In Florida, heavy rains and sudden floods are not just disruptive, they create the ideal conditions for pests to invade your home. Waterlogged soil, backed-up drains, and soaked building materials open the door to a range of infestations that can take hold quickly.

As a local provider, Florida Pest Control understands the unique pest pressures flooding can cause in our subtropical climate. Here’s what to watch for and how to keep your home protected with our residential pest control services.

Why Flooding Increases Pest Activity

Floodwaters force pests out of their natural habitats. Rodents are displaced from burrows, ants flee submerged nests, and insects like mosquitoes and cockroaches multiply in the warm, damp aftermath. In Florida, where standing water and humid conditions are already common, flooding amplifies these issues tenfold.

Pests Commonly Found After Flooding in Florida

• Mosquitoes: Standing water left behind becomes a breeding ground within days.
• Rats and mice: Strong swimmers that seek dry shelter in attics, garages, or wall voids.
• Fire ants: Form floating colonies and relocate rapidly to higher ground, including yards and homes.
• Cockroaches: Often emerge from storm drains and plumbing systems during floods.
• Termites: Water-damaged wood invites termite activity, compounding structural damage.
• Small flies: Like phorid flies and fungus gnats, thrive in wet organic matter and mold-prone areas.

Flood Prep and Recovery Tips for Florida Homes

Before the Flood

While floods can happen suddenly, some proactive steps can help reduce pest risk. Our technicians recommend checking that outdoor drains are clear and functional. Seal entry points around doors, crawlspaces, and utility lines. Move firewood, mulch, or storage items away from the home’s foundation. If flooding is forecast, secure trash bins and cover potential water collection areas like garden pots or children’s toys.

If your home is in a flood-prone zone, a preventative pest treatment or inspection may be worthwhile to identify high-risk areas and apply deterrents in advance.

After the Flood

Once water recedes, cleanup should focus on more than debris removal. Start by clearing out waterlogged materials that could attract pests. Remove wet cardboard, food waste, or soaked insulation, and ventilate the property as much as possible to speed up drying.

Inspect areas like under sinks, behind appliances, and around HVAC systems. These are hotspots for moisture and pest activity. Look for droppings, nests, or signs of gnawing, especially from rodents. Termite activity can be triggered by water-damaged wood, so watch for bubbling paint, mud tubes, or soft wood along baseboards.

To limit mosquito breeding, drain or tip out all standing water, flowerpots, birdbaths, and gutters included.

Florida Pest Control Can Help Protect Your Home

Flood-related pest problems can escalate quickly. Our local technicians are trained to respond fast and treat the specific pest pressures that follow Florida flooding. From mosquito reduction to rodent exclusion and home protection, we’re here to help.

Schedule a post-flood inspection or get help with mosquito and rodent control.

Protect what matters most.

Get expert help from Florida Pest Control today!

Florida residents are no strangers to hurricanes. From securing outdoor furniture to stocking up on essentials, storm prep is second nature. But what many don’t consider is the quiet wave of pest activity that follows in a hurricane’s wake. Flooded yards, structural damage, and standing water create an open invitation for unwanted guests, from mosquitoes to rodents.

Understanding how hurricanes affect local pest behavior can help you take quick action to protect your home and family.

What Happens to Pests During a Hurricane?

Hurricanes disrupt natural habitats, pushing pests out of their hiding places and into new environments, including yours. Insects like mosquitoes thrive in the aftermath, while rodents and ants search for dry shelter. Even sewer-dwelling pests like cockroaches can find their way indoors when floodwaters rise.

If left unchecked, these intrusions can quickly turn into infestations.

Why Hurricanes Trigger Pest Surges

The heavy rains and high winds that come with hurricanes do more than damage buildings, they destroy habitats. Pests are forced to relocate, and in their search for food and shelter, your home can become the next best option.

Mosquitoes

Standing water left behind by heavy rainfall creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Just a few days of water in buckets, clogged gutters, or puddles can lead to a spike in population.

