Termites are well-known for the destruction they cause to wood buildings. The pest feeds on wood and wood products and is found throughout the United States. They are a significant part of the damage caused to wood and more specifically, homes.
Homeowners who have a termite infestation problem will notice darkened areas of wood or blistering and soft spots that may crumble when even a small amount of pressure is applied to the damaged area.
Termites are often mistaken for ants due to their similarities. They are small insects that can be black, tan, or white. They have straight antennae, two pairs of wings, and a broad abdomen.
Termites live in colonies that bear similar traits to an ant colony. The colony is made up of workers, soldiers, and kings and queens who reproduce future generations.
Colonies are created in spring and fall when winged males and females who are fertile leave their old nest. The termites then shed their wings to reproduce and build a new nest near wood sources and ground that is moist.
Female queens lay their eggs in the new nest, which hatch anywhere from 2 weeks to several months. Nymphs emerge and grow to become workers or soldiers for the colonies while a select few become reproductive kings and queens once the colony is full.
Controlling termites without harsh pesticides is a must for many homeowners and so much better for the environment.
For natural termite control begin by discouraging the pests by keeping wood sources off the ground. If possible, raise wooden structures at least 8 inches above the soil and 2 inches away from posts and foundation.
Moisture is a must for termites. Keep the soil dry near foundations to discourage the pests from building a nest by repairing or replacing downspouts, gutters, and any outside faucets that leak.
Store firewood and other wood products away from the foundation to prevent termites from entering your home's structure.
Finally, introduce beneficial nematodes in the soil near wooden structures and anywhere you discover a termite nest. The beneficial parasites seek out and destroy termites.
