Unfortunately, there is no simple answer. Both techniques have their advantages.
Termite baits:
- Are designed to suppress or eliminate termite colonies.
- They incorporate a slow-acting toxicant or growth regulator into cellulose-based termite food. The toxicants are delivered to the colony by foraging worker termites, which share their food with other colony members.
- Because of their precise delivery system and the small amounts of pesticide used, termite-baiting systems are thought to be the "safest" of the available termite treatment methods.
- Drawbacks include their higher expense and the unpredictable time delay between installation and termite feeding on baits.
- Pest control companies report a generally high level of satisfaction among their bait customers. To be effective long term, homes should be continually monitored for new termite activity.
Soil-applied liquid insecticides:
- Provide a fast, economical way to control termites.
Related Content
Find more information about pests in eXtensions Pest Management In and Around Structures Resource Area.