Rats and Mice

Rodents are excellent swimmers and often relocate after flooding. Damaged buildings and open entry points make homes vulnerable to new infestations as they seek dry shelter.

Cockroaches

Hurricanes can cause sewer systems to back up, pushing large cockroaches like the American cockroach to seek higher ground, often inside homes.

Fire Ants

Displaced by floodwaters, fire ants can form floating colonies and relocate rapidly, posing a risk to anyone clearing debris.

Termites & Small Flies

Water-damaged wood and increased moisture create the ideal environment for termites and fungus gnats or phorid flies.

Don’t Let Pests Add to the Damage

You can’t control the weather, but you can limit its pest-related aftermath. Here’s how:

Before the storm:

• Clear gutters and drains to reduce mosquito breeding zones
• Check screens, door sweeps, and vents for holes
• Store outdoor items that can collect water
• Trim tree branches touching your roofline
• Seal cracks and gaps around doors and windows

After the storm:

• Dump out water from planters, bins, and toys
• Remove storm debris that offers shelter to pests
• Look for rodent droppings in attics and garages
• Watch for increased insect activity, especially at night

Being proactive keeps you one step ahead of infestations.

Florida Pest Control Is Here to Help

Florida’s year-round warmth and high humidity mean pest pressures are constant, even more so after a storm. That’s why local knowledge matters. Timing is everything after a storm. Whether it is overall pest control or specialist services like our mosquito control options. The sooner you identify pest risks, the easier they are to treat. As a Florida-based provider, we understand the unique pest pressures that come with the season. Our trained technicians know what to look for and how to stop problems before they grow.

Don’t Let Pests Add to the Damage

Your home has weathered the storm, don’t let pests cause more trouble. Florida Pest Control is ready to support your recovery with expert inspections and seasonal pest solutions. We also offer home services you can put in place before a natural disaster strikes to reduce pest risks that may occur. Protect what matters most.

Book your pest inspection today!

Keep Guests Happy and Reviews Clean

Florida’s vacation rental market is booming but it comes with unique challenges. One of the most overlooked risks to both guest satisfaction and online reviews? Pests. Whether it’s ants in the kitchen or a fly buzzing around the bathroom, even minor issues can damage a guest’s experience and your property’s reputation.

Why Florida Vacation Rentals Face Higher Pest Pressure

Unlike hotels, which often have consistent maintenance schedules, vacation rentals vary widely in how often and how thoroughly they’re cleaned. One property may receive a deep clean between guests, while another may get only a quick tidy-up. That inconsistency, paired with Florida’s warm, humid climate, creates the perfect conditions for pests to thrive.

Add to that seasonal traffic patterns, back-to-back bookings, and guests who may leave crumbs, trash, or open food behind, and you have a recipe for infestation. Pests don’t need much to settle in, and once they do, they’re not easy to remove without disrupting future stays.

Common Pests in Florida Rental Properties

The most frequently reported pests in Florida vacation homes include:

• Ants: Attracted to sugary spills, open food, and crumbs on floors or countertops.
• Cockroaches: Thrive in warm, damp areas like under sinks or behind appliances.
• Flies: Multiply quickly and are drawn to uncovered trash, fruit bowls, and drains.
• Mosquitoes: Can breed in outdoor spaces with standing water and sneak in through open doors.
• Rodents: In cooler months, rats and mice may seek shelter in attics, crawlspaces, or wall voids. 

These pests can enter through small cracks, open windows, or doors left ajar. Once inside, they can spread quickly, especially if the property sits vacant for even a few days without being checked.

The Impact on Guest Experience and Reviews

Most vacation rental guests expect a hotel-level standard of cleanliness. Even something as simple as a fly buzzing around a bedroom lamp can feel unacceptable. Worse, guests often turn to public review platforms to vent their frustrations. One pest-related review can deter dozens of future bookings. Florida Pest Control commercial services help prevent these situations with consistent protection between guest stays.

