8 Tips for Garden Insect Control in Florida

Learn more about effective garden insect control.

Florida has gorgeous beaches, fantastic theme parks, and an amazing nightlife throughout much of the state. Unfortunately, no matter where you live or where you travel, you’ll be forced to deal with a wide array of insects. Several of the most annoying and damaging insects, from ants and aphids to flies and mosquitoes often exist within your garden. Today, we’re going to share eight of our favorite tips for proper garden insect control (including one for spiders).

Attract More Birds to Your Yard

Most people probably didn’t need to watch Pixar’s A Bug’s Life to realize what a threat birds are to insects. Very often, birds serve as nature’s own pest control. In fact, the world’s population of birds eats between 400 and 500 million tons of insects each year. If you want their help, consider putting out a bird bath for them to enjoy.

Sprinkle Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth is a common element of garden pest control used for a variety of insects such as fleas, ticks, ants, and cockroaches. It works by absorbing the oils and fats in a bug’s exoskeleton, which dries it out and kills them within approximately 24 hours. This is a natural, food-grade substance, which means that it isn’t dangerous to humans or pets.

Baking Soda and Vinegar for Ants

Ants can quickly get out of hand, which is why ant control is so important. You often need to tackle lines of these insects inside your home, but if you can find the ant hill where they originate from, you can rid yourself of the entire colony at once. What you want to do is sprinkle baking soda on the hill or mound and pour in distilled white vinegar. The chemical reaction will kill the ants.

Hang Up Sticky Fly Traps Outside

A single fly typically lays between 100 and 150 eggs, which means that you can quickly go from just a few of these annoying insects to a full-blown infestation. One of the most effective methods to get rid of them is by hanging up sticky fly traps. They’re attracted to the scent, but if you place a piece of cut fruit nearby, you’ll probably get faster results.

Remove Water to Avoid Mosquitos

Mosquito control is a hot topic in Florida, especially since these pesky insects can carry life-threatening diseases. Although many insects are attracted to standing water, these seem to be more common in certain areas. Remove water from your outside your home to deter them.

Allow Ladybugs to Thrive

In case you somehow weren’t aware, ladybugs are extremely useful as a part of garden pest control. They feed on aphids, garden mites, mealybugs, and other insects that destroy plants. Plus, they won’t try to contaminate your food supply, nor do they carry disease.

Treat Spiders with Respect

Spiders may look creepy, but they’re also effective as part of your garden pest control routine. If you find one in your home, take it outside or find someone to do it for you. As long as you’re not experiencing an infestation where they’re out of control, it’s best to have them around. The exception for many people would be black widows, especially if you have kids or pets who might get too curious for their own good.

Quickly Remove Wasp Nests

Wasps can present a true threat to adults, children, and even pets. If you find a wasp nest on your property, you need to remove it as quickly as possible. Although there are some do-it-yourself methods, it’s always advisable that you call on the help of a professional exterminator.

ProHealth Will Help You with Effective Garden Insect Control in Clearwater

Residential and commercial pest control are absolutely essential in the state of Florida. ProHealth provides organic pest control in Clearwater that helps with garden insect control, indoor pest control, and other services. If you have any questions or like a free estimate, call (727) 308-2543 today.