Whether you’re dealing with dandelions, fruit flies, rodents or some other pest, there are smart, effective ways to solve your problem without resorting to harsh chemicals. Learn to identify your pest, understand its life cycle and biology, use preventive measures, and when necessary, take immediate action.
UC Cooperative Extension is here to help you find research-based strategies for managing pests and weeds in gardens, orchards, landscapes, vegetable crops and wildlands. Pests include unwanted organisms that damage or interfere with the production of desirable plants, impact water quality or animal health, or cause structural damage to homes and buildings. Pests can be insects, birds, rodents, vertebrates, nematodes, fungi or pathogens.
A good first step is to remove the food, water or shelter that attracts the pest. Ripe fruit attracts flies and other pests; a dirty kitchen attracts cockroaches; and loose or uncapped grain containers can draw in meal moths. Store food in glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, and place ripe vegetables in the refrigerator. Keep garbage cans tightly closed, and regularly empty them. Make sure the drains in sinks and bathtubs are working properly, and do not leave standing water around houseplants or outside in the garden.
The best way to manage most solve your pest problem is through biological control. Encourage “natural enemies” to keep pest numbers low, and avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides. In the garden, ladybugs and other beetles eat aphids; spiders prey on spider mites; and parasitic wasps and minute pirate bugs target caterpillars and leafhoppers.
If you do need to use pesticides, follow integrated pest management IPM guidelines to reduce the risks of human and pet exposure and environmental harm. Use the least toxic chemical options available, and always read labels carefully before applying any product.
Herbs, spices and essential oils can be used to deter some pests. For example, peppermint oil repels ants, while cinnamon and cloves deter mice. Some plants, such as lavender, also emit a pleasant fragrance that repels insects.
Crawlspaces, cracks and crevices in the walls and foundation, and loose caulking are all potential entry points for pests. Sealing these areas is an effective pest-deterrent strategy. For instance, a screwdriver can be used to stuff copper mesh into holes where critters are entering a home, and then the gap can be sealed with expanding foam sealant for a permanent solution.
If a recurring pest problem persists despite these preventive strategies, consider calling in a professional for help. A licensed pest control company can provide a permanent solution with rodent exclusion services, which are especially useful for problems with squirrels, rats and other rodents that are difficult to get rid of on your own. Some pests, such as bats and birds, may require a more comprehensive approach. Contact your local UC Cooperative Extension office for more information. We have many expert horticulturists and entomologists ready to answer your questions. You can also find the office nearest you on our website.