New insect species make their way into the United States every year by hitching rides in shipping crates and on automobiles, clothing and shoes. They hide in produce, plants and firewood while they are transported to uninfested areas.
Upon arrival, invasive insects quickly begin to attack their new habitats, making themselves at home. Many different types of termites, beetles, carpenter ants and bees bore into trees and make themselves at home in wood structures, such as decks, play sets and patio furniture. Numerous varieties of caterpillars, moths and mites fashion meals out of plants, discoloring and deforming leaves and sometimes stripping foliage away completely.
“While it’s difficult to prevent invasive insects from making their way into your outdoor spaces, using an integrated pest management approach (IPM) can stop them from doing harm to your family and the environment,” says Aaron Hobbs, president of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) - a national organization representing manufacturers, formulators and distributors of pesticide products use around the home and yard.
IPM is a common sense approach to managing pests that combines property maintenance, watching pest populations and applying pesticides when necessary.
“Keeping outdoor spaces clean and tidy, without piles of wood or trash, will make them less attractive to invasive insects. When used properly as part of an overall IPM approach, pesticides are the most effective way to remove damaging pests from your property and provide protection from future infestations,” adds Hobbs.
“When selecting a pesticide product read the label to ensure you’ve got the right solution for your pest and location,” says Hobbs. “There are many products available for consumers to use when eliminating invasive insects from outdoor spaces. Consumers should remember to always read and follow all label directions.”
The globalization of markets and growth in both national and world travel raises the numbers of invasive insects finding new habitats in neighborhoods across the country. Following an integrated approach that uses registered pesticides is the best strategy to take back outdoor living areas and keep them pest-free so you can enjoy the summer.