Pests can be annoying, but if they’releft unchecked, they can cause structural damage and health risks. While it is possible to control pests with a fly swatter or similar device, the best way to keep them away is through preventative pest control services. Contact Nature Shield Pest Solutions now!
Preventative services stop pests before they become a problem, eliminating the need for costly treatment options. Harsh chemical pesticides require furniture to be covered and the premises vacated, while non-toxic, eco-friendly pesticides can be used without extra precautions.
People are increasingly interested in living greener lives, from purchasing organic vegetables to using eco-friendly household cleaners. A less-known aspect of the green movement involves pest control, as more and more homeowners are opting for pest management solutions that have fewer risks to their health and the environment. Green pest management focuses on prevention rather than eliminating existing infestations, as it is always more environmentally friendly to keep pests out of homes in the first place.
The key components of green pest management include integrated pest management (IPM) and pest-specific treatments. IPM includes inspections and monitoring of a property to identify pest problems and their causes, such as sanitation issues or access points. In order to prevent pests from returning, a property manager must also take steps to limit the food and water sources that draw them in. This can include removing ripe or infested materials and sealing entry points into structures.
When it comes to treatment, green pest control focuses on biologically-based products and fewer chemicals. A good green pest control program will only use FIFRA-exempt, organic, botanical, or reduced risk pesticides when absolutely necessary. Typically, these will be applied as baits or in small amounts as needed to eliminate a specific pest rather than as a general spray.
These organic, plant-based pesticides are generally effective against most common insects such as cockroaches, ants, and spiders. However, they can also be used against rodents and other common pests. These products are derived from natural ingredients such as peppermint oil, cedarwood, lemon, and tea tree oil. Some companies will even utilize natural predators such as owls and birds to keep pest populations down.
The benefits of green pest management extend far beyond just being kinder to the environment. In fact, many homeowners find that ongoing pest preventative measures can be far cheaper than the cost of eliminating a large pest infestation. Many also report a reduction in stress and an improved sense of wellbeing as a result of working with a company that uses green pest control methods. With so many great benefits, it should come as no surprise that more and more consumers are embracing green pest control options.
Pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals designed to prevent, destroy, or control unwanted plants and organisms. They are used in a variety of ways, including spraying, dusting, or applying to the soil. Pesticides can be biodegradable or persistent, and they are often toxic to non-target organisms as well.
There are many types of pesticides, but the majority of them act in one of two ways. They disrupt the nervous system or they interfere with metabolic processes. Some of the most common pesticides are insecticides, herbicides and fungicides. Insecticides kill insects by either contact or ingestion, and fungicides work to inhibit growth or stop disease progress. Herbicides work by killing or suppressing weeds, and fungicides work to inhibit the growth of fungus-infected plants.
All pesticides are toxic to some degree, but some are more toxic than others. The most toxic are organochlorines (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, dioxin, and other organic compounds), followed by organophosphates and carbamates. Many of the newer fungicides and herbicides are less toxic, but they can still cause damage. The most effective pesticides are selective, meaning that they only target the organism that is causing the problem. This is accomplished by using properly labeled products and following instructions exactly.
In addition to their toxicity, pesticides can also harm the environment by leaching or running off into water or air. This can be caused by improper application or by a change in environmental conditions. Chemicals can also form metabolites or breakdown products that are even more toxic than the parent compound.
Pesticides are most effective when used within an integrated pest management (IPM) plan that uses routine scouting and physical barriers such as netting to keep pest populations below damaging levels. Incorporating the use of beneficial organisms, such as natural enemies or parasitoids, into the IPM plan can help to depress pest population levels and slow the emergence of resistant organisms. It is also advisable to minimize the amount of pesticide needed by selecting high-quality seed or sod, avoiding over-fertilization, and making sure that plants are growing in an environment where they can thrive. This includes ensuring proper irrigation, aeration and drainage, as well as testing soil to ensure proper fertility.
Physical Pest Control
Physical pest control methods kill or block the access of pests to their host, environment or shelter. Depending on the specific method, it may include traps for rodents, steam sterilization of soil to manage diseases, or barriers such as screens to keep insects and birds out of homes and buildings. In addition to being environmentally friendly, this type of pest management often works faster than chemical treatments. It is also less expensive than chemical pesticides.
This is a great approach to take for pests that tend to be more of an nuisance than a threat to human health or the environment, such as pigeons and seagulls. It can also be effective in situations where a pest is allowed to cause damage but must be controlled because of the harm it causes, such as in operating rooms and other sterile areas of health care facilities.
Biological pest control uses nature’s own predators and parasites to reduce or eliminate unwanted organisms, such as the aphid-eating ladybugs or nematodes that can help weeds. This can be as simple as releasing the natural enemies of a pest, or it can involve more complex biocontrol agents, such as microbial solutions engineered from bacteria, which have a wide range of benefits, including low toxicity to humans and plants, fast killing, and a narrow host range.
Pesticides are a useful tool when used correctly, but should always be employed as a last resort in order to prevent the overuse of chemicals. When they are used, they must be applied according to label instructions in order to minimize the amount of pesticide that ends up in the environment, home or business. In addition, the most effective pesticides are often those with the lowest toxicity levels, which minimizes the potential for resistance.
The goal of Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is to use all pest control methods, including physical and biological ones, in conjunction with each other. By staying current with the many available pest management techniques, a professional can deliver the most personalized and effective solution possible for each customer.
Prevention
Pests can cause damage to homes, buildings and crops. They also can spread diseases and cause allergic reactions in people. Preventive treatments can help eliminate pest problems and prevent them from reoccurring.
Prevention involves removing sources of food, water and shelter that attract pests. All pests need these three things to survive. To avoid pests, store food in sealed containers and dispose of garbage regularly. Reduce cluttered areas, and keep trash containers covered.
Sealing entry points is another way to avoid pests. Pests often enter homes through cracks around windows and doors, unscreened vents, and gaps in siding. These can be sealed with caulk or steel wool. Regular inspections can identify entry points and allow for prompt treatment.
Cultural controls are a type of non-chemical control that works with natural enemies to kill or prevent pests. These include nematodes, predators, parasites and fungi. These types of controls are a good choice for organic gardeners or those who are looking to minimize chemical use.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a combination of practices that helps solve pest problems while minimizing risks to people, plants and the environment. IPM includes all aspects of prevention and control, including physical, biological, and cultural controls. It can be used in urban, agricultural, and wildland and natural areas.
The first step in IPM is to find out what kind of pest you have and where they’re coming from. Look for signs of infestations, such as droppings or damaged items. Sticky traps can be placed in problem areas to catch rodents and cockroaches. Observe the pests’ habits to determine what they are after, so you can take away their food, water or shelter.
Pests like cockroaches, ants, and spiders can carry diseases and cause allergic reactions. They can also damage homes and buildings, leading to costly repairs. Preventative pest control measures not only save money but can also improve health and create a safer living environment. Besides reducing the risk of diseases and allergens, these measures can reduce stress and anxiety associated with dealing with pests. They also can improve energy efficiency and reduce the need for chemical treatments.