Pest issues also increase the risk of refund requests, lost revenue, and additional cleaning or treatment costs. And if left unresolved, infestations can trigger property damage, such as chewed wiring or stained surfaces.

Pest Prevention Tips Between Guest Stays

The best defense is a consistent, proactive plan. Property managers and vacation homeowners should:

• Inspect regularly: Look for signs of activity like droppings, dead insects, or nesting material.
• Seal gaps: Ensure doors, windows, and utility openings are properly sealed.
• Schedule deep cleans: At regular intervals, go beyond surface cleaning to target drains, bins, and less-visible areas.
• Manage moisture: Fix leaks and ensure areas like kitchens and bathrooms are well-ventilated.
• Empty trash: Ensure trash cans (indoor and outdoor) are emptied, cleaned, and sealed before each new guest arrives.

It’s also a good idea to leave pest prevention guidance for cleaning crews or turnover teams so they know what to look for and how to report early signs of a problem.

Seasonal Considerations for Florida Rentals

Florida’s climate varies from region to region and season to season and so does pest behavior. For example:

• Summer brings more flies, ants, and mosquito activity due to heat and rain.
• Fall and winter see an increase in rodents moving indoors to escape cooler temperatures.
• Hurricane season can drive pests to seek higher, drier shelter, like inside your property.

Working with a pest control provider who understands Florida’s seasonal cycles can help tailor service to the specific times pests are most likely to strike.

Protecting Your Investment and Your Guests

Vacation rentals are more than properties, they’re businesses built on trust, guest experience, and consistent quality. Pest issues can quickly erode that trust, no matter how stunning the décor or well-stocked the amenities.

Whether you’re managing a single beachside unit or overseeing multiple properties, a proactive pest control strategy is essential. Regular inspections, seasonal treatments, and awareness across your cleaning and turnover teams all contribute to a smooth operation and satisfied guests.

With Florida’s year-round pest pressure, it pays to be proactive. Because no one leaves a five-star review when they see a cockroach in the kitchen. 

Contact us today for assistance with controlling pests in your property portfolio.

Florida’s warm, humid climate may be perfect for palm trees and tourism, but it also creates ideal conditions for flies. For property managers overseeing multi-family homes, apartment blocks, or vacation rentals, fly problems are more than a nuisance. They can affect tenant satisfaction, impact compliance, and damage reputations.

So why do fly issues keep coming back, even when you’re doing everything right?

The answer often lies in what’s missed. Fly breeding can begin in areas that aren’t part of routine cleaning, and once it starts, it spreads fast. Understanding what attracts flies, how they multiply, and where they hide is key to stopping the cycle.

Fly Life Cycle Issues in Florida Buildings

In Florida’s warm climate, flies can complete their life cycle, from egg to adult, in just 10 days. Once mature, they reproduce quickly, feeding on everything from sugary spills to decomposing matter in bins and drains. Their ability to breed rapidly makes it critical to address fly issues early before they spread.

Most infestations don’t begin with visible fly activity. Instead, they start in warm, damp areas like mop sinks, floor drains, and trash storage rooms. These environments provide the perfect conditions for fly eggs and larvae to develop. If left untreated, these areas become breeding grounds, leading to fly problems across multiple units or buildings.

Preventing the spread of fly infestations in Florida buildings requires early detection and proactive measures. Routine inspections of high-risk areas, regular drain and bin cleaning, and proper waste management can help reduce fly breeding sites. Additionally, installing fly traps and implementing proactive pest control measures can significantly mitigate the risk of infestations, keeping your property clean and compliant.

Managing Fly Risks Infographic

For a visual guide on how to tackle fly infestations in Florida buildings, download our Fly Control and Prevention Infographic.

Download Your Copy

Common Fly Hotspots in Managed Properties

Even well-maintained properties can have hidden fly hotspots. Flies don’t need much to thrive, just moisture, organic buildup, and a small window of opportunity. While janitorial teams may clean what’s visible, less obvious trouble spots are often overlooked, providing the perfect environment for flies to breed.

