Summer is right around the corner, and that means backyard barbecues, bonfires, gardening, and unfortunately, the re-emergence of insects and other pests. Luckily, once you know how to correctly identify common pests, you can take steps to remove them. Here are a few common spring pests in Michigan to look out for.
Mosquitos
Possibly the most infamous backyard insect, mosquitoes aren’t just pesky. They can carry dangerous diseases such as the West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), and both are dangerous to humans and animals. A mosquito infestation is easily identifiable by frequent bites. But, did you know mosquitos populate in areas of standing water and shade? Mosquito problems can easily be remedied by a professional pesticide application.
Moles
Although usually harmless to humans, moles can undo months of hard yard work overnight. Check your lawn for raised ridges in a zig-zag pattern, dead grass in a specific path, holes, and spongy patches. The fastest way to get rid of moles is by setting up bait and traps, which can be done easily by a pest control specialist.
Grub
Not only do grubs feed directly on grass, but they also feed on insects that are beneficial to a healthy lawn, like earthworms. These double-trouble insects can be identified by patches of thin grass that get bigger over time. Since grass isn’t usually in peak condition after the snow melts, people often suspect they have grubs in the spring. The only way to know for sure is by scouting for them on your lawn. Peel back a square foot of grass (preferably dead, if possible.), if you count more than ten grubs per square foot, you have a grub infestation, which will need to be treated by a professional. Even better, prevent them before they happen and hire a lawn care specialist to apply preventative treatment in the spring.
Flea & Ticks
Ticks do more than just thin out your lawn. If they attach to humans or pets, they can cause serious illnesses, like Lyme disease. Frequently finding ticks in your socks, pants, or pet’s fur is a good indicator you have a tick problem. If you still aren’t sure, cut a five-inch swatch of fabric or a white sheet, and attach it to a long pole. Drag the fabric around the edges of your lawn, and if you have ticks, they will transfer to the fabric. A lawn care specialist can treat this by applying insect control to areas highly trafficked by people and pets.
These are just a few common spring pests in Michigan to watch out for. Fortunately, you can leave it to HTA companies to apply preventative or treatment measures for all of the issues listed above. Give us a call today to guarantee a backyard full of summer fun – and nothing else.