nutrilawnflorida

My lawn is brown and dry! WE CAN HELP!

Mon, 22 May 2023 18:28:39 GMT

From the field, Operations Manager David Ketchum

Thriving Lawns in Florida's Drought"

Florida homeowners have the power to maintain lush and healthy lawns, even amidst drought or water shortage situations, irrespective of the water management districts (WMDs) imposing mandatory water restrictions. Surprisingly, the majority of turf damage arises from excessive watering, while watering restrictions generally offer ample irrigation for most types of lawngrass. Join me, David Ketchum, as I share practical maintenance practices that can effectively guide you in ensuring your lawn's resilience during periods of drought.

David Ketchum's Advice: Optimal Mowing Height for Drought Resilience

In light of water scarcity during drought or water shortage periods, David Ketchum recommends adopting the "Mow High" approach. It's a known fact that grass growth slows down when water availability decreases. Consequently, you will find yourself mowing less frequently. However, when you do mow, always adhere to the highest recommended height for your specific grass species. Remember, it is crucial never to remove more than one-third of the leaf blade in a single mowing session, as this would further stress the already drought-affected grass. By mowing at a higher height, you encourage deeper rooting, which plays a vital role in enhancing drought tolerance.

David Ketchum's Recommendation: Optimal Watering Practices

When it comes to watering your lawn, David Ketchum advises following the right watering practices. In many instances, lawns can withstand prolonged droughts with just one to two days of irrigation per week, as long as 1/2 to 3/4 inches of water is applied each time. However, it is crucial to water only when you observe signs of turf wilt, such as folded leaf blades, a blue-gray tint on the grass, and visible footprints or tire tracks that remain long after being made.

It's important to never overwater to the point of runoff. Runoff occurs when the roots are unable to absorb the excess water, causing it to flow into storm drains, streams, lakes, groundwater, and potentially contaminating them with lawn chemicals, pollutants, and wasting water.

For rotary sprinklers and impact sprinklers, irrigation run times should rarely exceed 60 minutes, while for spray heads, it should be limited to 20 minutes. If your irrigation system surpasses these recommended times, ensure that it is not applying more than 3/4 inches of water in a single watering session. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure efficient water usage while promoting the health of your lawn.

David Ketchum's Recommendation: Optimal Watering Time - Early Morning

To ensure efficient watering practices, David Ketchum advises irrigating your lawn early in the morning, preferably between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m. during the cooler hours of the day. This timing allows the grass blades to dry off quickly as the sun rises. It's important to avoid watering late in the day or at night, as extended periods of wetness can lead to turf diseases.

Watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. is not recommended as it can result in water wastage. During these hours, the water is more likely to evaporate before it can penetrate the soil and be absorbed by the roots, rendering the irrigation ineffective.

By following this guidance and watering during the early morning, you can optimize water usage, promote healthy turf, and minimize the risk of turf diseases.

Experience Matters! Our professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business (2 University of Florida Entomologists on staff, "Father & Son") was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years, with the help of our Operations Manager David Ketchum (26 years’ experience), we have devised various fool-proof lawn & shrub care options that will have your neighbors talking.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

Lawn Care Programs

Tree/Shrub Programs

Insect IQ / Nutrilawn IQ has always been willing to identify turf or shrub damage free of charge. For more information contact us today, 855-930-2847, and ask about our lawn & shrub pest management services. Mention our post and get $25 off your first lawn and shrub service. Contact us

From the Field with David Ketchum, Operations Manager

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 16:46:11 GMT

Tropical Sod Webworm Larvae Might Be Feeding On Your Lawn If You See This

If you have noticed that your lawn looks like it's been cut by a dull blade or like tops have been chewed by a cat and you have no idea what is causing the destruction, there is a good chance that it could be Sod Webworms.

Sod Webworms are not worms at all, but rather the actual larvae of several species of moths that feed on turfgrass. Sod Webworms attack turfgrasses throughout the “tropical zone” which includes Tampa and parts of Southern Florida.

Sod Webworm activity starts increasing in Florida between March and May and continues until late November to early December.

This coincides with the spring months when turfgrass growth is at its highest. Sod Webworms only feed on the upper surface of grass blades, and so the injury they cause is often overlooked.

In most cases, it takes time for Sod Webworm damage to become noticeable because they feed on the grass blades during their two-year life cycle (1st – in the larvae stage; 2nd – as an adult moth). However, if you see an increase in sod Webworm damage this spring, you should be concerned about potential issues next in the summer when temperatures begin warming up again.

Sod Webworms only feed on the upper surface of grass blades, and so the injury they cause is often overlooked.

The larvae feed on the leaves and roots of the plant, but they don't usually kill it outright. Instead, they weaken it and cause it to become more susceptible to disease or drought stress. This can eventually kill off small areas of your lawn if left untreated.

If you see these Webworms in your lawn, there are several things you can do to prevent them from spreading throughout your yard:

Keep your lawn healthy by mowing regularly and watering as needed; this will keep weeds from overtaking your grass

Avoid using weed killer products in areas where Sod Webworms are present; these chemicals will kill them, but may also harm other beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.

