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 Living in the Lowcountry, residents learn to adapt to the various kinds of pests invading yards and homes. Although these pests are sometimes unavoidable, keeping them under control is essential to enjoying our area. Fire ants, termites, and the infamous Palmetto Bug are pests commonly found in the Lowcountry. Most homeowners can tell you how fire ants once took over their backyards or how Palmetto Bugs always seem to find their way indoors. Knowledge of pest control options and prevention are essential in keeping your home free of creepy crawlies.
And while a little knowledge goes a long way, it’s important to remember what a huge investment your home is, and how devastating an infestation can get. One ant hill, for example, can be one branch of a larger nest. To be on the safe side, it’s always best to consult with professionals. They can fully inspect your property, treat the problem with professional care, and recommend ongoing treatments to prevent further insect infestations.
Some of the more common pests ‘bugging’ Lowcountry residents include Palmetto Bugs, fire ants and termites.
What is a Palmetto Bug?
Unless you reside in a warm climate, you may not be familiar with a Palmetto Bug. The name might sound pleasant but Palmetto Bugs are what most homeowners would describe as a nuisance. A Palmetto Bug is actually an American Cockroach with wings that grows up to 1 ½ inches in length. Of course, many Lowcountry residents would claim that they’ve seen Palmetto Bugs grow to much larger sizes. They’re most commonly found in warm, moist climates and are considered scavengers, because they will munch on most anything.
Although most consider Palmetto Bugs just an annoyance, they can bring infectious bacteria and allergens into the home. According to the Asthma Research at National Institute of Environmental Health Services, “recent studies have found a strong association between the presence of cockroaches and increases in the severity of asthma symptoms in individuals who are sensitive to cockroach allergens.”
There are several treatment options for cockroaches. Cockroach baits and traps can be purchased by homeowners or used by professionals for indoor and outdoor use. Many bait systems are odorless and can be used in multiple areas. Insect Growth Regulators, for example, don’t kill cockroaches but essentially stop the normal growth of immature cockroaches causing them to become sterile. Inorganic dusts are a powder that dehydrates the cockroach eventually killing it. Integrated Pest Management is a growing trend because it involves using safe, low toxic methods to control pests.
Fire ants have become one of the most commonly found pests in the southeast U.S. Fire ants can be found in a typical backyard by locating their mounds. Not only do they destroy yards, but their painful sting can cause death to those who are allergic. Fire ants will aggressively attack when their colony or mound has been disturbed.
There are products that homeowners can purchase, but improper treatment can actually cause fire ants to spread and multiply. Fire ant treatments can be in bait form or chemical treatments but to ensure prevention, monitoring and treatment by a professional is recommended. Entire yards should be treated to ensure that all fire ants are destroyed.
Termites:
It’s estimated that termites cause $5 billion a year in damage to homes. When termites infest a home, they cause structural damage and can destroy flooring, sheetrock, wallpaper, carpet, and even clothing and furniture. There are three types of termites: dampwood, drywood and subterranean. The subterranean termite lives in warm, moist environments and causes the most damage. Even if you don’t think your home has a termite problem, it’s important to get an inspection by a professional. The best way to protect your home from termites is by preventative treatments.
Baiting systems allows the termites to consume and share the bait with other termites, causing a gradual death of the colony. Soil liquid treatments are sprayed along the soil to prevent termites from getting into your home. Some professionals use both techniques to prevent and kill termites. Termite treatments are available that are odorless and tasteless, causing termites to easily ingest it and carry it to the colony. A growing trend is homebuilders using pre-construction termite treatments to prevent infestations.
Things you can do to supplement measures taken by professionals
Termites:
• One way to find out if you are having a problem with termites is to inspect the exterior of your home. Look for “mud tunnels” which termites use to access wood. Look for flying or swarming termites and inspect for sawdust and termite wings.
• Don’t pile firewood up against your home.
• Keep moisture away from foundations and repair leaks. Keep downspouts and gutters clean.
• Remove any tree stumps or debris near the home. Rotting wood is an invitation for termites.
Palmetto Bugs:
• Seal holes and cracks that cockroaches could use to enter your home.
• Weatherproof your windows and doors.
• Keep food tightly sealed. Keep a tight lid on the garbage.
• Do not leave out pet food bowls or dirty bowls.
Fire Ants:
• It is difficult to prevent fire ants from invading your backyard due to their rapid reproduction. The best way to get rid of fire ants is to buy a product that specifically states that it is for red fire ants.
• Seal all cracks and holes in and around your home and garage.
• Locate and treat all fire ant mounds.
• Fire ant bait that treats the entire yard can help prevent future ant infestations.
Remember, in most cases, calling a professional is the best way to ensure that bugs, critters and pests go away and stay away. Your local pest management professionals can help identify pest problems, work with you to determine the best course of pest control action – monthly, quarterly and annual treatment programs are often offered, and help prevent small problems from becoming serious infestations.
By working with a trained professional, you can enjoy pest-free living and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are protecting your home, and your family.
~Brooke Crichton
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