NPMA Releases Spring & Summer Bug Barometer 2024

According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), there could be above-average pest activity this spring. Although pest activity typically increases every spring, this year, the weather forecast suggests that warm temperatures and increased rainfall could lead to a more significant pest population growth during the spring and summer months. If you live in Florence, Myrtle Beach, or elsewhere in the Pee Dee and Grand Strand regions, you should be aware of two pests: mosquitoes and termites.

Expect to see notable termite activity

Mosquitoes aren't the only insects that increase reproduction in response to warm temperatures and elevated moisture. These conditions increase termite activity as well. Here are a few reasons why:

• Worker termites need moisture to stay hydrated. Increased moisture pooled, especially by decks and wood materials, gets termites moving.
• Worker termites need high humidity to come out of the ground to feed on above-ground wood sources.
• Worker termites are strongly attracted to properties that have decaying wood sources, which are plentiful in damp conditions.
• Worker termites are most active when they're warm.

The NPMA Barometer tracks past weather patterns, evaluates predicted patterns, and considers the biology of common pests. Entomologists say that, if the Southeast experiences a wetter-than-usual spring as predicted, mosquitoes and termites will thrive. 

What’s the best way to prevent mosquitoes in your backyard?

When warm temperatures bring mosquito activity, they'll start looking for stagnant water. You can make your property less of a target by addressing these conditions. Here are a few mosquito prevention tips you should implement:

• Remove buckets, spare tires, flowerpots, and other objects that collect and hold rainwater.
• Turn canoes, wheelbarrows, and other items over.
• Clear your gutters of twigs, leaves, and other debris so that water can freely move.
• Make sure downspouts and splash blocks divert water away from the foundation.
• Mow your lawn and remove weeds regularly.
• Cover outdoor trash cans.
• Refresh bird baths and other water features frequently.
• Repair leaks, such as dripping exterior faucets.
• Don’t let water from your central air conditioner’s condensate drain line puddle next to your foundation.

While the tips above can reduce mosquito breeding and resting sites, the best way to eliminate mosquitoes is by contacting Harris Pest Control. Our locally-owned and family-operated pest control company offers seasonal mosquito control that includes monthly mosquito treatments from April – September. During each service, we will spray your property, targeting areas where these biting pests rest and where they breed.

How to get rid of termites in the Pee Dee & Grand Strand areas

If you want to make sure your property does not attract termites, we recommend the following termite prevention tips:

• Address moisture problems in your crawl space.
• Replace water-damaged wood in your home.
• Repair leaking fixtures and appliances.
• Seal cracks, gaps, and openings from the foundation to the roofline.
• Haul away tree limbs, leaf litter, and other organic debris that have accumulated in your yard.
• Reduce wood-to-soil contact around your house.
• Check to see that your gutters are working properly.
• Keep your lawn regularly.
• Trim back shrubs, bushes, and other landscaping to help airflow.

Since termites are always a threat to South Carolina homes, professional termite control is a must! Here at Harris Pest Control, we offer effective termite control services that not only eliminate termites already active on your property but also prevent new termite colonies from developing. When you contact us for termite protection, we will:

• Inspect your property for termites, termite damage, and other signs of termites.
• Review our findings and recommend a solution that could include a liquid termite treatment or installation of the Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System.
• Issue you a renewable and transferrable termite re-treatment warranty.

Stop mosquitoes & termites this spring

The NPMA Bug Barometer is a great way to gauge pest pressures, and it gives you advance warning so you can do something about them. Now is the time to take steps to reduce pest activity and block access to your home. If you want a stress-free and effective solution, Harris Pest Control is here to help. In fact, check out our year-round home pest control plan that targets both biting mosquitoes and wood-destroying termites!