Just Say, “Pyrethrum”

May 20th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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Nothing spoils a summer cookout faster than mosquitoes swarming around guests, making them slap their necks and start to scratch. For that matter, nothing spoils a good night’s sleep in summer than a mosquito you can’t see, buzzing loudly around your head. All night. 

Early in the season, when the pesky critters start to show up, you say to yourself, “These blasted things have got to go!” And who do you call? Why, your local neighborhood mosquito control company, that’s who. And when you do call, the voice at the other end of the line is likely to mention pyrethrum, or pyrethrins. 

Pyrethrum? 

Strictly defined, pyrethrum is an extract of the flower head of a type of chrysanthemum, chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium. The active ingredients within the pyrethrum, the ingredients with insecticidal qualities, are called pyrethrins. 

Pyrethrins are a natural, organic form of pest control, offering a great alternative to harmful pesticides and man made chemicals. They work by attacking the central nervous system of insects such as mosquitoes, killing them and rendering them unable to bite humans. 

Pyrethrins have been used as a pesticide for more than 150 years, so they have been widely tested for safety and toxicity. Pyrethrins do not last long in the environment; they break down quickly in UV light and warm temperatures. In small amounts, they also won’t harm most plants or most animals, including birds and family pets or farm animals.

But there is some criticism of this natural pesticide. For one, pyrethrins are considered toxic to fish, so ponds and lakes should be avoided. Some organic gardeners also maintain that pyrethrins kill off not just mosquitoes, but may harm some beneficial insects as well.

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How to Keep Your Yard Free of Mosquitos

April 25th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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When most people think of controlling the mosquitoes in their yard, they usually think of individual spray cans, hand held foggers. If considering a professional, they probably think of a periodic spraying of all their foliage. But, today’s pest control company may have the ability to design and engineer an insect spray system equipped with automatic timers. In addition to being automatic, today’s spray systems can come with override features for periodic “misting” as per the owner’s perceived need. Because an automated misting system is cyclically structured and continued on an ongoing basis, it is truly the best defense against mosquitoes and other unwanted insects.

Most spray systems come in various sizes to meet the individual needs of your outdoor space. Some systems contain back-up battery timers in the event of a power failure. Remote controls can also be an advantage for overriding the preset cycles with occasional misting. Generally, much like lawn irrigation systems, automated mosquito control systems are comprised of components (such as stainless steel) that are less prone to wear from prolonged weather exposure; thus, preserving the system from the elements.  Further care is taken to ensure values that don’t drip (due to the sensitive nature of insecticide), as well as appropriately angled spray nozzles, and shut off values. The flow rate of the automated mosquito spray is precisely controlled.

You should expect a two-year warranty on all parts and labor. Some companies may even offer a 100%  money-back guarantee if you are  not satisfied with their system. Automated mosquito control systems are definitely designed with the consumer in mind because they are dependable and reliable with ease of operation. Call your local pest control company today and get back out into your yard to enjoy summer!

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Safe and Reliable Mosquito Control

April 25th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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Yes, there are actually companies that specialize in mosquito control! Today, you can have a custom designed insect control system installed and maintained at your home or business that is automatic. These automated misting systems will help to eliminate hundreds of types of biting insects including mosquitoes, while using the safest and most effective insecticide available.

Spring and summer are on their way. Which means, now is the time that you, your family, and friends will want to begin enjoying the great outdoors without swatting or slapping away nature’s most irritating pests. You don’t have to worry about what bugs may be biting you or your children while out in your yard. You can obtain the pleasure you expect from your yard, deck or pool without the need for smelly, sticky or greasy insect repellant. No longer do you need to remember your outdoor fun with itching and scratching,

Most systems today will not harm humans or pets because they use natural, fast acting insecticides, specifically designed to be lethal to insects but safe for you and other mammals.  Furthermore, installing a mosquito control system is more cost effective than screening in your back porch. Screening in your porch or patio will cost much more that keeping mosquitoes effectively out of your entire yard with a mosquito control system.

Make sure that your local mosquito control company offers an extended guarantee. With the right materials and experienced technicians, you should be able to count on your system to  provide you with reliable service for years.  Don’t let bugs and pests control your summer yard enjoyment; call your local mosquito control company for a bug free yard.

