HOW TO GET RID OF SUMMER PESTS: A GUIDE FOR KWAZULU-NATAL HOMEOWNERS

Summer in KwaZulu-Natal brings sunshine, beach days, and braais - but it also welcomes a host of unwelcome guests in the form of pests. From relentless mosquitoes to sneaky cockroaches, dealing with these critters is essential for a comfortable home. Here's how to keep them at bay.

1. Mosquitoes: The Buzzing Menace

With the region's humidity and summer rains, mosquitoes thrive, making evenings outdoors unbearable. Here's how to fight back:

• Eliminate Standing Water - Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so regularly empty pots, buckets, and birdbaths.
• Use Natural Repellents - Citronella candles, essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus), and mosquito coils can help deter them.
• Install Screens & Nets - Window screens and mosquito nets around beds create a protective barrier.
• Call in the Pros - If mosquitoes are persistent, professional pest control can apply safe treatments to reduce their numbers.

2. Cockroaches: The Unwanted House Guests

Roaches thrive in warm, damp conditions, making KZN homes an ideal breeding ground. Keep them out with these tips:

• Keep It Clean - Crumbs and spills attract roaches, so wipe surfaces and vacuum regularly.
• Seal Entry Points - Check for cracks in walls and gaps under doors, sealing them to prevent entry.
• Use Roach Baits & Traps - Gel baits and sticky traps can be effective in reducing their population.
• Consider Eco-Friendly Solutions - According to Lisa Ribbink of Natal Pest Services, eco-friendly chemical sprays can effectively eliminate cockroaches and prevent future infestations. Keeping drains clean and free of debris is also essential for long-term pest control.
• Professional Help - If the infestation persists, fumigation might be necessary. Consulting pest control specialists, such as Natal Pest Services, can provide expert advice tailored to your needs.

3. Ants: The Persistent Invaders

Ants love summer, and once they find a food source, they won't leave without a fight.

• Store Food Properly - Keep food in sealed containers and wipe down counters regularly.
• Disrupt Their Trails - Vinegar and lemon juice erase their scent trails, making it harder for them to navigate.
• Use Ant Bait Stations - These work by luring ants to take poison back to their colony, eliminating them at the source.
• Address Water Sources - Ants need water to survive, so fix leaky pipes and remove standing water, which can attract them.

4. Termites: The Silent Destroyers

KZN's warm, humid climate makes wooden structures vulnerable to termites.

• Check for Signs of Damage - Mud tubes, hollowed wood, and discarded wings are telltale signs.
• Keep Wood Away from the House - Firewood and untreated timber near your home can attract termites.
• Get a Professional Inspection - Regular termite inspections can save you thousands in repairs.

5. Flies: The Summertime Nuisance

Flies breed rapidly in hot weather and are both annoying and unsanitary.

• Cover Food & Bins - Keep food covered and use bins with tight-fitting lids.
• Use Fly Screens - Install screens on doors and windows to keep flies outside.
• Homemade Remedies - A mixture of apple cider vinegar and dish soap in a bowl attracts and traps flies.
• Professional Solutions - Ribbink warns that flies can be challenging to control, but with an effective pest control strategy, they can be managed successfully. Pest control providers offer solutions such as chemical treatments, fly traps, sticky tape, and fly machines to keep them at bay.

Natal Pest Services

With over 40 years of experience in the pest control industry, Natal Pest Services offers the following advice to maintain a pest-free environment:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct annual inspections of your property, especially if it is over 30 years old, to detect early signs of wood-destroying insects such as woodborers and white ants. Early detection can prevent extensive and costly damage.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your premises clean and free from food debris to deter pests like cockroaches and rodents. Regular cleaning reduces the likelihood of infestations.
• Proper Waste Management: Dispose of garbage regularly and use sealed bins to prevent attracting pests. Proper waste management is crucial in controlling pest populations.
• Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks, crevices, and other potential entry points to prevent pests from entering your property. This proactive measure can significantly reduce infestations.
• Professional Assistance: Engage certified pest control services for routine inspections and treatments. Natal Pest Services, for instance, is registered with the Department of Agriculture and is a member of the South African Pest Control Association, ensuring adherence to industry standards.

By following these guidelines and seeking professional assistance, when necessary, you can effectively manage and prevent pest infestations, ensuring a safe and healthy environment.