If you live in Florida, you are bound to encounter termites on your property. Termites can cause extensive damage to your property, especially to your wooden structures. Before you know it, all your expensive wooden furniture may have already been eaten up from the inside out. Homeowners use various methods to combat these pests, one of them being orange oil.
Extracted from the peels of oranges, this oil contains d-limonene, which can break down the exoskeletons of termites. You can use orange oil to both prevent future infestations and kill any existing termites. Moreover, it is a natural product that does not harm you and also leaves a pleasant citrus scent behind. It is the preferable choice for families with pets and children.
It should be noted that while orange oil might be effective for small, localized infestations, it may be limited for larger or hidden populations. Termites are infamous for creeping into your house and hiding. This is where the services of professional pest control in Oboe come into the picture. Experts get the work done and do not leave any doubts behind.
What exactly is orange oil?
Orange oil, as the name suggests, is extracted from the rinds of sweet oranges. The extraction process involves separating the oil from the peels using cold-pressing techniques or steam distillation. One of the main components found in orange oil is d-limonene, which dissolves the exoskeletons of the termites and eventually kills them.
Orange oil has various properties that make it the perfect choice. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and insecticide properties. Additionally, studies indicate that orange oil can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve mood. Therefore, when you apply this method in your house to kill termites, you will also get an aromatherapy session.
Benefits of orange oil for pest control
One of the best benefits of orange oil for pest control is that it is non-toxic and eco-friendly. Traditional pesticides pose health risks to both humans and pets, but orange oil is generally considered to be safe for use in homes. It can effectively kill termites and does not even require you to vacate your home during the treatment, which is highly convenient.
Moreover, since orange oil has practically no levels of toxicity, it has no environmental implications. Another advantage of orange oil is its pleasant citrus aroma, which leaves treated areas smelling fresh. On the other hand, chemical pesticides have harsh and artificial odors that stay hours after the application. This can make it difficult to stay inside.
How do you use orange oil for termite control?
Even though orange oil is completely safe, it can still cause skin and eye irritation. Therefore, if you employ the substance for termite control, make sure you are wearing protective clothing that covers your eyes, face, and hands.
Next, it is important first to identify the areas where termites are found the most. You can trace them with the help of signs, such as cracks in walls, soft wood that sounds hollow when tapped, mud tubes on exterior walls, and discarded wings.
There are various application methods you can use, including direct spraying. Take some orange oil in a spray bottle and directly apply it onto the infested areas or inject it into drilled holes within the wood. Since they are attracted to wood, you can soak a piece of wood in orange oil. Termites will instantly die when they come in contact with it.
The recommended concentration of orange oil is 4 drops of concentrated orange oil per gallon of water. Ensuring the right concentration amount is important based on the severity of the problem.
Say goodbye to termites!
A termite infestation can make it impossible for you to live peacefully in your own house. You should not let the situation escalate. Hire professional pest control services in Florida today!
