been exhausted. However, safety precautions, like reading and heeding the product labels and wearing protective equipment must always be the first priority of any applicator.
Some home, garden, school and workplace pest populations may be controlled with pesticides when all reasonable pest control efforts have been exhausted. However, safety precautions, like reading and heeding the product labels and wearing protective equipment must always be the first priority of any applicator.
Squash Leaf and Vine Pests
Squash are one of the most popular of vegetables. To fully enjoy the rich taste of squash regardless of the season, pick the summer varieties while the rind and seeds are still immature but leave their cooler weather cousins on the vines until they fully mature. Squash prefer well drained soil packed with organic matter. Mulch can be used to prevent water evaporation and to minimize disease. Not growing squash in the same garden area every year is helpful in squashing pests.
Squash are one of the most popular of vegetables. To fully enjoy the rich taste of squash regardless of the season, pick the summer varieties while the rind and seeds are still immature but leave their cooler weather cousins on the vines until they fully mature. Squash prefer well drained soil packed with organic matter. Mulch can be used to prevent water evaporation and to minimize disease. Not growing squash in the same garden area every year is helpful in squashing pests.
Wasp & Yellow Jacket Fast Fax
Wasps and Yellow Jackets can be as beneficial as well as pesky pests. So if they are just hanging around and not bothering anyone, let them be. They can help pollinate and rid the garden of other pests. If however, they have located their nest too close for human comfort, leave the toxic chemicals on the market's shelf and follow the non-toxic tip you will read here.
Wasps and Yellow Jackets can be as beneficial as well as pesky pests. So if they are just hanging around and not bothering anyone, let them be. They can help pollinate and rid the garden of other pests. If however, they have located their nest too close for human comfort, leave the toxic chemicals on the market's shelf and follow the non-toxic tip you will read here.
Organic Control of Lawn Pests
A beautiful lawn that is as easy on the eyes and barefeet as it is on the environment is a matter of planning and follow-through. This article identifies some common insect pests that plague lawns and suggests organic control methods.
A beautiful lawn that is as easy on the eyes and barefeet as it is on the environment is a matter of planning and follow-through. This article identifies some common insect pests that plague lawns and suggests organic control methods.
Banish Head Lice
Head Lice are tiny, ( 1/10") parasitic insects without wings, that bite and suck blood from the scalp of the host and lay eggs or nits, on hair strands. For Head Lice infestations, shampoo with coconut oil shampoo and comb the hair in sections, removing the nits with a fingernail. Repeat this process daily until no more nits are found.
Head Lice are tiny, ( 1/10") parasitic insects without wings, that bite and suck blood from the scalp of the host and lay eggs or nits, on hair strands. For Head Lice infestations, shampoo with coconut oil shampoo and comb the hair in sections, removing the nits with a fingernail. Repeat this process daily until no more nits are found.
Ticks Spread Lyme Disease
Most reported cases of Lyme Disease in the U.S. occur during the summer months, the prime season for camping, working in the garden, berry picking, and picnicking.Ticks, the leading carrier of diseases infecting humans in the U.S., detect shadows, body odors and exhaled carbon dioxide as their potential hosts walk through tall brush and weeds, or sit on the ground.
Most reported cases of Lyme Disease in the U.S. occur during the summer months, the prime season for camping, working in the garden, berry picking, and picnicking.Ticks, the leading carrier of diseases infecting humans in the U.S., detect shadows, body odors and exhaled carbon dioxide as their potential hosts walk through tall brush and weeds, or sit on the ground.
Controlling Argentine Ants
Ants are the most abundant of all social insects, with an estimated 1 Quadrillion (15 Zeroes), of them on earth at any one given time. They live in colonies with 3 distinct castes: workers, Queens and males, each with specific functions within the colony.
Ants are the most abundant of all social insects, with an estimated 1 Quadrillion (15 Zeroes), of them on earth at any one given time. They live in colonies with 3 distinct castes: workers, Queens and males, each with specific functions within the colony.
Controlling Flower Pests
Citrus mealybugs, first identified in the U.S. in 1879 can infest and destroy greenhouse and outdoor crops of plant hosts such as Tulips, Cannas, Begonias, Narcissus and Coleus. Although absolute control is difficult, beneficial insects such as Mealybug Destroyer beetles can devastate pest populations when released into greenhouses or outdoors in temperate areas or during the warm seasons in colder climate zones.
Citrus mealybugs, first identified in the U.S. in 1879 can infest and destroy greenhouse and outdoor crops of plant hosts such as Tulips, Cannas, Begonias, Narcissus and Coleus. Although absolute control is difficult, beneficial insects such as Mealybug Destroyer beetles can devastate pest populations when released into greenhouses or outdoors in temperate areas or during the warm seasons in colder climate zones.