Flies commonly gather and breed in areas such as:

• Garbage chutes or recycling zones that stay damp
• Overflowing drain pans in HVAC closets
• Sink drains with organic buildup
• Trash bins left uncovered or unemptied

These conditions attract a range of species, including house flies, fruit flies, and drain flies. Left unchecked, even small sanitation gaps can lead to infestations that spread across shared spaces and multiple units.

Fly Sightings Signal Underlying Issues

A few flies might seem harmless, but for property managers, they’re often a sign of deeper maintenance or sanitation problems.

Repeated fly activity can point to:

• Missed service coverage across multi-site portfolios
• Blocked or untreated drains
• Infrequent bin cleaning or removal
• Gaps between pest control visits

Addressing the source early can prevent tenant complaints, protect online ratings, and reduce the likelihood of recurring infestations. Regular, proactive maintenance is key to keeping fly issues under control and ensuring the long-term health of the property.

How Property Managers Can Reduce Fly Problems

Fly control starts with consistency, visibility, and targeted support. Florida property managers can strengthen their approach with the following:

Start by scheduling routine checks of high-risk areas like dumpster pads, kitchens, and utility rooms. Make sure your on-site staff knows what to look for and when to report concerns. Ask your pest control partner about solutions beyond surface treatments. Services like drain line treatment, entry-point sealing, and LED fly light technology can significantly reduce fly activity in shared spaces. These tools don’t just eliminate visible flies – they disrupt the breeding cycle and improve sanitation long term.

Standardizing service across properties, especially during Florida’s peak heat and rain months, can make a big difference.

To address issues like untreated drains and recurring infestations, Florida Pest Control offers targeted fly control services built for properties with high turnover and shared amenities. For portfolio managers, our Property Management Solutions help streamline protection across every site.

Book a Fly Control Inspection Today

Fly infestations don’t go away on their own. They often return when one piece of the puzzle is missed, like a forgotten bin area or untreated drain. A single oversight can restart the cycle.

With decades of experience protecting Florida properties from climate-driven pest challenges, Florida Pest Control understands how to adapt strategies for everything from beachfront rentals to urban apartment complexes. Book an inspection with Florida Pest Control and get expert recommendations tailored to the unique layout and needs of your properties. A proactive approach can help protect your spaces, reassure tenants, and reduce service calls over time.

How to Train Staff to Prevent Them

In Florida’s competitive hospitality industry, first impressions matter and so does what’s lurking behind the walls. Hotel pest control in Florida is not just about treating visible issues. Pests are a direct threat to your reputation, your bottom line, and your guest satisfaction scores. A single online review mentioning a cockroach or bed bug can undo months of marketing effort and lead to costly consequences. When you invest in reliable hotel pest control in Florida, you protect every aspect of the guest experience.

Your team can be your best defense. By training hotel staff to identify early signs of pest activity and understand how infestations occur, you can prevent problems before guests ever notice and before the costs spiral out of control.

What Pests Really Cost Your Hotel

A pest problem in a hotel doesn’t just disappear after the guest checks out. It often leads to a chain of financial consequences. These can include refunded stays, lost revenue from closed rooms, emergency pest treatments, and the cost of replacing furniture, linens, or carpets. In some cases, hotels may also face legal expenses if a guest decides to file a claim.

Reputation damage can be just as costly. One negative review that mentions pests can lower your ratings, slow down bookings, and weaken trust in your brand. Even loyal guests may think twice about returning if they see signs of ongoing issues.

Operationally, pest complaints disrupt your daily flow. Staff spend extra time handling concerns, adjusting room schedules, and coordinating with pest control services. Housekeeping and maintenance teams lose valuable hours, which can impact service during the busiest times of year.

Florida Hotels Face Unique Pest Pressures

The Sunshine State offers the perfect environment for pests to thrive. Warm weather, high humidity, and a steady stream of travelers create ideal conditions for infestations. Effective hospitality pest management is essential to protect both guests and property value.

