How to Kill Termites in Mulch

This article is written to serve as a guide on how to kill termites in your mulch.

Now termite issues are considered highly destructive and require the expertise and approach to eliminate them comprehensively.

One of the reasons why mulch isn’t an ideal target for termites is that it dries out fast. However, mulch materials that remain moist for extended periods are like to be targeted much quicker.

Is Bagged Mulch Treated for Termites?

Have you noticed a recent upsurge in termite activity not long after you applied mulch to your surroundings? Mulch may not necessarily be the cause for termite presence.

Instead, the problem may have existed long before you applied mulch. Whatever the case is, such termites will need to be killed.

Reasons Why your Mulch Material May be Attractive to Termite

First, it’s necessary to understand that mulch holds a lot of cellulose that termites need. While that is true, termites in mulch don’t happen by chance.

These pests may target your mulch when the mulch holds in moisture. To prevent this, the mulch layer must be around 2 inches thick.

This allows for better sunlight penetration and quick drying. Also, your mulch material should be at least 6 inches away from wooden structures and your home.

Providing these conditions makes it less likely for termites to get into your mulch. You can also make adjustments after killing these termites.

Killing Termites in Mulch

When termites are discovered in mulch, you’re likely observing only a part of a bigger problem.

There may be a nearby colony below from where these termites are appearing. It’s a discovery that requires urgent action.

Urgent action, in this sense, refers to applying effective treatment measures to eliminate the problem.

There are two practical approaches to termite extermination; the DIY and professional approaches to treatment.

The DIY technique comprises a wide range of approaches that can prove highly beneficial when properly executed. Let’s discuss each of these approaches.

i. DIY Methods of Killing Termites in Mulch

This is frequently the first approach most people adopt. DIY techniques aren’t without their many flaws, especially when not applied correctly.

As far as termites go, applying various over-the-counter insecticides will produce some results. Examples of these include bait systems.

There are spray products that can be helpful to you. Eco-friendly alternatives like diatomaceous earth are also practical and ideal for the environment.

Let’s discuss each of these to give you an idea of how to apply them to your termite problem.

ii. Bait Systems

Bait systems or termite baits contain cellulose-rich material and a slow-acting pesticide.

As the name suggests, this is designed to be transported into the termite colony before slowly killing these pests. For termite baits t be effective, they must be used as instructed by the manufacturer.

This may be placed around affected mulch areas to be munched on by termites. You shouldn’t expect immediate results as it’s slow acting and might take a few days to a few weeks to see its full impact.

As termites haul such bait to their colony, it is feasted on before it slowly begins to act.

Termite baits are among the most effective ways you can resolve termite issues. The drawback of using the bait system for termite control is that it may be ingested by your pets or kids.

If you must use this technique, ensure you stick to the product’s safety instructions.

iii. Spray Products

Many over-the-counter liquid termite treatments are available for a wide range of uses. These can be bought and applied in mulch.

Most times, affected areas will need to be drenched to poison termites. Getting the most out of these treatments will require executing treatment the exact way the product manufacturer instructs.

Some spray products come ready to use, while others must be diluted. Whatever it is, you’ll need to follow what’s instructed.

Also important is the need to stick to safety instructions. There may be environmentally friendly alternatives to pick from. These tend to be safer around kids and pets.

iv. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is one effective pesticide that can be used on many pests, including termites. You can apply this product to termites in mulch.

It works by simply dehydrating them. The wax-like coating on their exoskeletons is removed or degraded by diatomaceous earth.

v. Professional Approach to Treatment

The professional approach to killing termites in mulch tends to be the most effective. It would help if you pointed out that not all DIY treatments help achieve desired effects.

This is especially true when treatments aren’t correctly applied or when conditions around which you used treatments aren’t ideal.

In a nutshell, many things can go wrong with DIY termite extermination methods. With professional treatment, you’re likely to get desired results.

This tends to be the most convenient as you must call a pro to inspect and apply the appropriate treatment.

Pest technicians are skilled persons who understand termite behavior and can trace these pests to their source. So, far-reaching results are achieved without having to stress oneself.

Termite Problems May Extend Beyond the Mulch Area

When mulch is applied close to a building, it increases the risks of termites entering your home. A professional inspection may discover termite presence within the main structure.

This discovery instantly widens you must comprehensively treat the scope of treatment as all affected areas.

If you live in a termite-prone area, you might want to ask for a termite contract. Such a contract ensures that existing infestations are eliminated while future problems are prevented.

Termite contracts vary by treatment frequency. They include bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly.

Here you get to choose your treatment options based on your need. The sooner you enter into such contracts, the less difficult it gets to push back on these destructive pests.

Killing termites in mulch can be done through the different techniques discussed above. For more reliable results, consider hiring an experienced technician.

Preventive action is the best approach as it helps prevent future infestations.

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