July 31, 2007 – Preventive Pest Management: Summer Tips
In case you need a few more chores to do this summer, we have a list of suggestions to help reduce potential pest problems in your home or business.

Landscaping: Poorly planned or maintained landscaping often contributes to pest problems. The materials selected for weed barriers are also important. Plastic promotes ant activity by providing sheltered, hidden pockets for colonies and satellite nests. It may also hold and funnel moisture towards your foundation which not only erodes your foundation but promotes subterranean termite activity. Landscape fabrics are porous enough to let air and moisture through. Although fabrics may still promote ant activity, they are the better choice.

Organic wood mulch can also be an attractant to termites. Termites will eat any kind of wood, especially when you place it on the ground and water it. Pea gravel is an excellent alternative. Yes, it holds heat, which may impact your selection of plants; but high temperatures are unfriendly to insects. Because of its density, pea gravel is an unlikely place for insects to settle. In addition, when 2-3 inches deep, it is loose enough to resist rodent burrowing. Rodents typically avoid moving through areas where they are exposed.

Speaking of exposure, it is important to trim your shrubs so that 6-8 inches of the base stem is exposed. This assists in the elimination of rodent and wildlife invasion. Keeping shrubs neatly trimmed allows for more complete insecticide applications to the stem which will eliminate ants that may be feasting on plants. Keep all vegetation cut back at least 18 inches from the structure. Branches or limbs touching or overhanging your structure can be used for ant access. These trimming tips also make it easier to remove grass clippings and leaf debris. Plant selection is also important. Avoid fruiting plants that may attract any manner of pest.

Overgrown ditches, open septic systems, discarded tires, unused wading pools, clogged gutters, tree holes, trash receptacles, bird baths, pet watering bowls, flower pots, children's toys, and many other containers, are ideal to mosquitoes. Basically anything that can hold water is a potential mosquito breeding site and should be inspected and emptied on a regular basis. In the case of pet water bowls and bird baths, empty and fill with clean water twice a week.

Pest Proofing: Did you have any ladybird beetles, wasps, box elder bugs or cluster flies pay you a visit last winter? Now is the time to caulk around windows and door frames to keep out pests this fall. You should also inspect all screens (windows, doors and foundation vents) and seal up any gaps around utility penetrations, such as central air or gas lines.

If your summer is filled with trips to the beach or baseball games, Action Pest Control offers a variety of mosquito control and pest-proofing services which may suit your needs. Call us today for a free inspection: (812) 477-5546.