You’ve heard of fleas but have you heard of springtails? More than likely, you haven’t, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have them.

Springtails are often confused with fleas because of their size and jumpiness when disturbed. These 2mm (1/16”) wingless insects can be found in moist areas inside and outside your home. They tend to hide outside in mulch, flower pots, and decaying matter as well as under wood and logs, around the deck of your pool, and in the moist soil throughout the lawn.

These insects are a year-round nuisance. Most active at night during the warmer months, springtails can be seen during the day in winter. You may see them crawling on top of snow until they need to burrow back into the soil. Unfortunately, if you see them crawling around outside on the snow, you may have an infestation.

Springtails are not harmful and don’t bite. If you experience them within your home, consider them a pesky nuisance. You may find them in areas of your basement, bathroom, laundry room, or wherever you have plants. Springtails are actually beneficial for the ecosystem. They break down organic and decomposing matter thus giving back nutrients to the soil. However, if you have an infestation, too many nutrients going back into the ground can bring harm to your grass, plant, and tree roots.

Under dry conditions, springtails will naturally die off. Here’s some helpful tips to help control a springtail infestation:

  1. Repair any leaks.
  2. Repair any areas around windows and doors that retain moisture.
  3. Keep yard free of debris and animal feces.
  4. Keep wood piles elevated off the ground and away from structures.
  5. Prevent overwatering plants. This can create mold and springtails are attracted to fermented aromas.
  6. Vacuum regularly.
  7. Hire a professional. An outdoor pest control treatment will help control springtails and any other unwanted pests.

 

Let us spring into action and help you with all your pest control needs. Contact Safe Earth Pest Control today. 214-321-2847