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Green Pest Solutions
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.
Natural Pest Control Solutions For A Greener Home
As consumers have become increasingly aware of the impact their choices have on the environment, eco-friendly Pest Control Overland Park has grown in popularity. These methods use natural ingredients and less harmful substances to combat pests like ants, beetles, and rodents while maintaining the balance of local ecosystems.
Cinnamon, for example, deters a wide range of insects by masking the scents that attract them. Other environmentally friendly products include essential oils, diatomaceous earth, and sticky traps.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is one of the most versatile pest control solutions you can use in your garden. As a natural insecticide, it kills soft-bodied pests (like aphids, caterpillars, and mites) on contact. It also serves as a deterrent, keeping many insects from coming near your plants in the first place. In addition to being a pesticide, neem oil is a natural fungicide, treating and preventing fungal diseases like powdery mildew, rust, leaf spot, and scab.
The active ingredient in neem oil is called Azadirachtin. This substance is extracted from neem seeds and other parts of the tree and then used to disrupt an insect’s hormones that control breeding and growth. This compound is the main ingredient in most ready-to-use neem oil sprays that can be purchased at your local garden center.
When applied as a spray, neem oil is effective on most indoor and outdoor plants, including vegetables and roses. You can apply it to all areas of the plant, including leaves and stems, as well as around the roots. You can even use it as a soil drench, pouring the neem oil directly on the ground to treat nematodes and fungus gnat larvae.
You’ll want to use neem oil sparingly, applying it only when necessary. Too much can be absorbed by the plant and damage it. Also, neem oil can be irritating to human skin and eyes, so it’s best to avoid direct contact with the product. You’ll also want to wash your hands after applying it and take care not to inhale or ingest the oil.
If you do decide to apply neem oil, it’s important to choose a high-quality product. Look for products that are organic and don’t contain any unwanted solvents or petrochemicals. You should also avoid using neem oil during extreme temperatures, as it can stress plants. You can also use it in conjunction with other pest control methods, such as baits and traps. Whether you’re using neem oil as a spray or drench, you should reapply it every seven days until you see the results you’re looking for.
Essential Oils
If you clean your home regularly, set traps, seal cracks in the walls, and still find yourself dealing with pest infestations then it may be time to try something new. Essential oils are a natural way to repel pests without using toxic chemicals. They’re extracted from the leaves, stems, flowers, or bark of a plant and contain all aspects of that plant’s smell and chemical properties. They’ve been used in aromatherapy and have become popularized by DIY beauty products, but they can also be incredibly effective at repelling insects.
Studies have found that certain essential oil compounds can be effective against urban pests including ants, termites, and cockroaches. These compounds can be less toxic than synthetic insecticides and can be used with fewer environmental concerns. Some universities recently published a review of the effectiveness of essential oils as an alternative to synthetic insecticides. They found that many essential oil compounds exhibit repellent or insecticidal activity against urban pests including ants, termites, roaches, and fleas.
The researchers discovered that some of the most effective compounds include eugenol (found in clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon), carvacrol (found in oregano, basil, and mint), and trans-cinnamaldehyde (found in cinnamon). Compared to current fumigants, these natural alternatives are safer for people, pets, and the environment.
Thyme is another effective plant-based pest control. The thymol in this powerful essential oil has fungicidal properties that help to prevent mold growth and prevent spore germination. It’s also an endocrine disruptor, which means it interferes with the hormones of pests, inhibiting their egg-laying and shortening their lifespans.
To get the most bang for your buck, use a combination of oils to target specific pests in your home. For ants and spiders, peppermint, lavender, and citronella are great options. You can also try a blend of these along with rosemary, garlic oil, and cedarwood to get rid of centipedes in the garden. A dilution of these can be sprayed around doors, and windows, small cracks in the walls, and heat vents to repel these pests.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring substance that has many uses, including in agriculture, water filtration, and pest control. It is a soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that can be ground into a fine powder or granules. It is used in a wide range of household and gardening products because of its anti-static properties and ability to absorb and hold moisture. It is safe for humans, pets, and plants if used as directed. However, if inhaled in large quantities or for long periods, it can be harmful to respiratory health. This is especially true for people who work in the mining, processing, or spreading of DE.
It works by scratching the exterior of insects, causing them to dehydrate. This is why it is a great alternative to chemical pesticides that can be dangerous for pets and children. It is also effective at deterring rodents and other pests because it smells unpleasant to them. Sprinkle a thin layer of DE along the edges of your garden or around your home to keep them away.
DE can be a great way to get rid of bed bugs, fleas, ants, weevils, and other pests that like to invade our homes. It can be mixed with a bit of citrus or peppermint oil to make a natural insecticide. This can be sprayed or dusted around the perimeter of your home and near any entry points where pests may enter, such as doors, windows, and vents. It can also be sprayed inside of your cabinets where pests can hide, or around the baseboards.
There are two types of DE available, food-grade and pool-grade. The food grade is uncalcined and has a very fine particle size with a low level of crystalline silica. The pool grade is calcined and has a much higher level of crystalline silica. The food grade is typically recommended for use in pest control because it is less hazardous to handle and breathe.
Be sure to wear a dust mask and eye protection when using it indoors to avoid breathing in the dust. It can also be very messy and requires frequent application. It is best to use it in conjunction with other methods of pest control, such as removing any items that can attract them and making your home as unwelcoming as possible.
Sticky Traps
Sticky traps, also known as glue traps or pheromone traps, are simple to use and can be very effective in controlling pests. They work by attracting insects and rodents with their specific color and then trapping them on the adhesive surface. These traps are ideal for use around homes, gardens, and greenhouses as they do not require any chemicals to be set. The traps are also very easy to clean and safe for use around children, pets, livestock, and other sensitive wildlife.
Unlike other traps that may target specific pests, sticky traps will capture all insects in their path, including beneficial insects like honeybees, spiders, and ladybugs. Because of this, they should only be used as a supplement to other traps and should never be placed near plants that need pollination or in any way disturbed. Sticky traps should also be used with caution outdoors because they can also catch and kill beneficial wildlife such as lizards, snakes, and squirrels.
The most common type of sticky trap is a bright yellow card, usually 3 x 5 inches or larger, that is covered on both sides with sticky material. Several types of sticky trap materials are available, and most are reusable after being washed in soapy water. Trap catches can be a useful monitoring tool in conjunction with visual inspection of plants, and comparisons of different traps on the same day can help determine relative insect abundance in the field.
For a greener home, there are also pheromone traps that use a special shade of green to attract insects such as thrips and aphids on vegetables and fruit crops, and hoppers and grasshoppers in legumes and citrus. The traps are also reusable after being washed in soapy waters and can be placed on the soil surface to intercept crawling pests.
Another advantage of using sticky traps is that they are a good option for organic gardeners and farmers. Because they do not contain any poisons, the traps can be used safely in food production areas and in greenhouses where chemicals are either prohibited or discouraged.