• Bed Bugs: Florida’s warm, humid climate allows bed bug populations to remain active longer than in northern states. Hotels near airports or cruise ports, and theme parks such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando, are especially vulnerable due to high guest turnover. Bed bug prevention in hotels starts with regular inspections and immediate response to any signs of activity.
• Cockroaches: Attracted to food, heat, and moisture, cockroaches are commonly found in hotel kitchens, trash rooms, and guest bathrooms. Their presence can escalate quickly without strict sanitation and ongoing treatment.
• Rodents: Roof rats, also known as palm rats, are particularly common in Florida. They often enter buildings through utility lines or overgrown landscaping. Hotels with palm trees or aging roofs should inspect attic spaces and trim vegetation regularly.
• Mosquitoes and Flies: Florida’s long mosquito season and frequent rainfall create ideal breeding grounds. Properties near marshes, ponds, or irrigation systems should manage standing water and consider targeted mosquito control to protect outdoor spaces.
• Termites: Subterranean and Formosan termites are a year-round concern in Florida, especially in wood-framed buildings near wooded areas. Hotels should inspect crawlspaces, basements, and garden-level rooms during spring swarm season to prevent structural damage.

These challenges highlight the importance of a hotel-specific prevention plan. Hospitality pest management in Florida requires a proactive approach tailored to the state’s year-round pest pressures and tourism-driven environments. Whether you manage a high-rise in downtown Miami or a beach resort in the Panhandle, your property is always on the radar for pests if preventive steps aren’t in place.

How to Train Your Staff to Be a Pest Prevention Team

Your team plays a crucial role in spotting pest issues before they become complaints. With the right training, staff can identify early warning signs and help stop problems before they spread. Effective staff training for pest detection should include pest identification basics, reporting protocols, and seasonal patterns specific to Florida. 

Housekeeping: On the Front Lines

Housekeeping staff are in rooms every day and can catch the early signs of bed bugs and other pests. They should be trained to look for blood spots on linens, insect shells, or odd stains near headboards and furniture. Encourage them to report anything unusual without hesitation. For example, reinforce that bed bug prevention in hotels depends on swift communication between housekeepers and management when the first sign appears.

Maintenance and Engineering: Closing the Gaps

Maintenance teams should regularly check for cracks, leaks, and small openings that give pests easy access. Gaps around pipes, utility boxes, and vents are common entry points for rodents and insects. Regular sealing, caulking, and repairs can make a big difference.

Front Desk and Guest-Facing Staff: Handling Complaints

Staff who interact directly with guests should know how to respond professionally to pest complaints. Train them to document concerns, alert management, and avoid making assumptions or promises without follow-up from pest control. Clear communication helps protect your reputation and shows guests that their concerns are taken seriously. Include scenario-based role-playing exercises as part of your staff training for pest detection, so front desk teams can practice handling upset guests calmly and efficiently.

Build a Culture of Pest Awareness

Pest control shouldn’t fall only to your maintenance or housekeeping departments. Build a culture where all team members feel responsible for keeping the property pest-free. Share quick tips in morning meetings, provide refresher training each season, and make sure pest concerns are logged and addressed promptly.

Partner With Florida Pest Control To Protect Your Hotel

Florida Pest Control understands the unique challenges hotels and lodging facilities face in Florida’s climate and tourism-driven market. Our hospitality pest control services are built to meet the highest standards for guest care and regulatory compliance. Each service is designed to protect your property, your guests, and your reputation. Whether you manage ten rooms or two hundred, we will walk your site, identify risks, and create a custom prevention plan that keeps your operations running smoothly. 

Contact Florida Pest Control today to schedule your inspection or staff training session.

Buying a home is a major milestone, but if termites have been there first, it can quickly become a source of stress. The silver lining? A history of termite activity doesn’t have to derail your plans. With the right insight and professional support, you can move forward with confidence and protect your new investment.

