What should I do if mice appear in the greenhouse? - briefly
Inspect and seal all gaps, install snap or live traps, and eliminate accessible food and water sources; then monitor regularly to ensure no new activity. If infestation persists, consult a professional pest‑control service for targeted treatment.
What should I do if mice appear in the greenhouse? - in detail
When rodents are detected in a greenhouse, immediate action is required to protect crops and infrastructure. Begin with a thorough inspection to locate entry points, nesting sites, and signs of activity such as droppings, gnawed material, and tracks. Seal all openings larger than a quarter‑inch with steel wool, metal flashing, or cement; prioritize gaps around doors, vents, utility lines, and foundation cracks.
Next, reduce attractants. Remove spilled seed, fruit, and vegetable debris daily. Store feed and organic matter in sealed containers. Keep the floor dry; excess moisture encourages nesting. Regularly clean work surfaces and dispose of waste in closed bins.
Implement control measures:
- Physical traps: Place snap traps or multi‑catch live traps along walls, near suspected pathways, and close to food sources. Bait with peanut butter, oats, or dried fruit. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
- Mechanical barriers: Install rodent‑proof screens on vents and exhaust openings. Use solid‑core doors with self‑closing mechanisms.
- Chemical deterrents: Apply rodent‑specific rodenticides only in accordance with label instructions and local regulations. Use bait stations placed out of reach of non‑target species and children. Consider low‑toxicity products that degrade quickly to minimize residue on plants.
- Biological control: Encourage natural predators such as barn owls by installing nesting boxes, or employ ferrets for short‑term removal in larger facilities.
After initial control, maintain a monitoring program. Place non‑lethal detection devices (e.g., chew cards) at strategic points and record activity weekly. Adjust trap placement and barrier integrity based on findings. Conduct seasonal reviews, as rodent pressure often increases in cooler months when they seek shelter.
Document all actions, including dates of inspection, trap counts, and any chemical applications. This record supports compliance with agricultural safety standards and facilitates future pest‑management planning.