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Types of Mosquito Misting Systems

February 28th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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A mosquito misting system, sometimes referred to as an automated misting system, is a landscape installation used on residential or commercial properties to mechanically deliver pesticide to flower beds, lawns, or other target areas. These systems work through spray application, whereby nozzles placed around the premises are digitally programmed to release a fine mist of pesticide formula at preset intervals. The pesticide is sent to the nozzles from a pump through tubing.

Automated misting systems come in a variety of brands and models and there are three main differences between the systems currently available on the market.

1)      Tankless vs drum-based

Traditionally, mosquito misting systems have been drum-based. Drum-based systems have a tank (a drum) that must be filled with pesticide formula. A typical drum might hold 55 gallons of pesticide formula and has to be refilled a couple of times per year. Each fresh batch of pesticide formula has to be manually mixed beforehand. Newer, tankless systems use snap-in refill cartridges and the unit automatically mixes the precise dose of misting formula for you. Tankless systems cost a few hundred dollars more than drum-based systems; however, compared to drum-based systems, they use an average of 40% less pesticide per year saving you money in the long-run.

2)      Stationary vs portable

Some automated misting systems are portable, which others require fixed installation.  With portable systems, the misting unit is self-contained, lightweight, and battery-operated so it can be easily transported to different sites. Portable systems save time and money since there is no need to run tubing or install nozzles or risers. With stationary systems on the other hand, the master unit (the pump) is heavier and larger, and tubing and nozzles have to be installed. The unit is also electric-powered so it must remain close to an electric socket.

3)      Battery-powered vs motor-powered vs electric-powered

With electric-powered mosquito misting systems, the pump needs to be plugged into an electric outlet. Battery-operated and motor-powered systems on the other hand do not require an electric outlet.

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Four Solutions for a Mosquito-free Yard

February 28th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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Mosquitoes are among the most annoying of garden pests. They deliver vicious bites without the slightest provocation, and destroy the peace and quiet of your backyard with their annoying buzz. Mosquitoes are also dangerous pests. They transmit numerous infectious diseases like West Nile Virus, Malaria, Yellow Fever, and Elephantiasis. Moreover, mosquito bites can cause allergic reactions ranging from red, itchy, localized swelling, to anaphylactic shock which can be life-threatening.

Clearly mosquitoes are uninvited guests and any self-respecting homeowner will want to rid their yard of these troublesome insects. Here are 5 helpful tips to combat mosquitoes in your yard.

1)      Citronella oil

Burning citronella oil is a proven method for keeping mosquitoes at bay. Popular citronella products include outdoor citronella candles and citronella garden torches which can be mounted around the perimeter of the yard. These can be purchased online or from your local home improvement center.

2)      Pesticides

Permethrin , Scourge, Malathion, and Anvil are common synthetic pesticides used for mosquito control. Natural pesticides such as Pyrethrin and Bacillus thuringensis (BTI) also do a good job of destroying mosquitoes. Bacillus thuringensis (BTI), commonly known as “mosquito dunks”, is a natural soil bacterium that can be placed around your yard. Mosquitoes feed on the BTI which kills them within days. You can also consider installing an automated misting system which sprays your yard with pesticide at intervals throughout the day.

3)      Water control

Treat or drain all sources of standing water in your yard. Flower pots, plant saucers, dog bowls, and blow-up pools should be overturned if possible or regularly emptied of any stagnant water. Even objects like kids’ toys or old tires can collect water. Refill birth baths and water fountains frequently to keep the water fresh, and keep gutters clean so that water does not accumulate in them. Other moisture-retaining culprits are loose tarpaulin, uneven lawns, and organic debris such as leaves and sticks.

4)      Mosquito predators

Certain animals, like toads, guppies, and gold fish prey on mosquitoes. If you have a garden pond, having these animals in or near your pond can help control the mosquito population in your yard.