Termites are nicknamed “silent destroyers” for a reason. They quietly tunnel through wood, flooring, and support beams, often for years, without obvious signs. Because it takes time for colonies to grow large enough to notice, even vigilant homeowners may not realize what’s happening until the damage is done. That’s why a termite inspection should be a must-have item on your home-buying checklist. A trained professional can spot current infestations, past treatment signs, and hidden damage that’s been repaired.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a home with termite history, and how to proceed with peace of mind.

What to Know Before Buying a Home With Termite Damage

It’s completely reasonable to worry about hidden damage or the risk of termites coming back. If the inspection reveals an active infestation, treatment should happen immediately. But if the damage is historical and has been properly treated, your focus should be prevention and long-term monitoring.

Ask for a wood-destroying insect (WDI) report as part of the home inspections. This report highlights any previous or ongoing termite activity, helping you make a well-informed decision.

Also, be aware that termite history may influence your homeowner’s insurance. Some insurance companies will want documentation, like the WDI report, to confirm the property is free of current activity.

How to Tell If It’s a Termite

Termites are often mistaken for carpenter ants, but there are a few distinct traits that set them apart. Termites have straight antennae, a thicker midsection, and wings that are all the same length. Their color can vary from pale cream to light brown.

In Florida, the most commonly encountered species is the Eastern subterranean termite. These pests have dark brown to black bodies and pale, translucent wings. At a glance, they may resemble other flying insects, which is why professional identification is so important.

Is It a Good Idea to Buy a Home With Termite Damage?

That depends on the extent of the damage. If structural integrity has been seriously compromised, the financial and physical risks may outweigh the benefits. Before making a decision, hire a licensed termite specialist to assess the situation, and consider bringing in a structural engineer to evaluate the condition of the home’s foundation and framing.

In many cases, termite spottings can become part of your negotiation strategy. Whether it’s requesting the seller make repairs or adjusting the purchase price to reflect restoration costs, you may have more flexibility than you think.

How to Recognize Termite Damage Before It Gets Worse

Termites don’t always leave obvious evidence behind, but the damage they cause can be extensive. These persistent pests feed on wood, drywall, and even wallpaper, gradually compromising your home’s structural integrity without making much noise. Watch for these warning signs that termites may already be active:

• Hollow-sounding wood
• Buckling or warped floors
• Peeling paint that looks like water damage
• Tiny holes in drywall
• Mud tubes on exterior walls

Are Termite Treatments a Good Fit for Your Home?

Absolutely, especially when they’re applied by licensed professionals like the team at Florida Pest Control. We understand that many homeowners are mindful of health and environmental impact, which is why we use eco-friendly products certified by GreenPro.

Our technicians are trained to apply these treatments with precision, ensuring they target termite activity directly while minimizing potential effects on people, pets, and the surrounding environment.

Why Professional Termite Prevention Makes All the Difference

DIY termite prevention can help, but it often falls short of what’s needed to fully protect your home. Steps like reducing moisture and avoiding direct wood-to-soil contact are useful first steps, but they don’t replace the effectiveness of professional support.

When you partner with Florida Pest Control, you gain access to a complete termite prevention strategy that may include:

• Inspections to identify vulnerabilities.
• Installation of termite barriers and monitoring systems.
• Eco-friendly treatments to create a protective shield around your home.

Protect Your New Investment With Proactive Termite Control

The earlier you identify and address termite issues, the easier they are to manage. Without prompt attention, a small problem can escalate into costly repairs. That’s why early intervention and expert treatment are so important for new and future homeowners.

At Florida Pest Control, our termite solutions are built to provide lasting protection and long-term peace of mind. We start with a detailed inspection to uncover any signs of termites, then apply targeted, eco-friendly treatments tailored to your home’s specific needs. Ideally, we’ll put your protection plan in place before move-in day, so you can settle in without worry.

Want to learn more or schedule your inspection? Call our team or fill out our online contact form today.

As a homeowner, having a lush and verdant lawn is a point of pride. But it can be a challenge here in Florida, where the warm, humid climate creates optimal conditions for many pests that can damage your lawn.

