Termites can wreak havoc on your property. Once a colony is formed, the worker termites can live up to two years, and the queen could live at least 10 years. During this time, they'll reproduce exponentially, quickly becoming an almost uncontrollable nuisance. To prevent it from getting this far, here are four ways to get rid of termites without using harmful chemicals.

Use Beneficial Nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic and can easily be applied to your property with a spray bottle, hose sprayer or irrigation system. These parasites seek out insects, infect and kill them, reproduce inside of them, then eat them from the inside out. Then they move on to the next victim. This might sound like a barbaric way for termites to die, but it's effective, and it's safe for humans and pets. However, this is useful for prevention but not the best way to get rid of termites that have invaded your house already.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a substance made from naturally occurring silica. It's safe to use because it's non-toxic and non-poisonous, although if inhaled, it can cause irritation. Food-grade DE can lessen irritation if you or your children or pets accidentally inhale it. DE works by drying termites out. It penetrates the exoskeletons of the pests and dries them out within 12 to 24 hours. Keep in mind that DE can only be used in dry conditions. The second it gets moist, even a tiny bit, it becomes ineffective. As soon as you see the signs of an infestation, consider using DE.

Remove Infested Food Sources

When you become aware of termite colonies on your property, getting rid of the infested food source is one of the first ways to begin fighting them. In order to remove termites without using chemicals, tree removal may be necessary. This could also mean chopping down and/or hollow burning trees, bushes, plants or anything else they may be infesting. Failure to remove a termite infested tree could prove dangerous if it falls. When the termites lose their source of food and shelter, they will quickly leave to more accommodating locations.

Extreme Heat

For infestations in your home, heat treatments can be extremely effective. Drywood termites, like bed bugs, can't survive extremely hot temperatures. At 115°F, four hours of exposure kills drywood termites. The hotter the temperature, the less time it takes to kill them. At 130°F, they'll die within six minutes. This treatment only works on drywood termites. If you are unsure what type of termite you are dealing with, contact a pest control agency for help.

Termites are a nuisance. It's important to routinely check for signs of an infestation and get rid of them before they do costly damage to your property. Using the four steps above will help to get rid of your termite problem while keeping your family safe. Good luck getting rid of these pests!

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