Expert and unbiased answers to frequently asked questions about lawns and gardens.
Tom Fowler - Horticulturist
University of Missouri Extension
Buchanan County, Missouri
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INSECTS
We have a lot of worms with a lot of legs getting into our garage. What are they and what can we do to control them?
Answer: More than likely are millipedes, they are also called thousand-legged worms. Millipedes are worm-like and most often brownish-black in color, Their legs ripple as they move and they will curl up if they are touched. Millipedes like damp locations (such as wooded areas) but will sometimes move in the house. They are actually beneficial in nature because they help break down plant material. They do not bite people or damage household furnishings directly, but they will leave a mess and give off an odor if crushed. They require high moisture to survive and often will die in a day or two after entering the house. Dead millipedes can be vacuumed up and disposed of. Sealing and caulking around openings in the foundation and around doors will help keep them out. Drying out moist areas inside will help with control. If you still have problems, spraying a three-foot band around the outside of the house using resmethrin, cyfluthrin or proxopur will take care of them before they get inside. See the MU guide 7362 for more details. More information about insects
Relevant Guide Sheets: MU guide 7362
Is it an ant or termite?
Answer: As the weather warms in the spring we sometimes see swarms of insects. Are they ants or termites? Fortunately, there are several differences you can distinguish between the two. Ants’ antennae are elbowed, while termites’ are straight. Ants have a thin waist while the waist of a termite is thick. Termites have two pairs of wings that are of equal length, the ant has two pairs of wings that are unequal length. If you find termite activity in your home you should contact a reputable pest control firm. If treatment is needed get more than one estimate. For information on ants and termites see MU Extension guides 7392 and 7420.
Relevant Guide Sheets : MU guide 7392, MU guide 7420
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