When you have a pest problem it can be overwhelming just deciding which option is best. Some may opt for DIY products, while others call a professional pest company to help with exterminating pests. There are “no-kill” options and many types of traps. It's important to know that some products are more effective and safer than others. 

With environmental concerns on the rise, here’s a little more about green options for exterminating pests.

The first thing that probably comes to mind when hearing about green options for pest control is natural plants and oils that are known to deter pests. There are many uses for plants like lavender and lemongrass, eucalyptus, and others in pest control products. You’ve probably seen them in mosquito deterrent sprays that are advertised as “all natural”. The good news is these do work to some extent when applied to your skin or clothing, and yard sprays that are natural can be effective at deterring pests, but some aren’t as effective at killing pests once they’ve invaded.

Pyrethrum is another commonly advertised pesticide. It’s the naturally derived form of pyrethrin, which, like boric acid, is deadly to insects, but has very low toxicity to humans and other mammals. Pyrethrum is extracted from chrysanthemum flowers; pyrethrin is common too but is created in a lab. Although each product has the same effect on insects — and presents the same risks to beneficial insects — pyrethrin usually is more potent and lasts longer. So using the natural form of the pesticide often entails applying it more often and more liberally.

Keep in mind, some products derived from natural sources aren’t any safer to humans, pets, wildlife and beneficial insects than their synthetic equivalents. Some natural products must be applied more liberally than synthetic ones to achieve similar results. 

Prevention is a big topic when it comes to pests. Most items you can buy such as pest deterring lights, traps and sonic sound are geared toward prevention rather than tackling a huge infestation. The easiest way to tackle a pest infestation is to prevent it in the first place. Many severe pest infestations including pests like roaches, ants and rodents, that most commonly invade homes and businesses, are for the most part preventable. Rodents can be effectively controlled by closing off entry points from the outside and placing traps in strategic locations. Humane traps are even available for relocating rodents. 

Small ant infestations can be controlled by caulking cracks and other access points and using soap and water to wash ants’ travel paths, erasing the scents they follow to food sources. Bedbug infestations often can be avoided too if you wash your clothes, sheets and blankets in very hot water. If you have traveled recently this is especially important since they often travel back home with you if you’ve been exposed.

Being proactive and tackling pests at their source, and eliminating items they need to live and reproduce will go a long way to prevent an infestation in the first place. No matter what type of pest you’re dealing with, a clean space makes it less inviting and makes it easier to spot a pest problem before it gets severe. So yes, these green options can help but the most effective approach is prevention and eliminating a severe infestation by being proactive.

Exterminating pests can be a frustrating process on your own. Depending on the type of pests, natural products can work, but with other pests professional help may be required. Don’t let the concern over using green options deter you from getting rid of pests. 

Contact Spence’s Pest Control to schedule a free inspection and find out how we can effectively exterminate your pest problems while having a minimal impact on the environment, and avoiding harm to beneficial insects or other critters. Professional pest technicians have precise tools for application and know what areas to target so minimal product is used while being very effective on unwanted pests.