When it comes to pest management in south Florida, doing nothing isn’t an option.

The frost-free climate and lush landscape that provide the background for our enviable lifestyle are also a naturally pest-friendly environment. Without proactive measures to control the influx of insects and vermin, your property and premises may be gradually overwhelmed and infestation may occur.

Prevention is always preferable to a quick fix. Although effective, long-term pest management isn’t a DIY project for amateurs, homeowners can take a limited number of non-chemical steps themselves to moderate the presence of undesirable pests.

Control Pests Without the Use of Specialized Chemicals

• Utilize specific pruning techniques that discourage infestations of plants. Altering watering and fertilization methods may reduce the pest population.
• Keep weeds under control by utilizing mulches or other ground coverings.
• Take direct action by removing weeds and other insect-harboring plants, spraying vegetation with strong streams of water to dislodge insects and using traps.
• Investigate green control methods such as introducing beneficial organisms that will counteract the presence of undesirable pests.
• Remove plant species that are perpetual pest magnets and replace them with pest-resistant varieties.

The most effective, specialized chemicals utilized by a pest control professional are unavailable to the average homeowner, as is the training to use these measures safely around your family and pets. Consumer-grade pest sprays available off the shelf can provide some benefit, mainly in limited, spot applications.

Take these common-sense precautions before you apply pesticides yourself:

• Read the label and make sure the pesticide is approved for the plant or site where you plan to utilize it.
• Never use pesticides approved for ornamental plants on plants intended for use as food.
• Pesticides labeled “for outdoor use” should never be applied indoors.
• Check the manufacturer’s label info for plant restrictions. Some pesticides will damage certain plants.

Broward and Palm Beach counties’ established pest control professional, Haggerty Pest Services brings 40 years’ experience to resolving homeowners’ issues. Schedule an appointment and let us evaluate your property for professional pest management services.

Image via Shutterstock.com