Protecting Against Pumpkin Pests
Pumpkin spice season is upon us, and as much as people love the seasonal flavor of pumpkin in their breads, coffees, and soups, pests are just as fond of this delicious food! Pumpkins are pest magnets. As all pests are preparing for colder weather, they target pumpkins for the seeds and flesh. The last thing anyone wants to deal with is pests destroying and infesting autumn and fall decorations around your home. If you live in the Chicago area, you have pests that can’t wait to get their little hands and teeth into some of the edible (and even the non-edible) arrangements. Chicago residents in DuPage and Cook County regularly see mice, rats, opossums, raccoons, and more as the weather cools down and they are looking for an easy meal. Although larger pests are more evident, little flies and other pests like ants and earwigs are eating away at the inside of your pumpkins. Instead of letting your home be the buffet this autumn, use some methods to protect your décor.
Natural Repellents
Using natural repellents to keep pests away from your pumpkins can work with some household ingredients. Using a mixture of vinegar and water in a spray bottle can help repel pests. Using peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus oils with water can also provide an unattractive scent that animals typically avoid. These methods are safe for pumpkins, the environment, and effective!
Rubbing your pumpkin in Vaseline deters large animals and small insects from getting into your uncarved pumpkin. These methods for protecting pumpkins are safe for both pets and people. Pet fur around the base of the pumpkin will also serve as a deterrent for pests – they don’t like the scent!
Diatomaceous earth targets soft-bodied insects and is completely safe for people and pets. This substance can be used in dry form at the base of pumpkins and fall décor, or mixed with water. It is essential to reapply this mixture, as with the others mentioned, after rain.
Keep It Spicy
Add a little spice to water, and squirrels won’t touch your pumpkins. Crushed red paprika flakes, like those found in pizza joints, or a cayenne pepper water spray will deter pests and keep new ones away. Some pumpkin protectors use a little dish soap in the spray to help these spicy seasonings stay on!
Placement Matters
Placing pumpkins off the ground can be enough of a deterrent for some pests. The harder it is to get to, the fewer pests you must worry about. Moving pumpkins frequently also prevents pests from establishing a highway to the pumpkin. Some claim motion lights and sprinklers can ward off some pests, too!
Avoiding Pumpkin Insect Pests
Sometimes, the more minor the pests, the worse the problem. Although insect pests are highly treatable, once they get into your pumpkins, they can destroy them from the inside and spread bacterial diseases. Insects that mate in flowers and prevent production, and their larvae can cause rot. Worms eat away at pumpkin stems, and their larvae will cause rot that can attract fruit flies and other disgusting pests.
Carved pumpkins are renowned for rotting within days, and any home without a regular pest control treatment plan in place will likely have to replace its pumpkins more than once. The openings in carved pumpkins make entry easy, and rodents can smell the food as well as other hungry wildlife.
Low-Toxicity Pest Control
One of the best ways to keep pests away from your pumpkins and your home is an effective pest control treatment plan. Bigfoot Pest Control is locally owned and operated. Eco-friendly and low-toxicity pest control can keep pests away year-round and be safe for people and pets. They are so confident in the pest control services they offer, they guarantee your satisfaction! It is not too late to treat pests this autumn, and then you don’t need to worry about natural oils, petroleum jelly, or skipping the carving party.
Reclaim Your Fall Décor
There is no reason to pass on decorating this fall because you can reclaim your fall and pumpkin décor today. Contact Bigfoot Pest Control today for a free inspection and to get started on an affordable treatment plan that takes effect immediately. DuPage County and Cook County love their fall seasons, decorating them with pumpkins as the trees lend their artistic flair with bright leaves on the ground. Contact Bigfoot today at 847-891-8852.