The Bug-Free Way to Use Dried Corn Decorations
Dried corn is a popular decoration in Alabama that can instantly create a festive fall feel. The one problem – it can deteriorate and attract bugs or rodents. The last thing you want is to invite insects over for Thanksgiving, because once they find a nice warm spot they are likely to stay the entire winter.
Before you decide to chuck your corncobs, try these tips on how to properly use and store dried corn decorations so they don’t attract bugs.
Ways to Use Dried Corn Without Attracting Insects
Dried corn is an affordable way to add colorful fall elements to your home décor. Here are a few ideas on using dried corn around your house without attracting pests.
Use a Spray-On Protectant – The best way to deter insects is by coating the dried corn with a spray-on protectant. Krylon’s Preserve It! spray is a good option, and it can also help to keep the color looking fresh for longer.
Keep It Up Off the Ground and Away from Entrances – The further you keep dried corn from floors, windows and doors the harder it will be for bugs to find. A wreath on the wall inside (not on the exterior of the door) is a great way to use dried corn so that it is nowhere near the ground or entrances.
Use the Husks Only – There are lots of creative ways to use just the cornhusks, which are less likely to attract hungry pests. Husks can be wrapped into wreaths, stalks can play up the front entrance and they can be used to give centerpieces a fall feel.
Ways to Store Dried Corn Decorations to Keep Bugs Away
Once the fall season is past and it’s time to put out the winter decorations, you’ll need to carefully store your dried corn decorations so they can be used next year instead of being eaten by insects or rodents.
Carefully Check Corn Before Storing – If you accidentally pack dried corn up that already has a few bugs inside it can quickly become an infestation.
Double Bag It – Before storing dried corn in a container, first zip it up in a plastic bag. This will help to further protect it and keep pests from discovering your delicious decorations.
Use Heavy-Duty Plastic Containers – Dried food pests are capable of getting through cardboard if they smell something they like. That’s why it’s best to use heavy-duty plastic containers for storing dried corn.
Keep Storage Areas Clean – The cleaner your storage area is the less likely it is to attract bugs in the first place. Keep dried corn decorations in an area that is clean, free of clutter and frequented on a regular basis.
Regular pest control treatments can also help protect your natural decorations by keeping the bug population in check. Give Vulcan Termite and Pest Control, Inc. a call to schedule your fall quarterly treatments for a bug-free Thanksgiving.
Original Source: https://www.vulcantermite.com/home-pest-control/the-bug-free-way-to-use-dried-corn-decorations/