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Automated Misting Systems Explained

February 13th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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An automated misting system, also known as a mosquito misting system, is a pest control solution whereby pesticide is automatically sprayed onto an insect-infested area through self-operating nozzles at specific times of the day. A typical automated misting system includes things like timers, spray nozzles, tubing, a control board, a remote control, and a pump. These systems allow homeowners and commercial property owners alike to eliminate or significantly reduce the population of irritating mosquitoes, flies, and other insect pests on their premises.

Types of automated misting systems

There are a wide range of automated misting systems currently available on the market. You can choose from battery-powered, motor-powered, and electric-powered models. You can also decide if you want a drum-based or tankless system. Some systems require fixed installation, while others are portable. The prices of these systems vary, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.

Installation

Installing an automated misting system is usually a straightforward process that you can do yourself. There are also pest control companies that install these systems on commercial and residential proprieties.  Setting up the system involves placing the spray nozzles around the perimeter of your property and running the mist lines (tubing that supplies the mist formula to the nozzles) along fence lines or under eaves.

Benefits

Automated misting systems have many benefits. They eliminate the grunt work of having to walk around a property and apply pesticide manually. They also make pesticide delivery more precise and consistent. Moreover, they require minimal maintenance. Most systems use a natural pesticide called pyrethrin. Pyrethrin is a highly effective pesticide that has low toxicity in human and mammals. This allows you to use your automated misting system safely without worrying about pollution and adverse effects to your family or employees.

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Three Ways to Automate Your Yard

February 13th, 2013 Posted in Insect Control
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These days, we hear a lot of talk about home automation for the interior of the house, but what about the backyard? Back and front yards require a lot of maintenance to keep them presentable year–round and comfortable to be in. While some people enjoy do-it-yourself garden work, for many, convenient automated devices can take the grunt work out of backyard upkeep. Automation can also add a new level of comfort and efficiency to your backyard experience. Here are five ideas for automating your backyard.

1)      Automated pest control

Consider adding an automated misting system to curb annoying mosquitoes and other insect pests. With these systems, unobtrusive misting nozzles are placed around the perimeter of the yard. The nozzles are programmed to release controlled amounts of pesticide at intervals throughout the day.

2)      Automated water displays

A water fountain can be a soothing, magical feature of any yard, but if the level of water in the fountain is not carefully and consistently regulated, the fountain can go dry and end up being a receptacle for twigs and bird droppings.  Many people find it a hassle to remember to manually fill their fountain or turn on the fountain pump. With automated water displays, the system can be programmed so that the pump turns on and off by itself at specific times of the day. The pump can also be turned on via a switch or remote control.

3)      Automated backyard lighting

Outdoor lighting serves a number of functional, safety, and aesthetic purposes, from increasing visibility on decks, walkways, and patios, to illuminating dark corners of a yard, to highlighting attractive features like a pond or garden statue. Automated outdoor lighting control provides an easy way to control different lights in your yard depending on the mood you want to set, the time of night, or the conditions in your yard. These systems allow for instant scene control in your backyard with the flip of a switch or via dimmers. Lights can also be programmed to turn off or shine with less intensity throughout the course of the night.

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Pyrethrum: The Healthy, Green Insecticide

December 20th, 2012 Posted in Insect Control
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There is much evidence to suggest that eco-friendly lifestyles and “green” practices have significant positive effects on the environment and on human health and well-being. If you want to play a role in safeguarding the future of our planet and the health of your loved ones, a good place to start is by considering the type of insecticide you use in your own backyard.

Inorganic and synthetic insecticides have long been controversial owing to their harmful effects on human health, as well as their role in polluting and destroying the environment. Some of the most common over-the-counter insecticides contain heavy metals, arsenates, lindane, atrazine, DDT and other chemicals that are toxic to living organisms.

If you are using inorganic or synthetic insecticides in your garden, then you are exposing your family and pets to chemicals that are known to disrupt the human endocrine system and that have been linked to cancer, neurological diseases, birth defects, infertility, developmental disorders, and skin conditions in humans as well as animals. You may be also damaging the eco-system of your garden by killing off essential soil micro-organisms. Moreover, when it rains, runoff from your garden lawn or flower beds means that the chemicals can find their way into nearby water systems, contaminating human water supplies and poisoning local wildlife. 

