Sarah writes
I have a shed that is 8x12" with some dugout pass throughs under it, and my cat goes under there and lord knows what else. I had problems with rats in the past. I am turning it into a play house for the kids. I have Protecta LP with rat bait outside. It seems to have taken care of the rodents. What about for insects and other spiders that I have seen? Also, do I put some bait or repellent under the shed? Should I cover the base of the shed to the ground or leave it open like it is on one side? I fear something may nest under there and if I close it up the cat won't be able to get to it. I'm going to finish the interior with strand board and paint etc. Should I bait or spray the walls before applying the interior walls? I've already sprayed with orange oil, but I know that will attract bees when the weather warms. There are lots of old wasp nests in there, so I know that has been a problem as well. I would like some natural options if possible especially for the interior.
You can use a dust product such as MotherEarth D in the wall voids before you seal them up. This natural dust product will eliminate just about any insect that travels over treated areas, and it will last indefinitely. Outdoors, you can use a product such as Talstar P. While Talstar P is not a natural product, it is known to be very gentle and it is labeled for all of the insect pests you mentioned. Talstar P can be sprayed once a month on the exterior of the shed around the base and onto the ground and around door frames and window frames. You should consider blocking the open side around the base of the shed with a fine mesh hardware cloth or other suitable material. This will help stop critters from taking up residence. You can also continue to keep bait available in the Protecta LP rat bait stations to help prevent any future rats from moving in.
Answer last updated on: 02/27/2011
