Termites are not just destructive pests in the home. They can destroy any cellulose-based structure in your yard. If you’ve recently had a wooden play set installed, you can use a variety of natural methods to stop termites from destroying it. Use these five tips to keep termites out. 

5 Tips for Protecting Your Wooden Play Set From Termites

1. Move the Playset Into the Sun

Wooden play sets should be installed in an area of your yard that gets a lot of sunlight. Trim back any surrounding vegetation that may block the sun. Termites need moisture and don’t survive in the heat. If you’re worried about an infestation, remove infested or diseased trees, branches, and shrubbery to make your yard less termite-friendly.

2. Release Nematodes

Give parasitic nematodes the opportunity to rid your yard of termites. These beneficial, microscopic creatures consume termites as well as fungi and bacteria. Nematodes, which will work tirelessly until every termite in your yard is gone, are a proven method of biological termite control.

3. Use Orange Oil

Spray a solution of orange oil around the base of your wooden play set and anywhere you believe termites are present. The oil has high levels of d-limonene, which is fatal to the insect pests. Put three or four drops of orange oil in a small spray bottle filled with water and apply as needed to kill termites on contact.

4.  Remove Dead Branches & Tree Stumps

Eliminate potential termite nesting sites from your property by getting rid of dead or dying trees and stumps. Call your local tree service to schedule tree trimming, tree removal, and stump grinding. Also, consider getting rid of old mulch.

5. Spray White Vinegar

Add half a cup of white vinegar and the juice of two lemons to make an inexpensive, nontoxic termite treatment spray. Like orange oil, white vinegar kills the insects instantly, especially when paired with the acidic power of lemon.

If your wooden play set sustains termite damage despite your best efforts, replace it with a quality cedar model from Backyard Adventures of Iowa. This outdoor family recreation supplier has served residents throughout Urbandale, IA, and surrounding vicinities for nearly 20 years, with free delivery to metro-area clients. Cedar play sets come with a 10-year or a lifetime warranty, depending on the series. Call (515) 270-2433 today with product questions, or review their catalog online. Connect with them on Facebook for the latest news about sales and discounts.