Pyrethrum is a natural, biodegradable insecticide that offers a safe pest-fighting alternative to all the toxic products on the market. A botanical insecticide, it is extracted from chrysanthemum flowers and has a drastically lower avian and mammalian toxicity compared to other insecticides. Pyrethrum contains natural organic compounds called pyrethrins which, when ingested by birds and mammals, are quickly and harmlessly metabolized by their bodies. Pyrethrins are also easily degraded by soil microorganisms. Insects, on the other hand, are instantly paralyzed by pyrethrum making it a very fast-acting natural insecticide.

Pyrethrum does have a few pitfalls. It can cause allergic reactions in some individuals and may not be as well tolerated by cats as other mammals. Generally speaking however, pyrethrum is arguably the most environmentally-safe and health-friendly pest-control option on the market today.

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Automated Misting Systems Help Eliminate Garden Pests

December 20th, 2012 Posted in Insect Control
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There are few things more satisfying than a healthy, thriving garden or yard. From holding outdoor events, to sunbathing on a lawn chair, a peaceful, attractive yard is a great asset and one that should not be taken for granted. That is why the first sign of outdoor pests in a garden or yard is always cause for concern.

Insect pests such as aphids and ladybugs can propagate quickly, damaging foliage, and reversing months of garden maintenance in no time at all. Flying and biting insects like mosquitoes and bees are a nuisance and can cause serious allergic reactions in some people, while insects like stink bugs will enter homes through door cracks and windows bringing their unpleasant odor with them. Without prompt and effective action, insect pests can significantly reduce the quality of your home life and cost you a fine penny in the long-run.

Automated misting systems are a smart, cost-effective solution for dealing with bug infestations.  Automated misting systems work by automatically spraying a precise dose of pesticide on garden lawns and shrubs at regular intervals. The units work in any weather and can be used with both synthetic and natural pesticides. They are easy to install and are equally well-suited for residential and commercial landscapes. Misting nozzles are placed in strategic locations on the property and blend in perfectly with the landscape, while the inconspicuous supply lines are run along fences or eaves, or buried in the ground along the perimeter of the grounds.

Automated misting systems eliminate the need for time-consuming manual applications of pesticide. Most systems also come with a remote control so that the spray nozzles can be activated at any time. Some misting units have sensors that respond to sunlight and others adjust the misting action depending on wind conditions. Automated misting systems have a long operating life and are easy to maintain. The misting nozzles need to be cleaned periodically with a cleaning solution, but otherwise, these convenient, user-friendly devices really do take the “pest” out of pest control.

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Mosquito Control

June 8th, 2012 Posted in Insect Control
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Consider this scenario – It’s a wonderful spring evening and you are entertaining friends and family on your outdoor patio, but just as the evening is getting started, the mosquitoes start swarming and drive everyone indoors.

If you want avoid ruined weekend get-together, you will need to know how to control mosquitoes in your yard and lawn.

First and foremost, eliminate breeding areas for mosquitoes. Water is the only breeding requirement for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes need stagnant water for laying their eggs so you need to find any pools of water and remove them. These can be anywhere that a small puddle of water can form including children’s play areas, birdbaths, and so on.

Remember following points to control mosquitoes in your lawn:

#1: Check your drainage system. See if there is any breakage or leakage and subsequently small puddles are formed close to leaking points. Repair the damaged points.

#2: Water can accumulate in garbage cans. Drill holes in the bottom of garbage containers so water does not accumulate.  Make sure the water has somewhere drain and doesn’t simply puddle under the garbage can.

#3: When you are going to be away from home for vacations or for work, make sure your pool is properly treated with chlorine.  Arrange for a pool service to keep the pool chlorinated or use an automatic chlorinator.

#4:  Check your yard for low areas that accumulate standing water.  Have your landscaper grade these areas or install french drains to keep your yard dry.

#5: Do not over water potted plants.  Remove old tires, cans, and other debris from the yard that can hold water.

Finally, consider installing an automated misting system to control mosquitoes.  These systems use safe, natural pesticides that are automatically released at timed intervals to kill mosquitoes and break the mosquito life cycle.

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