The beginning of spring marks a time of renewal and rejuvenation. Birds are chirping, flowers are beginning to bloom, and animals are venturing out. Spring can be immensely enjoyable, but it can also bring a host of unwanted pest problems.

As we begin preparing for the spring and summer seasons, it’s important to keep pests as far away as possible.

Now that nature is bursting back to life, it’s time to start thinking about pest control tips for spring.

6 Spring Pest Control Tips

Common pests that return with new vigor in the spring include bees, ants, mosquitos, rodents and much more. Don’t let an infestation develop right under your nose.

Common Springtime Pests

• Cockroaches
• Ants
• Rats & Rodents
• Earwigs
• Silverfish
• Flies
• Mosquitos
• Bees & Wasps

Here are some things you can do to prevent common springtime pests:

1. Year-round maintenance with Commercial Pest Control Company

From sickness and disease to damage and disgust, pests can be disastrous for many reasons.

Even if you don’t have a pest problem now, pest prevention is always cheaper and easier than pest reaction. We highly recommend signing up for year-round maintenance with a professional pest control company such as ABC Home & Commercial Services.

2. Store and Dispose of Food/Waste Properly

Animals need food, water, and shelter to survive. Gardens, garbage, standing water, and pet food can all attract pests. If you get rid of all potential sources of water and food, your risk of pest problems falls dramatically.

• Follow proper cleaning and food storage processes.
• Keep trash bins tightly covered with tight-fitting, spring-loaded lids and be sure to empty them frequently.
• Store pet food in a sealed container indoors.
• Consider adding a fence around your garden, building raised beds, or constructing a cover.

Regular inspections and reports from a professional pest control company will provide the information necessary for specific strategies.

3. Control Moisture

Even a small pool of water or a leaking pipe can provide enough water to attract springtime pests. High humidity aids egg production in many pests.

• Repair plumbing leaks as soon as possible.
• Keep facilities at optimal temperature and humidity.
• Get rid of standing water, such as tires, bird baths, and pool covers.
• Trim tall grasses.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean and clear.
• Remove any wet or decaying wood, such as rotted stumps or timbers.
• Remove moisture collectors, such as tires.
• Keep your home well-ventilated and dry, especially basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

4. Inspect the Perimeter and Seal Entryways

Openings in your home provide the perfect entrance for unwanted guests. Inspect your property for potential entrance points for pests. Walk around the perimeter of your building, and pay close attention to areas where utilities enter (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.).

• Seal any gaps and cracks around the building.
• Repair any broken screens and windows.
• Replace any aging or worn weatherstripping.
• Trim back trees and shrubs that are touching your structure, hanging over your roof, or near your roofline.
• Keep pallets stored off the ground.
• Never leave any exterior-facing doors open.

Use weatherproof caulk for gaps and cracks smaller than ½ inch and expandable foam sealant for larger ones.

If you notice any pests or signs of pest presence, such as mud tubes and rotted wood, contact a licensed pest professional immediately.

5. Clean, Clean, Clean

It’s springtime for some cleaning. In addition to immediately cleaning up any food spills and ensuring food items are properly stored, take some time to do a full spring inspection and cleaning.

• Immediately clean up any food preparation.
• Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink (at least rinse or soak them).
• Never store food on the floor.
• Immediately repair cracks, holes, broken screens, and any other method of entry.
• Make sure trash is regularly and properly disposed of.
• Store food products in sealed containers at the proper temperature.
• Ensure a routine cleaning policy (sweeping, mopping, drain cleaning, waste removal, etc.).
• Conduct a deep cleaning and decluttering at least twice a year.

Snakes, bugs, and insects love to hide in trash and debris. Take time to clear away all the clutter from your property, such as brush piles and excess leaves. Don’t neglect the areas under porches, decks, and stairs.

6. Contact a Licensed Pest Professional as Soon as You Notice a Pest

Pests rarely travel alone. Where there’s one, there’s many. Even if you see just one of these pests this spring, contact a professional pest control company to take care of it before it becomes a full-blown infestation. Remember, the best way to maintain a pest-free environment for your home or business is by partnering with a certified pest management professional.

Need help with spring pests? Enjoy a pest-free environment this spring and all year long with ABC Home & Commercial Services.