Striped Skunk
Striped skunks usually avoid human and pet contact but when threatened will stomp their feet and raise their tail in warning before dousing the intruder with a gagging perfume that is as hard to remove as it is easy to avoid.
Striped skunks usually avoid human and pet contact but when threatened will stomp their feet and raise their tail in warning before dousing the intruder with a gagging perfume that is as hard to remove as it is easy to avoid.
How to Use Horticultural Oils
Horticultural oils are effective when used as pesticides, cheaper than beneficial insects and safe for applicators, gardeners, families and pets. In addition, using less or no synthetic pesticides increases the numbers and diversity of beneficial insects as well as enhancing the health and sustainability of the environment.
Horticultural oils are effective when used as pesticides, cheaper than beneficial insects and safe for applicators, gardeners, families and pets. In addition, using less or no synthetic pesticides increases the numbers and diversity of beneficial insects as well as enhancing the health and sustainability of the environment.
Garden Snails Exposed
Pest snails and slugs munch on a variety of garden, farm adn orchard produce from salad vegetables to potatoes, brussel sprouts and cereal crops, hibiscus, orchids, apples and pears. Step inside to learn all you ever wanted to know about these slimy pests.
Pest snails and slugs munch on a variety of garden, farm adn orchard produce from salad vegetables to potatoes, brussel sprouts and cereal crops, hibiscus, orchids, apples and pears. Step inside to learn all you ever wanted to know about these slimy pests.
Insect Scales - Damage Control
Scale insects generally are not as harmful to plants as they are unsightly and as a cause for secondary pest problems such as black mold that grows on the honeydew that certain scale species exude. In this article, both "Armored" and "Soft" scale varieties are described, as well as their respective plant damages and control tips are offered.
Scale insects generally are not as harmful to plants as they are unsightly and as a cause for secondary pest problems such as black mold that grows on the honeydew that certain scale species exude. In this article, both "Armored" and "Soft" scale varieties are described, as well as their respective plant damages and control tips are offered.
Grasshoppers in the HomeGarden
Adult grasshoppers will eat almost any kind of vegetation in the home garden, using chewing mouthparts to munch on the leaves and flowers of young carrots, beans, corn, lettuce and onions. Unless their populations are very high, grasshoppers will usually be held in check by their natural predators; various beetles and their larvae, flies, birds, nematodes and fungus. Step inside to read more on managing and controlling these high-jumpers of the insect world.
Adult grasshoppers will eat almost any kind of vegetation in the home garden, using chewing mouthparts to munch on the leaves and flowers of young carrots, beans, corn, lettuce and onions. Unless their populations are very high, grasshoppers will usually be held in check by their natural predators; various beetles and their larvae, flies, birds, nematodes and fungus. Step inside to read more on managing and controlling these high-jumpers of the insect world.
Squash Bug Control
Do your squash leaves have pale green patches, with older patches that are turning brown while the vines themselves are wilting? If so, Squash Bugs are probably to blame. Step inside to learn how to control them, Squash Vine Borers, and Cucumber Beetles.
Do your squash leaves have pale green patches, with older patches that are turning brown while the vines themselves are wilting? If so, Squash Bugs are probably to blame. Step inside to learn how to control them, Squash Vine Borers, and Cucumber Beetles.
Use Copper to Control Disease
Available in liquid (to be sprayed) or dust from nurseries, garden centers and online, Copper is a natural fungicide that will control a wide variety of diseases on vine crops such as melons and cucumbers in addition to potatoes, tomatoes and roses. Specifically, Copper is effective against leaf spot, anthracnose, black spot on roses and tomatoes as well as downy and powdery mildew.
Copper can even be combined with rotenone and used as an insecticide.
Available in liquid (to be sprayed) or dust from nurseries, garden centers and online, Copper is a natural fungicide that will control a wide variety of diseases on vine crops such as melons and cucumbers in addition to potatoes, tomatoes and roses. Specifically, Copper is effective against leaf spot, anthracnose, black spot on roses and tomatoes as well as downy and powdery mildew.
Copper can even be combined with rotenone and used as an insecticide.
Beneficial Guardian Nematodes
Nematodes, those microscopic, yet dastardly wormy pests of the garden, usually are known for their damage; gnarled tomato, pepper, corn and potato roots or weakened stems and dying tissues on onions and chrysanthemums. Yet the root knot species responsible for these acts of garden mayhem are the outlaw cousins of the beneficial species that enrich the living soil by breaking down organic matter in addition to preying on a smorgasbord of pests.
Nematodes, those microscopic, yet dastardly wormy pests of the garden, usually are known for their damage; gnarled tomato, pepper, corn and potato roots or weakened stems and dying tissues on onions and chrysanthemums. Yet the root knot species responsible for these acts of garden mayhem are the outlaw cousins of the beneficial species that enrich the living soil by breaking down organic matter in addition to preying on a smorgasbord of pests.
