Author: Wendy Holtz

Floridians know that as temperatures get hot, mosquitoes get active. We’ve all experienced these pesky bloodsuckers buzzing around in their relentless quest for a meal. But have you ever wondered if wearing clothes is a good barrier against these nuisances—and potentially dangerous—pests? Read on to learn the truth behind this common myth, as well as effective ways to protect your family from mosquitoes this summer.

Clothes Don’t Keep Mosquitoes Away

As much as we may wish it were true, donning a long-sleeved shirt and pants won’t always keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay. While it’s true that mosquitoes prefer direct access to skin, they’re not above biting through clothing if given the opportunity. Their needle-like mouthparts can pierce through fabrics—including jeans and your favorite t-shirt—leaving itchy bites behind.

Learn More: What Is the New Invasive Bug in Florida?

Top 4 Mosquito Prevention Tips

While it’s true that covering your skin with clothing isn’t an effective way to keep mosquitoes from biting, there are some mosquito prevention methods that help keep these nasty pests at bay:

1. Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so it is essential to remove any container or area that can hold water. Check for areas with standing water like flowerpots, bird baths, gutters, and tree holes. If you have a birdbath, replace the water every few days. Keep empty containers upside down or covered, especially after rains.

2. Use Mosquito Repellents: A mosquito repellent can be a lifesaver when it comes to protecting yourself from mosquitoes. Use mosquito creams, lotions, and sprays when you head outdoors, especially during dusk and dawn. For added protection, wear clothes that cover most of your body, and also use a mosquito net while sleeping.

3. Install Window Screens: Installing window screens is a simple yet effective way to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Install window screens on all windows and doors, and make sure they do not have any holes or gaps. Keep the windows closed in the evening and night when the mosquitoes are most active.

4. Plant Mosquito-Repellent Plants: Certain plants like lavender, marigold, and citronella are considered natural mosquito-repellent plants. These plants emit a fragrance that is unpleasant to mosquitoes and keeps them away. Planting these plants outside your home or keeping them indoors can help keep the mosquitoes at bay.

Learn More: How Can I Control Mosquitoes at an Outdoor Event?

The Best Way to Prevent Mosquitoes in Your Yard

Summer evenings should be spent relaxing with a cold drink, not swatting frantically at pesky mosquitoes. These insects not only ruin a peaceful evening, but they also pose a danger to you and your family’s health by carrying diseases. The good news is that you don’t have to accept mosquitoes as a fact of life any longer. Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control’s mosquito control program is the solution you’ve been searching for.

With our eco-friendly solutions, you can say goodbye to irritating bites and the worry of mosquito-borne illnesses. Our effective treatment will eliminate adult mosquitoes and prevent their offspring from maturing, ensuring that your yard is a comfortable and safe haven all season long. Call the mosquito control experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Apopka today at (407) 880-6655 to enjoy a mosquito-free summer!

Living in Florida certainly comes with many perks – sunshine, beautiful beaches, and mild temperatures year-round—but it also means dealing with not-so-welcome guests, such as termites. So, when should homeowners be on the lookout for termites, and what are the signs to look for? Read on to learn everything you need to know about termite activity in Florida.

When Is Termite Season in Florida?

Thanks to Florida’s warm, humid climate, there really is no “termite season” in The Sunshine State—these nuisance pests are active almost year-round. That means homeowners must be vigilant against termites even during the colder months of the year.

Termites do have a season when they swarm, though, and it’s often a stressful time for Florida homeowners. Typically, termite swarm season occurs in the spring and early summer when the weather is warm and there is plenty of moisture in the air. During this time, winged termites will emerge from their colonies in search of a mate and a new place to establish a colony. They thrive in the warm weather of spring and early summer, as Florida’s climate enables them to breed, work, and spread very easily.

Learn More: 3 Things You Need to Know About Termite Swarm Season

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Homeowners in Florida always need to be alert and proactive when it comes to termite infestations—but during the spring, vigilance should be taken up a notch. If you notice any of the following signs of a termite infestation, call your local termite control experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control right away:

• Swarmers: One of the most obvious signs of termite infestation includes swarmers. Swarmers are termites that leave their nests to mate and start a new colony. They are typically around 1/4 inch in length with long wings that are almost twice their body size. During swarming season, you may notice many of these tiny creatures flying around your home, especially near windows and light sources.

• Hollow Sounds: Termites attack the structure of your home, mostly targeting wood. They chew on wood from the inside out, leaving behind only a thin layer of painted or surfaced wood. This makes the wood sound hollow when tapped on.

• Mud Tubes: Termites create mud tubes, which are tunnels made of soil, wood particles, and termite saliva. These tubes connect the termites’ underground colonies to their food sources, which are typically the wooden structures in and around your home. These tubes are the size of a pencil or smaller, and you may find them running horizontally or vertically along the foundation of your home.

• Blisters in Wood: Termites create blister-like protrusions on the surface of wood as they feed on it. These bumps come about due to the moisture left behind as termites chew on the wooden structure. These bumps can take a while to manifest, but if you’ve noticed that in your wooden structures, then it’s time for a professional termite inspection.

