The best way to treat termites is to deter them in the first place. Once they have entered your home, it is expensive and difficult to get rid of them, but there are ways you can deter them from your yard and keep them from your home. For example, planting some plants or herbs that deter them, avoiding overwatering your plants and yard, ensuring any dead or rotting wood is removed, and storing any wood properly.
Plants that Deter Termites
Several plants have been shown to deter termites and can be easily planted in gardens and around the home. Catnip will deter termites and other pests, though it will attract all the local cats to your yard. Mint also deters many pests, including spiders, ants, termites, and mice, due to the strong scent that they find bothersome and will stay away from them. For double-duty pest control, planting garlic not only provides you with additional flavouring for your cooking but will also prevent termites and other pests. For one that will brighten the area and add colour, marigolds can be used and will repel termites.
Don’t Overwater
Termites build their homes in areas that have access to moisture and extra water, so avoid overwatering your yard and lawn to keep the risk of termites down.
Remove Dead or Rotting Wood
When there has been excessive rain or overwatering occurs, there will often be rotting wood of some form in the yard. Broken fence boards, decorations, and any stored firewood that has become wet and begun to rot will provide a perfect home for termites. It is important to remove it as soon as it is noticed and disposed of appropriately. The longer the damaged wood, dead tree branches, or rotting fence boards are left in the yard, the higher the risk of a termite infestation.
Store Wood Properly
Store all wood, including firewood, in the best way possible. It is preferable to store firewood and wooden furniture inside garages or sheds, to protect it from the elements as well as to deter termite infestations. This will keep it dry year round and make it harder for pests and termites to reach it.
Other Preventative Measures
If you are uncertain that these will work effectively or if you cannot properly protect all of the wood in the area, other actions can be taken to reduce the chance of termites. Check your yard regularly and the outside of the home where wood is present to ensure any changes are noticed quickly and can be treated by Dentec termite control. Using bait stations around the yard can catch them before they become a problem as well. Repair any broken seals, problems and holes in the roof or other areas of the home, and keep all plants and trees well-trimmed and away from home. By using these measures to create an unwelcoming environment you will be less likely to find termites in your yard or home.
