Insect Sprays

Insect sprays can help you tackle bothersome pests around the house, yard, barn and other areas of your property, but choosing the right spray starts with knowing what you’re trying to control. Look for an insect control spray labeled for the pest you’ve spotted, whether that’s ants along a doorway, flies around an outbuilding or mosquitoes near an outdoor gathering space. Then check where the spray can be applied: indoor insect sprays, outdoor insect sprays and products labeled for livestock areas have different directions and restrictions. Some formulas kill listed insects on contact, while others provide residual control for the time stated on the label. If you’re looking for insect repellent rather than an insect killer, make sure the label matches your intended purpose. Repellents labeled for skin or clothing are not interchangeable with sprays meant for buildings, lawns or other treatment areas. Getting the most from insect sprays takes a little planning and attention to the spots where pests gather. Before treating an area, read the entire label for application directions, protective gear, retreatment intervals and instructions for keeping people and animals away during and after application. For outdoor pest control, follow any weather restrictions and take care to avoid spray drift, waterways and blooming plants where pollinators are active. Around barns, coops and feeding areas, pay close attention to restrictions involving feed, drinking water, food-contact surfaces and animals; never apply a premise spray directly to livestock or pets unless the label specifically allows that use for that animal. Pair insect spray treatments with everyday upkeep, such as fixing screens, clearing spilled feed, managing manure and emptying containers that collect standing water. These steps help reduce places where insects feed and breed, giving your home and farm pest control routine a stronger foundation.