Inviting House Pests Unknowingly Everyday

We do not give much thoughts to everyday actions we do on a routine basis. Yet, these are the very actions which could result in us opening doors wide to invite house pests unknowingly. Here is one example of a cause and effect of poor plants watering habits we do in our homes daily.

Plants and greenery are therapeutic and most homes may display them for aesthetic reasons, hobby or stress-relieve purposes. Plant maintenance such as pruning, watering, removing bugs or sprucing them with vitamins are some planting activities we will take to keep them fresh and healthy.

Poor watering habits can encourage pests breeding

While we are concerned if by using too little or too much watering may damage the plants, the other critical question to ask is, would poor plant watering habits lead to bigger problems, such as inviting pests to your home?

Here is a summary of pests risks resulting from poor watering habits:

#1 Excess stagnant water left in the potted plant trays

We may use a water hose, watering can or plant mister that ends up over-watering more than we should, or create excess water that are collected within the trays. Mosquitoes breed in clear stagnant water. That is the 1st step in maturing these larvae into adult mosquitoes, and placing us at risk of being bitten by female mosquitoes.

There are many common breeding sources that could be found in a home. This is because carbon dioxide released from plants attracts mosquitoes. Tip: Control the water distribution capacity, nozzle spray size and output speed. Always remember to empty the trays after plant watering to ensure no breeding opportunities.

#2 Water spillages not removed on the floor

There could be possibilities of water spills or leak on floor. This is regardless of where the plants are displayed - at the balcony or along the floor at the foyer area. Besides the health and safety risks such as slips and falls due to wet slippery surface, do you know, moisture is a big attractant to pests damaging your home?

Ants, cockroaches and termites are 3 common pests that will feed on moisture and nest further. A termite infestation could arise and your home structures and fixtures would be damaged. Tips: Always remember to wipe dry your surfaces and remove any water spills. Check if your pipes may be leaking in your balcony and to close the windows if there is rain to avoid moisture sipping in.

#3 Over-watering of plants with poor pot saucer drainage

For diligent users, we should take precautions in avoiding stagnant water or spills. The other risk of poor watering habits may end up clogging the potted plants. This will reduce the oxygen supply of the plants to grow healthily. The roots will decay, causing the plants to wither and destroy. The resulting risk is we would tend to think it is due to pest infestation on the plants and end up feeding the plants with more pesticides and DIY sprays.

We always love to share more, click here to understand more on Is Your Garden Damaged by Pests?

Take actions to prevent pests breeding at home

Now you know that your poor plant watering habits at home could result in attracting so many different house pests, you might like to give more careful attention on your next watering!

Start engaging your pest control specialist to step up on your pest prevention journey. To find out more about the solutions available, call us at (65) 6347 8138.