UNINVITED GUESTS
5 of the most common pests that emerge in spring, according to experts
Spiders enter homes in search of food and shelter.
As warmer weather arrives, so do ants, termites, mosquitoes, ticks and spiders.
No one likes pests, especially when they're creeping around your kitchen. Here's a look at the insects you're most likely to encounter around your home and how to get rid of them.
1 Ants
The ants are guaranteed to go marching into your home this spring; these critters are the most active spring pests. Their colonies can reach the millions, according to Macy Ruiz, the technical services manager and board-certified entomologist at Terminix.
Ruiz said ants are most commonly found in kitchens, pantries and other areas where food is stored. He recommends reducing access to food, shelter and water resources. To do so, Ruiz suggests:
■ Keeping your pantry and kitchen clear of crumbs.
■ Refrigerating fruits and vegetables when possible.
■ Quickly cleaning up spills on floors and surfaces.
■ Keeping all food in sealed, airtight containers.
■ Promptly addressing any plumbing issues and eliminate any other sources of moisture.
“While many over-the-counter and DIY solutions are widely available, they often provide only temporary relief,” Ruiz says. “Because ant behavior varies by species, and colonies can be difficult to fully eliminate, persistent infestations are best addressed with the help of a pest control professional.”
2 Termites
Termite swarming season runs from February to June. Swarming is a “critical phase in the life cycle of termites that sets them apart from their usual, more hidden activities,” Ruiz says.
During swarming season, winged termites appear, signaling a potential existing, or impending, infestation. Termites tend to operate unseen but can cause significant damage to wooden structures.
Ruiz said early damage to homes can include:
■ Discarded wings near windows or doors.
■ Mud tubes on exterior walls.
■ Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
■ Visible damage to wood structures.
■ Presence of frass (termite droppings).
Some methods to prevent termites include:
■ Minimize wood-to-ground contact.
■ Clear mulch, plants and foliage from the immediate area around your home.
■ Manage moisture issues.
■ Schedule annual termite inspections with a professional.
3 Ticks
Ticks can be found nearly everywhere in the United States.
“Ticks are typically found in grassy, wooded or brushy areas where they wait to attach to passing hosts,” Mascari says. “It’s a common misconception that ticks are only found in the woods.”
The best way to remove ticks from your property is to keep up with general yard maintenance, especially around bushes that pets frequently brush up against. Clear out old leaves, furniture and equipment where ticks could hide.
“Add tick-repellent plants to your landscaping,” Smith says. “Lavender, rosemary and marigolds can be planted near where your family or pets spend time, as well as along the edge of your property. Natural barriers like gravel or wood chips can also be added to help keep them away.”
4 Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are commonly found anywhere that experiences wet and warm conditions.
“Mosquitoes are strongly associated with warm temperatures, humid environments and standing water, which serve as essential breeding habitats,” says Tom Mascari, an entomologist at the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science. “This makes them common in backyards, parks and near bodies of water.”
To prevent these frequent fliers from infesting your property, you should keep your grass mowed and trim overgrown plants.
Theresa Smith, senior vice president of NaturaLawn of America, warns that it’s especially important to remove pooling or standing water.
It’s impossible to remove mosquitoes completely, but homeowners can plant mosquito repellents like basil, catnip and lavender.
“Don’t forget to inspect your window and door screens to be sure they’re in good shape to let the breeze in while keeping mosquitoes and other insects out,” Smith adds.
5 Spiders
Spiders appear year-round, but they become more frequent indoors as they search for food, shelter, warmth or moisture. To reduce spider activities, Ruiz recommends vacuuming and dusting frequently. Homeowners should pay attention to corners, furniture and other undisturbed areas. Other maintenance tips include cleaning up crumbs, spills and other food debris.
DIY solutions for reducing spiders, like essential oils or soapy water, offer short-term results. Plants like mint, lavender and lemongrass reduce overall indoor insect activity.
“The only way to deter spiders is to minimize the insect activity around your home, so pest-proofing your home is the biggest deterrent in spider control,” Ruiz said. “If spider activity persists, homeowners should consult a pest control professional for a more targeted and customized approach.”
