By Ron Schwalb, A.C.E., National Technical Manager
Spiders are primarily beneficial, so their activities should be encouraged in the garden and areas away from the house. Prevention should begin before spider populations become too numerous or before certain venomous spiders invade the structure. The best approach to controlling spiders is to start an integrated program early that includes inspection, prevention, exclusion and sanitation.
Inspection: Spider infestations may be in the form of web makers that create webs on both the inside and exterior of structures, and ground predators that may crawl into structures looking for insect prey. When checking exteriors, keep an eye out for potential harborage and food sources as well as likely entry points. Spiders overwinter very well, so a thorough interior inspection is essential, especially in less-visible areas of crawlspaces, storage rooms and garages. Property owners can give you lots of information on any sightings or concerns.
Prevention, exclusion and sanitation: Spiders gain access to structures through cracks and other openings. They can be introduced on items like firewood, plants and stored boxes. Seal cracks and crevices in the foundation. Caulk around windows and doors. Remove all debris next to the foundation, and trim shrubs and trees away from the structure to prevent protective harborage. Make sure all window screens are intact — and if not, suggest repair. Inspect firewood and other material brought into the interior of the structure.
It is also important to remove webs. Use a web removal product that breaks down the webs for easy and thorough removal that also helps prevent new web formation. To treat boat marinas where spiders are always a major concern, choose a “green” product approved for use over water. Spider control may also require targeted applications of a pesticide, including aerosols that can target each spider in its web, crack or crevice using a pinstream applicator tip. This should also kill and provide residual control for insects that may act as food sources. Baits can be used around the exterior of structures to further reduce insect populations.
Customer cooperation is important in effective spider control. Regular cleaning and maintenance indoors, in storage areas and outside will help reduce harborage and food sources that lure spiders.
Remember, spiders are generally very beneficial, but can become pests when populations around a structure increase, and webbing becomes unsightly. An early start to a well-planned and integrated program delivers the best results.
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