Tips To Avoid Palmetto Bugs | Charleston, SC
Palmetto bugs are a scourge of homeowners. They take 15 months to reach adulthood, and once they’re grown, can live for another 15 months. They can go for months without food, and can live on water alone. Once established, they are extremely difficult to eradicate, so prevention is the best form of cure.
Attractants
Palmetto bugs, also known as the American cockroach, are attracted to warmth and dampness. They earned the name palmetto bug by being commonly found under piles of fallen palmetto leaves. They thrive in a damp, humid habitat and will migrate indoors for one of two reasons- to escape cold, dry weather, or if attracted by food and water sources.
Avoid Palmetto Bugs
The first step to avoiding an infestation of palmetto bugs is to examine your home for any spaces in which they may thrive. Damp spots such as basements or even under floors provide ideal conditions for the insects to thrive. Unlike some species of cockroach, palmetto bugs are attracted to light and can be seen flying around light sources at night when they come out to search for food.
Seal Crevices
To prevent infestation, seal any potential bug entrances. Calk holes and cracks, and check carefully for any space which a bug could crawl through and enter your home. Be sure any open windows are well screened. Ventilation louvres can also be covered with window screen to prevent bugs from entering.
Tidy Up
The best way to avoid an infestation is to keep the home clean. Wipe down surfaces where food is prepared and clean up any crumbs right away. Dirty dishes should be washed immediately. Vacuum and sweep floors regularly and don’t allow clutter to build up. This ensures that there is less food available to the roaches and fewer places for them to find shelter, discouraging them from taking up residence.
Don’t Forget the Lawn
Palmetto bugs love leaf litter and other outdoor debris. Keep your lawn and gutters clear. Keep shrubs and trees cut back to at least 18 inches away from the home, to avoid providing the bugs a place to hide.
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