Well where did October go? As I look at the calendar it feels like things are getting a bit hectic as we plan for Northwest Ohio Crops Day (February 8th), pesticide certification, and all of our other winter programming. Seems like the holidays will be here before we know it.
Significant progress was made in the last two weeks with regards to harvest, but with the recent and forecasted rainfall, it is looking like the remainder of harvest will be delayed for the time being. With a significant rain system heading our way and poor drying conditions it may take a while before fields are firm enough to access. This has raised some concerns over the standing corn stalk quality. Of course late harvest crop standability is largely weather dependent, however one can expect some lodging if a heavy wind come through the region.
Now that we have had frosts and rain, I expect insects to want to start moving into our homes. Home-invaders for which one should prepare include: Clover Mites, Boxelder Bugs, Attic or Cluster Flies, Face Flies, Elm Leaf Beetles, Stink Bugs, and the most notorious of all, Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles. As temperatures drop, nights get longer, and days shorter, these environmental cues trigger these insects and other pests to begin searching for winter shelter. Unfortunately, our homes often prove irresistible to these unwelcome winter guests.
The best way to deal with these home invaders is to prevent them from gaining entry in the first place. Find and seal-off entry points such as cracks around windows, doors, or utility pipes. Poorly attached home siding and rips in window screens provide an open invitation. Check attics for unscreened attic vents, or unprotected vents that lead directly into the home, such as bathroom and kitchen vents. Also, while in the attic, look for openings around soffits (this will also reduce heating costs).
Once inside the home, the best method to manage the offending invader is to introduce them to the “Dirt Devil.” Swatting or otherwise smashing the invader could cause more damage than leaving them alone since fluids inside their bodies could leave permanent stains on the surface. Thus, the vacuum cleaner is the preferred method for giving the invader the bums rush. However, make certain the vacuum cleaner is a “by-pass” type, meaning refuse is not passed through an impeller. Otherwise, you will create a horrifying bug-blender. Using panty hose as a filter on the vacuum hose can help prevent the blender effect, at which point one can easily dump the insects into a disposable container.
Other critters maybe looking to get inside from the cold as well. To prevent rodents or even snakes from entering the home or garage, check all door seals as this is a common entry point for unwanted guests. You may also want to check crawl spaces as to ensure there are no entry points either under or around the home. I’ll end this week with a quote from Peanuts cartoonist Charles Schulz who said, “There’s a difference between a philosophy and a bumper sticker.” Have a great week.