Creating a Fall Pest Control Plan: Tips for Homeowners in Central Massachusetts

Fall is one of the best times to live in Central Massachusetts. From the beautiful red and orange leaves that light up the trees to the abundance of fun fall activities, it’s the perfect time to be out and about. However, at the same time, you’re trying to soak in the last of the comfortable weather, crisp air is driving pests indoors. That’s why now is the best time to create and implement a fall pest control plan at your home. Keep reading for some helpful tips to protect your home from those pesky fall pest invaders.

Common Fall Pests in Central Mass

While many insects die as the old weather moves in, some remain active as they prepare to hibernate or overwinter. Here are some of the most common fall pests to be on the lookout for in Central Massachusetts. And note, if these pests are a noticeable problem, be sure to check out our Fall Invader Program.

• Bees
• Beetles and Lady Beetles
• Boxelder Bugs
• Rodents
• Ants
• Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
• Cockroaches
• Spiders
• Bed Bugs
• Crickets
• Cluster Flies
• Western Conifer Seed Bugs

Fall Pest Control Tips for Central Mass Homeowners

As you’re thinking about all the winterizing you need to do to prepare your home for the colder months ahead, you should also be formulating a game plan to keep pests out. While you’re cleaning gutters and raking leaves, take some time to:

1. Give your home a thorough inspection: Pay attention to any areas where pests might try to enter your home. Look for any cracks, gaps, or openings, particularly around doors, windows, and pipes. Seal any gaps or cracks you find with caulk or weather stripping to prevent pests from entering your home.
2. Keep moisture in check: Pests are attracted to moisture. Be sure to fix any leaky faucets, drains, or pipes in your home. If there are areas in your house that are always damp, like the basement, run a dehumidifier. A water check outside the home is important, too. Remove any empty pots, buckets, or other containers that may hold water.
3. Store your firewood properly: If you use firewood, be sure to store it at least 20 feet away from your home. While that makes it a bit more inconvenient, the distance is essential as placing it right next to your home creates a safe harbor for termites and other bugs to burrow their way into your siding. Plus, it can also be a fire hazard. To be even more diligent, store the firewood off the ground, such as on top of cinder blocks.
4. Trim your shrubs and vegetation: This is an excellent time of year to trim back any trees or shrubs that are close to your home. Overgrown shrubs that are less than two feet from your house at maturity provide a place for insects and other wildlife to hide. Also, if you have fruit trees, be sure to remove any spoiled fruit from the ground.
5. Hire a professional pest control service: While there’s a lot you can do on your own to protect your home, if you find you already have a pest problem, there’s no remedy like the expert guidance of professional pest control technicians like Ford’s Hometown Services. We’re ready and able to help you create a preventative plan, or tackle the issue at hand.

Pests Aren’t Just a Fall Problem in Central Mass

While the crisp Autumn air has us thinking a bit more about pests, having a year-round preventative pest plan is the best bet. As you know, each season brings with it unique pest issues and preventive pest control provides strategically timed treatments and proper placement to prevent insects from entering your home.