Millipedes in Pennsylvania: Control Guide!

Millipedes in Pennsylvania, a common nuisance pest, often seek refuge indoors, especially during seasonal shifts that impact soil moisture. These arthropods, while generally harmless to humans and structures, can become a significant concern for homeowners in the Delaware Valley region. Effective integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, often recommended by experts at the Penn State Extension, are crucial for managing infestations. Understanding the behavior and habitat of millipedes in Pennsylvania is the first step toward achieving long-term control.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Brodhead Watershed Association , from the video titled North American millipede at Paradise-Price Preserve, Pa. .

Crafting the Ultimate "Millipedes in Pennsylvania: Control Guide!" Article Layout

To create an effective and informative guide about millipede control in Pennsylvania, the article should follow a structured layout that addresses the most relevant aspects of the topic. The key is to organize the information in a logical and easy-to-understand manner, focusing on actionable advice tailored to Pennsylvania residents.

Understanding Millipedes in Pennsylvania

This section will lay the foundation by providing essential information about millipedes specifically in Pennsylvania.

Identifying Millipedes

• Appearance: Describe the physical characteristics of millipedes, including their segmented bodies, color (typically brown or black), number of legs (approximate), and size range. Include images to aid identification.
• Common Species: Detail the specific species of millipedes most often encountered in Pennsylvania. Mention their scientific names (if appropriate), and highlight any key differences in appearance or behavior between species.

• Distinguishing from Centipedes: Explain the key differences between millipedes and centipedes, which are often confused. Emphasize differences in body shape, leg placement (millipedes have two pairs of legs per segment, centipedes have one), and behavior (millipedes are generally slower and less aggressive). A table might be helpful here:

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  Feature	Millipede	Centipede
  Body Shape	Cylindrical or slightly flattened	Flattened
  Legs per Segment	Two pairs	One pair
  Movement	Slow	Fast
  Diet	Decaying organic matter	Insects and other small creatures

Millipede Behavior and Habitat in Pennsylvania

• Preferred Environment: Describe the types of environments millipedes thrive in, specifically within Pennsylvania's climate and landscapes. This includes damp, dark places with abundant decaying organic matter like leaf litter, mulch, and compost piles.
• Seasonal Activity: Explain when millipedes are most active in Pennsylvania, generally during warm and humid months. Discuss why they sometimes invade homes, particularly during periods of heavy rain or drought, as they seek moisture and shelter.
• Feeding Habits: Detail what millipedes eat – primarily decaying plant matter, but also sometimes seedlings. Clarify that they are not typically a threat to structures or stored food.

Preventing Millipede Infestations

This section will focus on proactive steps homeowners can take to minimize the risk of millipede problems.

Outdoor Prevention Strategies

• Yard Maintenance:
  • Remove leaf litter, mulch, and other debris that provides millipedes with food and shelter.
  • Keep grass trimmed short.
  • Move compost piles and woodpiles away from the foundation of the house.
  • Ensure proper drainage to prevent standing water.
• Creating a Barrier:
  • Maintain a dry perimeter around the foundation.
  • Consider using gravel or other non-organic materials in a strip around the foundation.
  • Seal cracks and crevices in the foundation.

Indoor Prevention Strategies

• Sealing Entry Points:
  • Caulk around windows and door frames.
  • Seal gaps around pipes and wires entering the house.
  • Install door sweeps on exterior doors.
• Controlling Moisture:
  • Use dehumidifiers in damp basements or crawl spaces.
  • Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Repair leaky pipes and faucets.

Millipede Control Methods

This section will describe the options available to manage millipede infestations.

Natural Control Methods

• Manual Removal: Explain that physically removing millipedes is often sufficient for small infestations. This can be done by sweeping them up or using a vacuum cleaner.
• Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Describe how DE can be used as a natural insecticide. Explain how it works and how to apply it safely around the perimeter of the house or in areas where millipedes are found. Be sure to specify food grade diatomaceous earth.
• Beneficial Nematodes: Discuss the potential use of beneficial nematodes to control millipede populations in the soil. Explain how they work and where to purchase them.

Chemical Control Methods (Use with Caution)

• Perimeter Sprays: Explain that perimeter sprays containing insecticides can be used to create a barrier around the foundation of the house. Emphasize the importance of following label instructions carefully and using these products responsibly. List active ingredients often found in these products (e.g., pyrethroids).
• Indoor Insecticides: Mention that indoor insecticides can be used to treat infestations, but emphasize the importance of proper ventilation and avoiding contact with treated surfaces. Strongly advise reading and following all safety precautions and label instructions.
• Professional Pest Control: Recommend contacting a qualified pest control professional for severe or persistent infestations. Explain the benefits of professional treatment, including their expertise in identifying and treating millipede problems effectively and safely.

Safety Precautions

This short section emphasizes safe practice.

• Handling Millipedes: Remind readers to wash their hands thoroughly after handling millipedes.
• Using Insecticides: Reiterate the importance of following label instructions carefully when using any insecticide, and to keep pesticides out of reach of children and pets.
• Seeking Professional Help: Emphasize that professional pest control services can provide safe and effective solutions for millipede control.

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