Pest Index

Stinging insects such as various types of wasps, yellow-jackets, hornets and bees, are common summertime pests and their stings can be more than just a painful nuisance. The National Pest Management Association reports that stinging insects send more than half a million people to the emergency room every year. Those with allergies to stings are most at risk, although anyone can be affected if a large number of stinging insects swarm and sting at once.

One way to protect yourself and your family from types of stinging insects like wasps and hornets this summer is to ensure your property is free from hives and nests. On a routine basis, walk around the exterior of your home, paying special attention to overhangs, eaves, the underside of porches and decks for nests. Also inspect shrubs, trees, sheds and other structures. If you do find a nest on your property, do not attempt to remove it on your own. The colony can become defensive and attack.

Boxelder bugs get their common name from the fact that they are often found on and around boxelder trees. This species is native to the western states, but can be found from eastern Canada throughout the eastern United States, and west to eastern Nevada wherever boxelder trees are found.

In autumn, boxelder bugs become gregarious and congregate on the south side of rocks, trees and buildings where the sun hits. After large masses gather, they migrate to nearby buildings or homes to overwinter. These pests tend to hide in small cracks and crevices in walls to insulate themselves from the cold winter temperatures. In late March to early April, adults leave their overwintering sites to return to their host trees for the warmer months.

Regular Bug Barrier treatments will prevent boxelder bugs from entering your home.

Manage Mosquito Populations Around Your Yard

1. Drain anything that can hold over an inch of standing water.
2. Stop puddles from forming near faucets, gutters, and drains.
3. Always cover trash containers and recycling bins.
4. Keep your grass mowed, especially around high use areas.
5. Fill in any tree holes or stumps with sand.
6. Get rid of any tires or other items that can hold water.
7. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce hiding places.
8. Avoid leaving piles of leaves, grass, or wood around your property.
9. Have EnviroTurftreat your property with mosquito barrier protection.

Many species of spiders are common household pests in the United States. Spiders are considered a beneficial pest because of their prey to other insects and many people do not consider spider control measures for most spiders. Because spiders have eight legs, they are easy to separate from insects, which have only six legs. Another distinction between spiders and other pests is that spiders do not have wings or antennae. Spiders are arachnids.

Regular Bug Barrier treatments will create a protective barrier to keep spiders out all season long.

Tick Tips!

1. Keep your lawn maintained: Ticks like shaded, damp, and grassy areas. Keep grass cut and avoid having piles of sticks or leaves near the house.
2. DEET: Studies show using a bug repellent containing 20% DEET will help repel ticks.
3. Keep covered up: Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. Lightly colored clothing is recommended to spot ticks easier.
4. Tick Checks: Make it a habit to start checking for ticks. Check your kids, check your pets, and check yourself! Ankles, behind your knees, waistline, and armpits are tick hot spots!
5. Removal: If you are bit by a tick remove it as quickly as possible. Using tweezers get as close to the head as possible when removing. Be sure all of the tick is out and scrub the area with antibacterial soap. If you have flu like symptoms or a rash start go to the doctors right away and tell them about your tick bite!
6. Call a professional: An EnviroTurf Specialist can treat your lawn and other target areas for mosquito, fleas, and ticks!

Enjoy your lawn this season pest free!