Pest Control Plans

Pest management can be a challenge, no matter how large or small your property may be or what types of pets or animals you keep. With a thoughtful pest control plan, however, you can keep everything from creepy-crawlies to furry guests to slithery visitors under control.

Control Instead of React

A good pest control plan is not just a response to an immediate problem or severe infestation, but takes proactive steps to prevent escalating difficulties with all types of possible pests. A thorough plan ensures less trouble in the long run, and keeps difficulties small and easily contained when they do arise. This will save money over time because there will be less need for stronger emergency treatments and destructive pests can be removed before they amass costly damage. Without severe reactions or the need for dramatic measures, your landscape, lawn, pasture, and fields will be healthier, and there will be less stress on pets and livestock.

Creating Your Pest Control Plan

There are many factors that must be considered when creating your pest control plan. No two plans are alike, and your pest control plan should be individualized for the size and condition of your property, local problematic pests, and your own needs. An effective plan should address all the following questions:

• What type of property must be protected? The overall size of the property as well as its use must be considered for effective pest control. Large, commercial agricultural acreage requires much different pest control than a suburban home or urban farmstead.
• What buildings are part of the property? A pest control plan should keep unwanted pests out of your home, as well as protect any garages, sheds, barns, silos, pumphouses, or other outbuildings. Basements and attics should also get special consideration for pest management.
• What local pests are most common? Even if the area’s most prominent pests aren’t yet appearing on your property, your pest control plan should include preventative measures to keep them away. From fleas and ticks to squirrels, grubs, and beetles, keep top local pests from feeling welcome.
• What potential pests are most destructive? A thorough pest control plan should also consider what local pests can be most destructive. Different types of termites or burrowing insects, for example, can cause extensive damage and require costly repairs if you don’t prevent them first.
• What animals need protection? If you have pets or livestock on your property, your pest control plan should include safe measures to protect those animals. Many unwanted pests can spread dangerous diseases, and protecting animals is essential for their well-being and profitability.
• How does the climate affect pests? An area with extended severe winters, long freezes, and deep snowfall will need much different pest control than an area with a mild climate that includes more moisture, heat, and humidity. Consider temperatures and rainfall when planning your pest management.
• How often are treatments required? Different pests may require control treatments of different frequencies. Some treatments may be annual, others seasonal, and some could even be monthly or only on an as-needed basis. Understanding when treatments are applied can help you plan for them effectively.
• What plants need to be protected from pests? Some landscaping plants, flowerbeds, fruit trees, or commercial crops may be more susceptible than others to certain pests. Including plant protection in your pest control plan can keep all your plants looking and producing their best.
• Will pests become resistant to different treatments? Over time, some pests can become resistant to chemical treatments. Be sure your pest control plan rotates treatment options to prevent that resistance and maintain effective management at all times.
• What options are in my budget? No matter how comprehensive your pest control plan, you want to be sure it will be within your budget. Consider payment plans or other financing options if necessary, or ask about alternative treatments that may be more cost-effective for your budget.

Working With Your Pest Control Plan

No matter how thorough your pest control plan may be, it is essential that you work with your plan throughout the year to make the most of it. First, stay alert to the possibility of pests on your property, and take immediate steps to manage and control them if they appear. Take additional steps that can help with particularly bothersome pests as well, such as…

• Mowing the lawn shorter and trimming bushes to help minimize ticks
• Planting deer-resistant flowers and shrubbery to discourage deer
• Blocking holes in walls or chimneys that squirrels might get through
• Attracting backyard owls to help control mice and other rodents
• Installing bat houses or purple martin houses for natural insect control

No matter what pests might be found in your area, there are easy steps you can take to help control them. Different steps, when part of your overall pest control plan, can be very effective at keeping your property pest-free throughout the year.