pest control chemicals
Antimite Pest Control Non-Chemical Termite Heat Treatment

what are the merits of organic pest control versus chemical pest-control?

ie…
the benefits and disadvantages of both methods of pest-control??

Chemical pesticides are often more effective over the short term. However, over time, pests build up immunity to the poisons, so you have to keep using stronger and stronger chemicals. Some pesticides also cause health problems (mainly cancer and reproductive or neurological problems) in human handlers and consumers- if you plan to apply them yourself, be very, very careful to follow the directions EXACTLY. Pesticides also kill beneficial insects as well as harmful ones, and can contaminate groundwater or nearby lakes, rivers, creeks, etc.

Organic methods are more holistic and therefore often less effective short term. Over time, however, many organic farms suffer less crop loss than conventional farms because they concentrate on maintaining healthy populations of natural predators for the pests, practice crop rotation and diversified planting that makes it difficult for any one species of pest to gain a toehold (in contrast to the monocultures common on conventional farms), and place lots of emphasis on natural (rather than chemical) improvement of the soil, which results in plants that are healthier and more pest-resistant in the first place.

Here are some links you might find helpful:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_farming

http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/

http://www.organicgardening.com/

http://www.attra.org/organic.html

http://www.organicconsumers.org/

http://www.beyondpesticides.org/

Pest Prevention Tips From A San Diego Pest Control Specialist

Pest Control is simply a part of home maintenance.  The pest problems which threaten your home depend upon the area in which you live.  Those living in dry, warm climates, such as Southern California, face very different pests than those living in cool damp climates, such as New Jersey.  No matter where you live, many of the precautions you must take to safeguard your home, from pest control problems, are the same.  Be sure and follow these tips to protect your property.

3 Tips for Effective Pest Control

1. Spray for insects regularly

Spraying for insects is the most effective way to stop an infestation and/or prevent future infestations.  Because pest control chemicals are very strong and can be dangerous to your health it is best to hire a trained professional to spray your home for you.  Your pest control expert will be able to help you determine the insects for which you need to spray, how often you will need to spray and what types of chemicals will be the most effective.

2. Store all food appropriately

Many people make the mistake of leaving food out or not storing it properly.  Any food that is readily available will attract pests.  Storing food products in airtight plastic containers is extremely important.  Once you have an infestation, of any kind, it can require a lot of time, money and work to mitigate the problem.  By storing food properly you will greatly reduce your risk of an infestation in the first place.

3. Consider your landscape

Many types of plants attract insects and rodents.  It is important to keep this in mind when purchasing new plants, trees, etc.  It is also a good idea to review the types of plants you already have.  Orange trees for example can attract rats while ivy and many flowering plants attract ants.  Rather than spending large sums of money exterminating pests it may be more effective to rid your yard of the vegetation that is attracting those pests.

These are just a few of the many ways you can protect your home.