The best pest control is exclusion. Sealing all cracks in structure where insects and other pests may enter the home is very important. A regular perimeter insecticide application on foundation and soil around perimeter of home also tends to keep insect pests and their predators at bay. A residual insecticide spray can be used along baseboards and door thresholds and windowsills.
Spiders tend to congregate where they find other pests upon which to feed. Elimination of their food source will tend to send them off in search of other food sources or they starve to death.
Practicing good sanitation will eliminate food sources for ants. Keep counters and floors clean and do not leave out pet food dishes. Insecticide sprays will kill live ants, but have no effect on those back in the colony. Thus, baits are recommended. With time, persistence, and patience, you can usually eventually wipe out ant colonies with baits.
Asian lady beetles and box elder bugs are best vacuumed up once found indoors. Asian lady beetle infestation has been a common complaint the past few years. They are particularly attracted to the south and western sides of wood-sided structures. Sealing around doors, windows, soffit and fascia, and along bottom of wood siding offers exclusion. They tend to seek shelter to over winter. When warm temperatures return, they swarm, seeking a way outdoors. Unfortunately, they find their way inside your home. Residual insecticide treatments may be effective on the sides of structures.
Effective residential pest control requires and integrated pest management program. This involves sealing home for exclusion and interior and exterior pesticide and insecticide treatments.
In addition, addressing moisture issues around the structure will tend to eliminate wet and damp environments that attract many insects. Keep gutters and downspouts clear so they can carry away excess rainwater. Make sure soil around home is sloped to carry away excess water. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from home to provide adequate ventilation and to eliminate environments attractive to insects.
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