Melbourne pest guide
Effective Pest Control Strategies for Melbourne's Climate
General information only. Pest risks and appropriate treatments vary by property, pest species and site conditions. Arrange an inspection for property-specific advice.
Key takeaways
Luckily, the show went on without a hitch. It’s not just rodents that are spelling a big problem for locals; mosquitos, spiders, bed bugs, cockroaches, and ants can frequent CBD apartments and suburbia alike.
When you book an extermination, the technician comes, eradicates and the jobs done providing you with clear and concise instructions post and prior to service. Integrated pest management (IPM) is a more proactive approach. Targeting the root cause of the infestation, IPM uses prevention and ongoing maintenance to stop the infestation in its tracks and prevent future outbreaks.
Native Plants to Repel Pests
Australia's native flora can be a great first line of defence against pests. Here are some common plants you can add to your garden to reduce infestations:
- Lemongrass - Repelling both mosquitos and moths, this easy-care herb is a great addition to any kitchen.
- Eucalyptus - Ants, roaches, and flies hate the smell of this tree. Having it outdoors near your home's entry points is a great way to keep them out.
- M. satureioides (Native pennyroyal) - Plant it near your beloved fruits and veggies to keep ants and other hungry cretins away. The dried leaves work just as well in the home, too!
- Pyrethrum daisies - Although not native to Australia, you can source them Aussie-grown online pretty easily. It’s one of the main ingredients in bug spray and if you keep a pot of it by your doors, it’ll help keep flies at bay.
It’s best to opt for natural pest-proofing methods first before heading down to Bunnings and searching the pesticides aisle. You don’t want to cause any damage to your garden or the fragile native species that live in your local area.
BetterHealth recommends being on it with removing food scraps. This includes cleaning up pet food, making sure your bin lids are secure, and cleaning up any fallen fruits and veggies in your garden. Pests love water sources as well, so if you notice any stagnant water gathering in or around your home, drain it.
Cockroaches love the leftover water residue in your kitchen sink and shower, so give these a wipe-down regularly. And don’t leave any dishes in the sink overnight.
- Ask about their methods - Choose environmentally-conscious providers where possible.
- Check their experience - Experienced companies know how to effectively deal with pests, saving you time and effort.
- Consider pricing - Look for a reasonable price while keeping in mind that quality service may come at a higher cost.