10 Effective Natural Termite Control Methods for Californians

A close-up of termites commonly found in California homes.

Termites can pose significant dangers and threats to your home, mainly because they eat materials containing cellulose such as wood and other organic matter. Your furniture, kitchen cabinet, drywall, and crawlspaces are all susceptible to termite damage if they are untreated and unattended.

Damage caused by termites is not just a structural problem. It has also a financial impact because they incur significant costs in repairing or replacing damaged wooden structures, furniture, and other items. In severe cases, the financial impact can be substantial.

In addition, termite infestations can decrease the resale value of a property. Prospective buyers are often wary of purchasing a property with a history of termite damage or ongoing infestations, leading to challenges in the real estate market. So as much as possible, you don’t want termites near your property.

To mitigate these dangers, it’s essential to conduct regular inspections for signs of termite activity and take preventive measures.

Natural remedies for termites are usually less expensive than traditional chemical treatments, not to mention they are less harmful to the environment. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be as effective as professional treatments, especially if the termite infestation is severe.

10 Ways to Get Rid of Termites Naturally

It’s important to note that while these methods may help control termite populations, severe infestations often require professional intervention. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for effective termite control. If you’re wondering what’s the best natural termite control method, here are some of them:

1. Nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that feed on termites. When applied to the soil, they seek out and infect termite larvae, helping to control termite populations.

2. Essential Oils

Essential oils have termite-repelling properties. Mixing these oils with water and spraying the solution on affected areas can help deter termites. Here are some essential oils you may use:

• Orange oil contains d-limonene, which is toxic to termites. It can be applied directly to infested areas or used as a barrier treatment to repel termites.
• Neem oil is a natural pesticide that is also effective against termites. You can mix orange oil with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding. 
• Citronella oil is another natural repellent that termites hate. You can mix citronella oil with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding. 
• Cedar oil is a natural repellent that termites hate. You can soak cedar blocks in cedar oil and place them around your home’s foundation. You can also add cedar oil to a diffuser and let it run in your home.

3. Boric Acid

Boric acid is a natural insecticide that can be applied as a powder or solution to affected areas. Termites ingest it, and it disrupts their digestive system, eventually leading to their death. You can sprinkle boric acid around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites. 

4. Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is a method of killing termites by raising the temperature of the infested area to 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be done using a professional heat treatment service or by yourself using a heat gun.

5. Sunlight Exposure

No heat gun? Exposing infested wooden items or furniture to direct sunlight can help in killing termites. Termites are sensitive to heat, and prolonged exposure can be effective in eliminating them.

6. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder that consists of fossilized diatoms. When termites come into contact with it, the powder absorbs lipids from their exoskeleton, leading to dehydration and death. You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.

7. Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural acid that termites hate. You can mix vinegar with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding.

8. Salt Barrier

Salt is a desiccant that can dehydrate termites and kill them. You can sprinkle salt around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.

9. Cardboard Traps

Placing wet cardboard near termite-infested areas can attract termites. Once they infest the cardboard, you can remove and burn it to eliminate a portion of the termite population.

10. Beneficial Plants

Certain plants, such as vetiver grass and neem trees, have natural repellent properties against termites. Planting them around your property can help deter termite infestations.

These are just a few of the many natural termite control methods that are available. It is important to do your research and choose the method that is right for you and your home.

Seek Help from Termite Control Expert

If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.