Pests control means keeping unwanted organisms away from crops, animals, people, or structures. This goal can be accomplished by prevention, suppression, or eradication. Pest control options include physical, biological, chemical and genetic methods.
The best approach to pests control depends on the if you have pests, its numbers, and conditions. Preventing pests is the most cost-effective strategy. It is also the safest for humans, pets, and other plants. It is important to understand pests, and learn about what they do, how they reproduce, where they live, and when they are most active. It is also necessary to know whether a pest population can be tolerated, and at what level damage is acceptable.
Some pests can be predicted with sufficient knowledge about their biology and ecology. For example, a pest may require specific environmental conditions to cause significant damage, such as certain diseases of plants. If these conditions are met, the pest can be controlled before damage occurs by altering the environment. Likewise, some pests are more likely to appear in an area when a food source is available.
Preventing pests involves eliminating their food sources, water, and shelter. It is important to remove garbage from outdoor areas regularly and store food in containers with tight lids. It is also important to keep compost piles away from the house and yard.
Physical methods of pest control involve barriers, nets, traps, and other devices that physically exclude or capture pests. These methods are most effective when a pest’s behavior can be observed, for example by trapping a pest along its regular route, or by blocking the pest’s access to something it needs. For example, fruit flies can be trapped by placing rotting produce in a plastic bottle with holes sized to fit the flies. Blocking the flies’ access to the rotting fruit stops them from laying eggs inside it.
Biological methods of pest control use living organisms to control pests, such as bacteria and viruses that attack and kill them. This can be a very effective method, especially in urban environments where there are few natural predators of the pests. This method is also the least toxic to humans and other plants, and can be used in conjunction with many other forms of pest control.
Genetic pest control uses the natural characteristics of the plant to reduce its number and/or damage, such as with resistance. This is generally the least expensive option, but may not be suitable in some situations.
Chemical pest control uses synthetic substances to eliminate undesirable organisms. Ideally, it should be used only when necessary and in accordance with all EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulations. These regulations ensure that the chemicals do not cause unnecessary harm to humans, pets, and other plants. Pesticides can be inhaled or ingested and may penetrate the skin. To protect against this, it is recommended that the user wear gloves and a mask when applying pesticides. The user should also read and follow the pesticide label’s instructions, warnings, and safety precautions.