Taking care of the environment is a group effort. When everyone does his or her part, small acts combine to make a big change. One way everyone can take part in helping to keep the environment clean and free from toxins is to use eco-friendly pest control methods when you need to get rid of insects, rodents and other household pests. Here are some great benefits you will get when choosing eco-friendly pest control.
The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Pest Control
Better Results
Eco-friendly pest control methods are normally more effective than using chemicals or other toxins. Further, the results last much longer, as well. Over time, insects can build up a resistance to chemical-based methods of extermination, and the resistance can be passed down to offspring However, when eco-friendly methods are used, insects do not build up the same resistance, so the results last over long periods of time.
It is Better for Your Landscaping
Landscaping is not inexpensive so it is in your best financial interest to avoid using anything that can damage it. That includes chemical-based pesticides. Traditional pest control methods require reapplication frequently. Over time, the repeated exposure to chemicals can take a toll on your landscaping and make your yard look terrible. By their nature, eco-friendly pest control methods are designed to be gentle on your landscaping. You can often use as much eco-friendly methods as much or often as you need to without having to worry about damage to your yard and landscaping elements.
No Unpleasant Odor
One of the worst aspects of traditional pest control methods is the foul smell that comes along with them. When you use eco-friendly methods, that issue is completely eliminated. Since there are no chemicals used in eco-friendly pest elimination methods, you won't have to worry about the noxious odors that linger long after an application.
Safe for Kids
If you have kids at home, then you really need to consider using eco-friendly pest control methods. Traditional methods that are chemical-based can be harmful to children if they are exposed to them. Children love to play outside and explore the environment around them. If you have recently sprayed for pests with a traditional pest removal method, there is a good chance your kids can breathe in the chemicals or touch a surface that has been sprayed and then put their fingers in their mouths. Using an eco-friendly method to get rid of your pests eliminates the need for you to worry about exposing your kids to harmful toxins.
It is possible to use eco-friendly pest control methods yourself or to find professional exterminators who use them.
If you have environmental allergies, you know that reducing exposure to any and all irritants is a key step in controlling your symptoms. Mold is also a common irritant, but there may be sources of mold in your home that you are not aware of, such as your houseplants.
Mold on Houseplants. Can Houseplants have Mold?
How houseplants grow mold
Houseplants kept at home or at work are actually a common source of mold. The plants themselves are not a problem, but the moist soil and even some containers can harbor mold. Most potted plants are kept very moist, and that moist soil is a breeding ground for mold and if the soil is ever disturbed in any way, the mold spores are released into the air.
Preventing Mold in Houseplants
Allergy doctors often advise patients who are allergic to mold to remove houseplants. However, if you just can’t live without having green plants in your home, there are some steps you can take to reduce or prevent mold in houseplants.
First, start with sterile soil. The dirt it is planted in may already have mold in the store or plant nursery, so be sure to repot every plant with new soil, removing as much of the old dirt as you can from the root ball.
You can always sterilize your soil by heating it in the oven if you want to be very sure it is mold-free.
Water your plants only when they are dry; don’t overwater. Mold in houseplants usually occurs when the plant is constantly moist. Instead of watering on a daily schedule, only water your plants when they are dry to the touch.
Making sure your plants get plenty of sunlight directly on the potted soil will help too.
If the houseplant has good air circulation around it, mold is less likely to grow. Perhaps add a small fan near your plants to improve air flow.
Trimming dead leaves and keeping the houseplants neat and maintained will also help.
If you address your potentially moldy houseplant and still smell mold or have symptoms of mold exposure, check your home. This post covers the most likely places to find mold, but if those don't pan out, be mindful that any spot in the home could become a breeding ground in the presence of a leak or collection of humidity. If you find mold or suspect mold and don't want to or can't check the home yourself, the next step is to have a mold inspection. Call us if you discover you do have mold to remove it and repair the damage.