Lizards in the Home Garden
Many lizard species feed exclusively on insects and other invertebrate pests, including slugs and snails. They can be encouraged to be permanent residents of the home garden by taking a few simple steps. To learn more, step inside.
Many lizard species feed exclusively on insects and other invertebrate pests, including slugs and snails. They can be encouraged to be permanent residents of the home garden by taking a few simple steps. To learn more, step inside.
Limiting Local Snakes
Snakes have been either worshipped or reviled for centuries and usually do not bite unless cornered, handled or stepped-on. Despite the fact that snakes are predators of rodents, lizards and frogs, many persons consider snakes to be pests and do not want them in the garden or yard. For them, this article outlines a few simple yard maintenance ideas to limit the local snake population.
Snakes have been either worshipped or reviled for centuries and usually do not bite unless cornered, handled or stepped-on. Despite the fact that snakes are predators of rodents, lizards and frogs, many persons consider snakes to be pests and do not want them in the garden or yard. For them, this article outlines a few simple yard maintenance ideas to limit the local snake population.
Common Fly
Common fly causes a gentleman some concern.
Common fly causes a gentleman some concern.
Imported Fire Ants-Fast Facts
Found in densities ranging from 20-800 mounds per acre, imported fire ants are expected eventually to colonize at least 25% of the continental United States, their rampant spread tempered only by their cold weather sensitivity.
Found in densities ranging from 20-800 mounds per acre, imported fire ants are expected eventually to colonize at least 25% of the continental United States, their rampant spread tempered only by their cold weather sensitivity.
No Read, No Spray
Every pesticide sold in the U.S. is required by the Environmental Protection Agency to be labeled with the active ingredient and its percentage in total composition, the names and percentages of other or inert ingredients and any needed signal words to advise purchasers and applicators of the chemical's short term toxicity to humans.
Every pesticide sold in the U.S. is required by the Environmental Protection Agency to be labeled with the active ingredient and its percentage in total composition, the names and percentages of other or inert ingredients and any needed signal words to advise purchasers and applicators of the chemical's short term toxicity to humans.
Alien Beetles Doom Hardwoods
Hitchhiking to North America in the mid 1990s aboard shipping crates, Asian Longhorned Beetles are devastating deciduous hardwood forests not only in the U.S. and Canada but in Europe and the United Kingdom as well. Pupae burrow or tunnel into the host tree's heartwood, literally sucking out its life and eventually killing it.
Hitchhiking to North America in the mid 1990s aboard shipping crates, Asian Longhorned Beetles are devastating deciduous hardwood forests not only in the U.S. and Canada but in Europe and the United Kingdom as well. Pupae burrow or tunnel into the host tree's heartwood, literally sucking out its life and eventually killing it.
Pest Free Workplace
Pests in the workplace are responsible for the induction and transmission of a range of human maladies from rabies and Lyme Disease to asthma and intestinal parasites.
Pests in the workplace are responsible for the induction and transmission of a range of human maladies from rabies and Lyme Disease to asthma and intestinal parasites.
Eliminate Contact with Rodents
Rat Lung Disease was a term used until 1993 to categorize the deaths due to acute respiratory failure in young, healthy, fit persons. Deeper examination led to isolation of the cause as a Hantavirus carried by rodents and transmitted to humans by contact with rodent feces or even dust that had been in the presence of such droppings. The primary symptom is severe shortness of breath and patients are usually intubated and treated with oxygen therapy. There are no cures or vaccines for HPS.
Rat Lung Disease was a term used until 1993 to categorize the deaths due to acute respiratory failure in young, healthy, fit persons. Deeper examination led to isolation of the cause as a Hantavirus carried by rodents and transmitted to humans by contact with rodent feces or even dust that had been in the presence of such droppings. The primary symptom is severe shortness of breath and patients are usually intubated and treated with oxygen therapy. There are no cures or vaccines for HPS.
Hiring Pest Control Specialist
You may contract a pest control company to manage prevention or infestations of a wide range of pests from ants, roaches and moths to termites, ticks and fleas. Many factors should influence your decision from the company's reputation and licensing status to your satisfaction of their answers to your questions and a complete understanding of every portion of a contract.
You may contract a pest control company to manage prevention or infestations of a wide range of pests from ants, roaches and moths to termites, ticks and fleas. Many factors should influence your decision from the company's reputation and licensing status to your satisfaction of their answers to your questions and a complete understanding of every portion of a contract.
Control & Management of Fleas
Fleas, although a very small insect can bedevil rodents, skunks, cats, dogs and humans and are a carrier of the Bubonic Plague. In addition, flea saliva causes dermatitis on Fido and Fluffy's coats while their feces can harbor tapeworms which are passed onto pets. So, pest control of fleas in the yard, home and on pets is very important and easily accomplished by frequent vacuuming, clearing the yard of litter and debris and by establishing a regular bathing and grooming schedule for pets.
