Millipedes

When it comes to seasonal pests like millipedes, you need an expert in commercial and residential pest control in Bergen County NJ and Rockland County NY.

Active as pest: June and again in the Fall

Treatment time: May

If you have had any experience with millipedes you know they can be repulsive! This is especially true when they are swarming into and onto your home. There are things you can do to get rid of these pests and help prevent future infestations. First I will explain some things about millipedes so you can see why the treatments I describe will be effective.

Description

Millipedes have a long, worm-like segmented body with two pair of legs for each segment. The most common species are about 1 1/2 inches long but can grow to exceed four inches. They do not bite. Millipedes are nocturnal vegetarians that live in the soil and mulchy areas outdoors.

They live for several years and will spend the winter in the soil near foundations and under debris in wooded areas. When the millipedes come into the house it is for one of three reasons:

  • They are seeking a place for the winter
  • Their normal habitat is too dry
  • Their normal habitat is too wet

Pest Management

Whatever reason they enter the house, once there, they cannot survive for any length of time. Bearing this in mind, the logical step is to stop the millipedes before they come inside. We do this by eliminating hospitable environments and setting up chemical barriers.

When possible follow these non-chemical steps outside:

DE-THATCH LAWN – millipedes thrive in the dense thatch layer of plant material just above the soil
CLOSELY MOW AND EDGE LAWN – this allows the lawn to dry more quickly and reduce millipede habitat
REMOVE DEBRIS – rocks, heavy mulch, boards, etc. can provide sheltered, damp hiding places for millipedes
EARLY MORNING WATERING – watering first thing in the morning allows the grass to dry during the day instead of remaining wet through the night
MOVE FIREWOOD – because firewood cannot be treated with pesticides, the wood should be stacked in an area away from the house

In addition, there are chemical treatments to assist in the millipede’s demise. Chemical applications are recommended in the spring and fall. It may be necessary to treat for more than one season to fully eradicate the problem.

Chemical is applied to the soil and lawn in a five to ten foot band around the building. This spray should be very thorough to ensure soaking the soil. The lower part of the outside walls should be treated as well, with special attention given to doorways and other openings. Interior sprays are recommended in damp areas of the basement and laundry rooms.

This service can be provided by The Bug Runner (it is not included in service contracts but is provided at a substantial discount to contract customers). The exact cost is based on the property in question so we do need to visit for an estimate.

Note:

Changes in pesticide regulations occur constantly therefore, questions as to specific chemicals can be answered at or near the time of treatment. All products used by the Bug Runner are registered with the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and labels for such are provided to the customer.

Pest Control in Bergen County NJ and Rockland County NY

If you want pests like millipedes dealt with quickly and effectively, having a trusted company for pest control in Bergen County NJ or Rockland County NY is a must. This is why you should give us a call at the Bug Runner at the first sign of these or other pests.

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