Pests are practically everywhere in Florida, and there are two keys to ensuring your lawn is protected. First, you need to know how to prevent lawn pests. Secondly, you need a happy and healthy lawn that’s able to withstand them. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive checklist – our most helpful tips for preventing lawn pests in the spring. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of infestation from these common Florida lawn pests:

• Chinch bugs
• Mole crickets
• Fire ants
• Sod webworms
• Armyworms
• Grubs
• Spittlebugs
• Bermudagrass mites
• Nematodes
  

Early Spring Lawn Prevention

When we say “early spring” in Florida, that’s usually sometime in late February or early March. It can vary, but think of it as the time when warming trends begin.

• Clean Up Yard Debris: Leaves, branches, and other yard debris provide moisture and nesting places for pests (and encourage the growth of fungal diseases). By letting it linger, you could be allowing a lawn pest issue to take hold. Rake everything up into bags or have it hauled away.
• Dethatching (If Necessary): Thatch is a layer of dead grass and decaying plant matter that builds up where the soil meets the grass blade. A little bit of thatch is normal, but more than half an inch will serve as an invitation to lawn pests. To do this yourself, you’ll need a special thatching rake or automatic dethatcher. We also provide dethatching as part of our expert lawn service.
• Soil Test: Poor soil pH and nutrient levels can weaken grass and leave it more susceptible to damage from diseases and lawn pests. You can get a soil probe or soil testing kit online or at your local garden store. Follow the instructions on the box to determine the pH level. Matching your soil pH level to the ideal level for your grass type will lead to a healthier, more pest-resistant lawn.
• Aeration (If needed): Over time, your soil may become compacted, which can impact your grass roots’ ability to take in water and nutrients. By aerating it, you improve air and water circulation, leading to healthier roots that are more resistant to pests. Aeration is pretty much poking holes in your soil to increase circulation. It’s simple, but can be hard work – and you need to have the right equipment. We also offer professional aeration services as part of our lawn care.
• Inspect for early signs of pest activity: You may start seeing warning signs of emerging lawn pests in early spring. Look for small mounds and raised tunnels, which can indicate the presence of pests like grubs and mole crickets.

Mid-Spring Lawn Pest Prevention

Lawn pests in Florida can be relentless. Make sure you follow our early spring tips and be sure to follow up with these late-spring lawn pest prevention strategies four to eight weeks later:

• Pre-Emergent Weed Control: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds like crabgrass. Weeds can weaken your lawn and attract pests.
• Mowing: Start mowing your lawn, but don’t cut it too short. A higher cut encourages deeper roots and shades out weeds. Follow the “one-third rule” and never cut off more than one-third of the grass blade at any one time. For St. Augustine grass, which is common in Florida lawns, pay close attention to mowing height, as stress can make them more vulnerable to chinch bugs.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer based on your soil test results. A healthy lawn is better able to resist pests. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can encourage pest populations.
• Grub Prevention: If you’ve had grub problems in the past, consider applying a preventative grub control product. Grubs feed on the roots of your lawn, causing dead patches.
• Chinch Bug Watch: Especially important for St. Augustine species of grass. Look for yellowing/browning patches, particularly in sunny areas.
• Sod Webworm/Armyworm Check: Look for chewed grass blades, and small brown patches.
• Fire Ant Control: Address fire ant mounds as they appear, to prevent lawn damage and stinging hazards.
• Inspect for Pests: Keep an eye out for signs of pests, such as: Brown patches, Holes in the lawn, Increased bird activity (they may be eating grubs), Visible insects, Spongy feeling turf.
• Watering: Water deeply and infrequently. This encourages deep root growth and makes your lawn less susceptible to pests and drought. Avoid overwatering, which creates ideal conditions for many pests and fungal diseases.
• Try Irrigation Services: Water your lawn perfectly every time with a professionally installed irrigation system. Our experienced technicians have the expertise to handle even the most complex systems, considering local climate, precipitation, and ground composition, as well as coordinating with your property’s plumbing and electrical system.

Should You Use DIY Pesticide or Insecticide for Lawn Pests?