Fleas, although a very small insect can bedevil rodents, skunks, cats, dogs and humans and are a carrier of the Bubonic Plague. In addition, flea saliva causes dermatitis on Fido and Fluffy's coats while their feces can harbor tapeworms which are passed onto pets. So, pest control of fleas in the yard, home and on pets is very important and easily accomplished by frequent vacuuming, clearing the yard of litter and debris and by establishing a regular bathing and grooming schedule for pets.
Secure Garbage Means Fewer Rat
Using metal cans with tight fitting, secured lids, set on a platform off the ground and away from garages or the house will go a long way toward rat-proofing household garbage. Meticulous sanitation in and around the yard, especially under fruit trees or concerning pets, will help close the deal on marauding rats.
Using metal cans with tight fitting, secured lids, set on a platform off the ground and away from garages or the house will go a long way toward rat-proofing household garbage. Meticulous sanitation in and around the yard, especially under fruit trees or concerning pets, will help close the deal on marauding rats.
Measures for Mosquito Control
Like most pests, mosquitoes can be controlled by arming yourself with knowledge and applying common sense preventive measures.
Like most pests, mosquitoes can be controlled by arming yourself with knowledge and applying common sense preventive measures.
Pest Free Mulching
Mulches may attract pests depending on the specific pest infestation, the specific type of mulch used and the specific location(s) where the mulch is applied.
Mulches may attract pests depending on the specific pest infestation, the specific type of mulch used and the specific location(s) where the mulch is applied.
Termites are food, not pests for some rainforest natives.
Termites are a staple of the diet for some rainforest natives.
Termites are a staple of the diet for some rainforest natives.
Pest Control - Articles
An index of articles for the Pest Control guide site.
An index of articles for the Pest Control guide site.
IPM Plan Checklist
Integrated Pest Management(IPM), principles may be applied to a variety of crops and plants in a home or commercial setting from flowers and shrubs to vegetables and fruit. The goals of IPM are to reduce the damage caused by a range of pests from insects, weeds, and nematodes to birds, deer and fungi while limiting costs, protecting the environment and maintaining health for humans, pets and non-pests.
Integrated Pest Management(IPM), principles may be applied to a variety of crops and plants in a home or commercial setting from flowers and shrubs to vegetables and fruit. The goals of IPM are to reduce the damage caused by a range of pests from insects, weeds, and nematodes to birds, deer and fungi while limiting costs, protecting the environment and maintaining health for humans, pets and non-pests.
Growing Roses Made Easier
Roses can be grown organically in the home garden through planning, timely, informed and continued efforts. Pests can be controlled and disease minimized, leaving time to enjoy blooms on the bush or trellis or in the vase. Step inside to learn how.
Roses can be grown organically in the home garden through planning, timely, informed and continued efforts. Pests can be controlled and disease minimized, leaving time to enjoy blooms on the bush or trellis or in the vase. Step inside to learn how.
Common Mosquito
Photo of common household mosquito
Photo of common household mosquito
Light Brown Apple Moth a Pest?
Preventing the establishment of invasive species is always the best method, however when a population is seen as a pest by powerful business sectors, government officials may intervene as they did in California.
Preventing the establishment of invasive species is always the best method, however when a population is seen as a pest by powerful business sectors, government officials may intervene as they did in California.
Get Rid of Lawn Pests
A beautiful lawn that is as easy on the eyes and barefeet as it is on the environment is a matter of planning and follow-through. This article identifies some common insect pests that plague lawns and suggests proven organic control methods.
A beautiful lawn that is as easy on the eyes and barefeet as it is on the environment is a matter of planning and follow-through. This article identifies some common insect pests that plague lawns and suggests proven organic control methods.
Deer Gone Wild
If deer have become pests in your yard and garden, 8 foot high fencing can be used to enclose your garden or yard's perimeter along with motion activated sprinklers and aromatic natural repellants. Also, outdoor dogs are helpful guards within a fenced area and deer resistant plants will serve to allay Bambi and her friend's appetites.
If deer have become pests in your yard and garden, 8 foot high fencing can be used to enclose your garden or yard's perimeter along with motion activated sprinklers and aromatic natural repellants. Also, outdoor dogs are helpful guards within a fenced area and deer resistant plants will serve to allay Bambi and her friend's appetites.
Garden Slug Controls
Least-toxic garden slug controls are available commercially that do not harm either the environment or endanger pets, humans and other wildlife as toxic pellets and baits do. The following products, while not totally benign, are designed to get rid of garden slugs.
Least-toxic garden slug controls are available commercially that do not harm either the environment or endanger pets, humans and other wildlife as toxic pellets and baits do. The following products, while not totally benign, are designed to get rid of garden slugs.