Killing Roaches Outside with Spray Insecticide and Granular Bait

Instructions

A. Find Cockroach Entry Points

1. Before you start, it’s important to identify exactly how
   cockroaches are getting in and where their entry points are. For more on this
   step, see our printable Roach-Free Recipe for finding roaches.
   Then, take a few minutes to rake or sweep any leaves, twigs or other debris
   away from areas you’re going to treat.

B. Purchase Supplies and Read Product Labels

1. Purchase a 1-gallon spray tank. Liquid insecticide needs to be diluted with plenty of water for spraying.
2. Purchase a package of disposable gloves and a pair of safety glasses.
3. Read all instructions and warnings on product labels before using an insecticide or bait.

C. Mix the Insecticide Spray

1. Start by filling your spray tank about halfway with water.
2. Measure the appropriate amount of insecticide (usually 1/2–1 oz) according to the label.
3. If the bottle features a squeeze-and-pour mechanism, remove the cap and seal from the side with the small compartment and gently squeeze until the liquid reaches the appropriate measurement mark.
4. If the bottle features a tip-and-pour mechanism, tip the bottle slowly so that the liquid pours from the large compartment into the small compartment. Then, tip it back so the right amount remains in the measuring compartment.
5. Add the insecticide to the spray tank. Continue filling the spray tank with water until you reach its fill line (or the required amount).

D. Use the Sprayer to Apply the Insecticide

1. Pressurize the sprayer by pumping the handle repeatedly.
2. Hold the trigger on the wand to activate the sprayer.
3. The Chapin sprayer also has a locking mechanism to enable a continuous spray.
4. Simply carry the tank by the handle in one hand and aim the hose with the other.
5. Twist the nozzle to adjust between a narrow and wide spray.

E. Where to Apply Insecticide Spray

1. It’s important to spray all of the target locations you identified in the first step.
2. Treat air conditioning lines, pipes and wires thoroughly.
3. Also, spray around any bathroom, stove or laundry vents near the ground. Turn the nozzle upside down to reach beneath those that stick out from the wall.
4. Treat all cracks and crevices in the ground or foundation around your home.
5. Spray window and door frames that might be worn or cracked.
6. Apply the insecticide to the mulch or stone along exterior walls and gutters where leaves and debris tend to gather.

F. How to Apply Granular Roach Bait

1. If applying by hand, use a plastic scoop (or wear durable, disposable gloves) to sprinkle the granules in wide arcs around the perimeter of your house. Some ice melt shakers will work, too.
2. Walk slowly all the way around your home, spreading granules evenly in the mulch, soil and grass along walls.
3. Treat fence lines, crevices in pavements, flower beds and the areas around your garage or shed.
4. If you’re treating a large area of land, use a spreader (handheld or on wheels) to apply the granules evenly.
5. If you apply around sidewalks or other nonporous surfaces, sweep the granules into the grass or soil after you’ve finished spreading.
6. Apply extra granules to high-risk areas, including flower beds, sprinkler valves and hose bibbs.
7. If your bait recommends wetting the granules after spreading, just fill your sprayer from before with clean water and lightly wet the areas you’ve treated.
8. Further reading: Kill Indoor Roaches with Insecticidal Dust