Physical techniques typically involve the use of heat or cold to control pest populations. Depending on the exposure time, temperatures above 140 degrees F are usually sufficient to kill most anthropods. Cold temperatures can be used to kill most stages of arthropods, however, temperature and time of exposure are more variable than when using heat.
Mechanical devices have been used to manage pest populations for hundreds of years. Handpicking and pruning out infested branches are methods for removing small numbers of pests. Dethatching a turf area removes insects and can eliminate conditions conducive to their survival.