We don’t recommend it as they can be highly damaging to the lawn or other surrounding plant life if used incorrectly. If it gets to the point where you’re considering using these kinds of DIY treatments on your grass, we recommend calling one of our professional lawn pest control technicians instead.

We can help make sure your treatments are applied where they’ll have the most impact and the least potential to harm people, pets, or other plants.

Tips for Natural Pest Control:

• Maintain a healthy lawn: A thick, healthy lawn is your best defense against pests.
• Encourage beneficial insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and other beneficial insects eat many common lawn pests.

Save Time With The Lawn Pest Experts

If you suspect a lawn pest infestation or just want to enjoy a healthy and beautiful lawn, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced lawn care pest control professionals.

Contact us today for a comprehensive lawn inspection and personalized treatment plan. Let us help you protect your investment and create a pest-free outdoor oasis.

Earth Day encourages everyone to reflect on how their actions influence nature, including businesses. For companies looking to operate with greater environmental responsibility, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) offers a proactive, sustainable way to keep pests in check.

But this isn’t only about the environment. IPM also strengthens your public reputation, improves workplace conditions, and cuts long-term costs. Here’s how IPM supports your company while caring for the world we share.

At Florida Pest Control, we utilize science-driven IPM strategies that emphasize prevention and lasting results, not quick fixes or excessive chemicals.

Integrated Pest Management Tackles Pest Challenges Thoughtfully

IPM approaches pest issues with long-range planning, focusing on minimal environmental disturbance and strategic interventions. The approach prioritizes:

• Prevention First: Catching risks before they evolve into infestations protects your space and reduces treatment needs.
• Smart Scouting and Identification: Frequent assessments and correct species ID allow for effective, targeted action.
• Minimal Chemical Use: Pesticides are applied only when necessary, based on customized population thresholds.
• Blended Control Tactics: IPM uses many tools, such as physical barriers, biological agents, and environmental shifts, for balanced solutions.

IPM Helps the Environment Thrive

• Cleaner Resources: Less pesticide runoff means better water and soil health.
• Protects Natural Pest Controllers: Beneficial insects like pollinators are protected, supporting biodiversity.
• Safer for People: With fewer chemicals in use, IPM reduces harmful exposure for employees and visitors.
• Improves Resource Management: By minimizing pest-related loss, businesses waste less and operate more efficiently.

IPM Helps Businesses Thrive

Environmentally responsible strategies also bring measurable benefits to your bottom line.

• Stronger Customer Relationships: Today’s consumers prefer companies that act sustainably.
• Regulatory Compliance: IPM keeps your pest program aligned with tightening environmental standards.
• Better Work Conditions: Staff appreciate a cleaner environment, without exposure to chemicals.
• Reduced Costs: Preventing infestations costs less than handling major outbreaks.
• Continuity of Operations: IPM reduces interruptions, protecting inventory and product quality.

Industry-Specific IPM Solutions

Pest pressures vary from one industry to the next. Florida Pest Control creates targeted pest control programs based on your unique business needs, helping you stay pest-free while supporting sustainability and long-term success.

Schools and Daycares

Pest control in education requires an immense amount of precaution. IPM uses discreet detection, low-toxicity options, and ongoing inspections to maintain pest control in learning environments without much intrusion.

Food Processing Plants

In these facilities, IPM includes tight sanitation routines, automated monitoring, and natural control methods to maintain safety and efficiency.

Warehouses and Industrial Facilities

IPM in warehouses focuses on structural integrity and pest-proofing, using sealing and traps instead of chemical sprays.

Restaurants

Restaurants benefit from routine checks, plant-based controls, and hidden detection tools that keep pests out and make customers happy.

Let Earth Day Inspire Better Pest Control

This Earth Day, consider a pest control method that works smarter, not harder. Integrated Pest Management helps your business meet sustainability goals without sacrificing performance.

Connect with Florida Pest Control to learn more, and schedule a complimentary IPM consultation tailored to your industry.