Question: I have a MAJOR roach infestation that I cannot seem to get under
control-I have tried sprays, bait, boric acid etc. nothing seems to work I
have a daughter that has severe asthma and I was told that the roaches
might be triggering her asthma, I need to get rid of the roaches now not
six months from now as all the other pest control companies have told me,
can you help? Can I have my house tented and sprayed?
ANSWER Fumigation is not necessary.
The best control strategy for the control of household cockroaches is to use baits, either the plastic bait stations or the gel formulation that comes in a plastic syringe. These are generally available in large hardware or home stores. This type of control strategy is much more effective than aerosol sprays and liquid treatments.
Baits should be placed where you have seen the cockroaches. The plastic stations are best placed in corners in cabinets and under the sink and by the refrigerator. They can remain active for a long time (about three months) and provide continuous protection. The gel formulation should be applied to cracks and crevices in the places that you have seen the cockroaches. The small gel placements may be eaten quickly by the cockroaches, so replace the bait where you see it has been eaten. The small nymphs (babies!) and the adults will eat the bait, even several days after you apply it. And bait not eaten will remain effective for several months.
German cockroaches (small roaches-about ½" long) will be effectively controlled by using either of the baits; large cockroaches, such as waterbugs (oriental cockroaches) and American cockroaches (called palmettobugs in some places) are best controlled with the gel formulation. Remember, re-apply the bait when it is eaten. Give this method about three weeks to work.
When the roach activity has stopped, it may be necessary to empty the cabinets again and vacuum up all the dead roaches. Try to get them out of all of the cracks and crevices. You will probably stir up some dust with this, so you may want your daughter to be gone during this clean-up.
