Others are weak vulnerable to killing blows from the current growing season s insects and plant diseases. If you dig it out and replace it, you most likely breach the building s termite barrier, too. But if you just leave the dead plant or its roots never disturbing the soil the result can be worse. Dead roots are instant termite food, as well as a bridge that wood-eating insects can use to reach a structure. As buildings age, they tend to encourage termite entry.
Termites can get through tiny cracks in foundations or the calking around pipes, doors and windows.
Homes practically issue an invitation with moisture buildup around blocked vents or inefficient downspouts. Unfortunately, Kansans false sense of security also is based on the fact that stores sell termite-controlling chemicals, the entomologist said. Those products do kill termites. But there s no way you can use them to protect your home successfully, unless you have the required special equipment. That s why they usually start to swarm every spring, once a colony has reached maturity.