• Damaged Doors and Windows: Termites attack wooden structures, leading to weakened structures that may not hold up. You may notice that your doors or windows are not operating as smoothly as they used to or are becoming harder to open and close. This means termites have damaged the wooden frames, and you may need to repair or replace these structures.

Learn More: 4 Signs There Are Termites in Your House & How We Can Help

Call the Termite Control Experts and Protect Your Home

If you’ve noticed any of the signs of termite activity described above, contact the termite control experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Apopka right away. Prevent termites from destroying your home by calling us today at (407) 880-6655 for your free termite inspection.

Do you want to have a lush and beautiful lawn in your Florida home, but feel limited in your choices? Well, you’re not alone. The humidity, salty conditions, and extreme weather we experience here can make it challenging to maintain healthy grass. But don’t give up on your dream of a green lawn just yet. Read on to learn about the best grass types for your Florida home that can withstand the state’s unique conditions and still look stunning.

1. Augustine Grass

 

St. Augustine Grass is one of the most popular grass types for Florida homes. It’s not only gorgeous, but it is drought-resistant and quick-growing. It can tolerate shade, salt, and moisture with ease. However, its growth rate also makes it essential to keep up with maintenance. Plan to mow it about once a week and fertilize it once a year for the best results.

Learn More: Our Guide to Deciding What Kind of Grass You Want for Your Lawn

2. Bermuda Grass

Bermuda Grass is one of the most popular and toughest grass types for Florida. It has deep roots that resist drought, weeds, and high traffic. Bermuda Grass grows fast and doesn’t require too much maintenance, making it a great choice for homeowners who don’t have the time to dedicate to lawn care.

3. Bahiagrass

Bahiagrass is tailor-made for Florida’s harsh weather conditions. It is resistant to stress, sun, drought, and salt, making it a perfect choice for Florida homes. Bahiagrass needs regular maintenance, such as fertilizing, watering, and mowing. But, the effort pays off as Bahiagrass can survive with minimal irrigation.

4. Zoysia Grass

Zoysia Grass is a popular choice due to its turf-like appearance and tolerance to foot traffic. It’s perfect for homeowners with active families and pets. Zoysia Grass is not only drought tolerant, but it’s also disease-resistant, making it an excellent choice for those who want a low-maintenance lawn.

5. Seashore Paspalum

This grass type is perfect if you live near the beach. It’s tolerant of salt and can thrive in sandy soils. It also requires less fertilization than other grass types and can withstand saltwater flooding, making it the perfect choice for beachfront properties.

Learn More: Best Native Grasses for Your Central Florida Home

The Perfect Florida Lawn Is Just a Phone Call Away

There are several grass types that tolerate Florida’s unique climate very well—but that doesn’t mean your turf will grow well on its own. All grass types are susceptible to Florida’s unique weather conditions, as well as threats like pests and disease. If you’re ready to enjoy the picture-perfect lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood, reach out to the lawn care experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Orlando today! Our lawn care program includes everything it takes to keep your lawn lush, healthy, and green. Call us today at (407) 880-6655 for your free estimate.

Termites are a common problem in Florida, and they can cause extensive damage to your home if left untreated. The state’s humid and warm climate provides a perfect environment for these pests, leaving homeowners wondering how often they should be treating their homes for termites. Read on to discover the basics about termite treatments and the frequency required to keep your home safe.

Understanding Your Termite Treatment Options

Before deciding on how often you should treat your home for termites, you need to understand the different treatment options available. The most common treatment methods include liquid treatments, bait systems, and fumigation. Liquid treatments involve digging trenches around the perimeter of the home and treating the soil beneath and around the foundation.

On the other hand, bait systems involve placing small amounts of pesticide in a container that attracts termites, while fumigation entails tenting your entire home and filling it with a gas that kills the termites. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for your home depends on factors such as the severity of the infestation and the type of termites.

Learn More: 5 Things You Should Know About Termite Season

Frequency of Termite Treatments

The frequency of termite treatments depends on various factors such as the type of treatment, the severity of the infestation, and the surrounding environment. Liquid treatments and bait systems typically require annual inspections and re-treatments, while fumigation can provide long-lasting protection for up to five years. It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and you should have a professional evaluate your home to determine the optimal treatment interval for your specific situation.

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Apart from knowing how often to treat your home for termites, you need to be able to identify the signs of a termite infestation. These include:

• Mud tubes around your foundation
• Piles of discarded nymph wings
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact the termite control experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control as soon as possible. Remember that termites can cause significant damage to your home’s structure, leading to expensive repairs.

Learn More: 3 Things You Need to Know About Termite Swarm Season

Prevention is Key

The best way to protect your home from termites is to prevent an infestation from occurring in the first place. Some prevention methods include keeping plants and mulch away from the foundation, removing dead or decaying wood from your property, and fixing leaking pipes and faucets promptly. It’s also crucial to have annual inspections conducted by the termite control experts at Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control to detect any potential issues early on.

Termites Are a Constant Threat to Florida Homeowners

Termites are a significant threat to homeowners in Florida, and treating your home for termites should be a top priority. How often you should treat your home depends on various factors, but annual inspections and treatments are typically recommended. Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Debary is your partner in termite prevention. We provide effective, eco-friendly termite control treatments that protect your home from the costly damage caused by these pests. Call us today at (407) 880-6655 for your free termite inspection!