Termite infestations result in serious damage.
Termites are pests that thrive when there is poor ventilation, low light and lots of wood. Unfortunately for homeowners, termite infestations result in billions of dollars of damage nationwide every year. While chemicals and poisons used to be the only way to kill or get rid of termites, there are now a number of organic or natural ways to remove them as well. Does this Spark an idea?
Boric Acid
Boric acid is a naturally-occurring chemical found in many places around the world, including the Mojave Desert. Boric acid kills the digestive protozoa in termites' stomachs and basically starves the insects to death. Soak wood planks in a mixture of boric acid and water, then bury them in the ground around the infested building. Bury extra planks near areas of suspected colonies.
Orange Oil
Orange oil is another natural poison to termites. Orange oil is produced from the glands inside the rind of an orange. The main chemical is D-limonene, which is a natural insecticide but has a very low toxicity rate for mammals. Due to orange oil's tendency to rapidly lose effectiveness, it's effectiveness as a sole termite control solution has been called into question. However, orange oil will kill termites on contact and can be highly effective when used in conjunction with other termite control solutions.
Beneficial Nematodes
Not all termites live in wood. Several types live in soil underground, and can be a serious nuisance for gardeners. Beneficial nematodes are small, round worms that feed on termites, grubs and other larvae. Available for purchase at many gardening stores, refrigerate the nematodes until early morning or evening, then spread them over the infested area. Apply water immediately to both work the nematodes into the soil and remove them from sunlight. Fewer termites can start to be seen as early as two to three weeks later.
Tags: Boric acid, infestations result, kill termites, remove them, termite control
