German Cockroaches

Summary: When it comes to cockroach control most people will scream “No mercy!” The problem is that some roach pesticides will poison you too! Here are a few non-toxic solutions to get rid of cockroaches.

Ray A; Bessemer, AL asks: What are all the different illness or irritations that are caused by cockroaches and how do you kill them with over the counter pest controls sprays?

Dear Ray: German cockroach feces, saliva, eggs, and outer covering, or cuticles, left behind on surfaces contain substances that are allergenic to humans, especially those with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Cockroaches may carry pathogenic organisms, disease-causing bacteria and fungi that can be passed on to humans through surface and food contamination. Salmonella in food is one of the most common pathogens that cockroaches can transmit to humans.

In my opinion, products such as the Maxforce roach bait are the best method to obtain control of German cockroaches. Baits attract the insect to feed, whereas liquid pesticide treatments repel

insects. Gel baits also last a lot longer than liquid insecticides. The biggest issue is understanding the habits of cockroaches and knowing where to place the bait. There are so many variations, but I can tell you that German roaches prefer cracks and crevices to open surfaces. Therefore, focus your treatments on the areas where you most commonly see roaches, then determine what cracks you need to apply the gel. You only need about a one-half inch line of gel to do the job in each spot. Dark areas (roaches are nocturnal) are best.  Roaches are sensitive to air and avoid places with ventilation, so look for places where there is little or no air movement.

Once you apply the gel bait you must not apply any liquid insecticides. Liquid insecticides will contaminate roach baits. 

Make sure it's the German cockroach you are battling. German cockroaches are commonly found in kitchens. If it is a diffrent type of cockroach the treatments would vary. My suggestion would be to take a sample roach to have it properly identified. Once you know exactly what you have you will better understand what control steps are required.