If you suspect that you might have a Sod Webworm Problem, contact us today for a free pest inspection. Call 727-733-1159 or visit us at https://www.nutrilawnflorida.com/ to learn more about turf-destroying insects.

Mole Crickets

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 17:17:45 GMT

Mole crickets start life as eggs, pass through several immature, nymph stages, and then become adults. Understanding this process helps give you the upper hand. One generation generally occurs per year, but lawns in the Deep South can see two. Mole crickets overwinter in soil as large, final-stage nymphs or adults, then emerge and mate when spring soil warms. Males die shortly after mating. Females dig up to 10 inches deep in moist soil and lay 100 to 150 eggs before they die.

Depending on soil temps and soil moisture, eggs hatch in 10 to 40 days, with three weeks most common. By late spring and early summer, damage has started. With each molting stage, nymphs become larger, more destructive and more resistant to control. Warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda grass and Bahiagrass, are favorite targets. Because mole cricket nymphs strike during these grasses' peak growth, their damage often stays hidden until it's too late.

Preventing mole cricket damage requires hitting the highly destructive nymphs before the prime time for treatment has passed – and before damage can be seen. This is actually easier than it may seem. Areas with adult activity in spring are excellent indicators of where eggs were laid – and where turf should be treated when nymphs hatch. Treating adults during their spring rituals can reduce tunneling and egg laying, but follow-up nymph treatments are essential to successful control. Nymphs are most vulnerable in late spring and early summer when they're newly hatched, close to the surface, and about 1/4-inch long. By the time they reach 1/2 inch in length a few weeks later, they burrow deeper into protective soil and become more effective at evading treatments. By monitoring spring activity and proactively treating those areas before nymph damage ever shows, you can hit these pests hardest and most effectively.

Understanding the life cycle of mole crickets can be helpful in preventing damage to your lawn. Mole crickets start out as eggs, then go through several immature, nymph stages before becoming adults. In the Deep South, there can be two generations per year. They spend the winter in soil as large nymphs or adults and then emerge and mate in the spring when the soil warms up. After mating, male mole crickets die, while females dig up to 10 inches deep in moist soil to lay 100 to 150 eggs before they pass away.

Depending on the temperature and moisture of the soil, the eggs hatch in 10 to 40 days, with

three weeks being the most common. Damage usually starts in late spring or

early summer. As the nymphs go through each molting stage, they become larger,

more destructive, and more resistant to control. Warm-season grasses, such as

Bermuda grass and Bahiagrass, are particularly vulnerable to mole cricket

damage.

To prevent damage, it's important to treat the nymphs before they become too big and destructive. Monitoring activity in the spring and treating areas where adults were active can help you target those areas where the eggs were laid. Treating adults during their spring rituals can help reduce tunneling and egg laying, but follow-up nymph treatments are necessary for effective control.

Nymphs are most vulnerable in late spring and early summer when they're newly hatched,

close to the surface, and about 1/4 inch long. It's important to monitor for

spring activity and treat those areas proactively before the damage becomes

visible. By doing this, you can effectively control mole crickets and keep your

lawn healthy and beautiful.

Here at Nutrilawn we use a chemical that is an insecticide that contains the active ingredient clothianidin, which is a neonicotinoid insecticide. It is effective against a wide range of insects, including mole crickets. The insecticide works by disrupting the nervous system of the mole cricket, which leads to paralysis and eventual death. When applied to the lawn, this chemical is absorbed through the roots of the grass and translocated to all parts of the plant, including the roots. This makes it an effective treatment for mole crickets that feed on the roots of the grass. The insecticide remains active in the soil for an extended period, providing ongoing protection against mole crickets and other pests.

If you are starting to see any Mole Crickets, Chinch Bugs, Sod Web Worms or are simply

just looking for a lush lawn, give Nutrilawn a call and let’s see if we can get

you the Lawn of you Life! www.NutrilawnFlorida.com

It's Granular Fertilization time!

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 16:20:02 GMT

Granular fertilizer is a type of dry fertilizer that comes in a granular form. It is made up of small granules that are designed to be spread evenly across the lawn or garden bed. Granular fertilizers are often preferred over liquid fertilizers because they are easier to store, apply, and provide a slow-release of nutrients to plants.

Granular fertilizer is typically composed of three main nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for plant growth and are often listed on the packaging as N-P-K, with each number representing the percentage of that nutrient in the fertilizer. For example, a 20-10-10 fertilizer would contain 20% nitrogen, 10% phosphorus, and 10% potassium.

The best time to apply granular fertilizer to your lawn depends on the type of grass you have and your climate. In general, it is recommended to apply granular fertilizer during the growing season when the grass is actively growing. For cool-season grasses, this is usually in the early spring and fall, while for warm-season grasses, it is in the late spring and summer.

When applied to the lawn, granular fertilizer provides a slow-release of nutrients that are essential for plant growth. Nitrogen, for example, is important for promoting lush, green growth, while phosphorus is needed for root development and potassium helps improve the overall health of the plant. Granular fertilizers also improve the soil quality by adding organic matter, improving water retention, and promoting microbial activity.

Overall, granular fertilizer is an effective way to provide the necessary nutrients for a healthy lawn. By understanding when and how to apply it, you can help ensure that your lawn remains green, healthy, and vibrant throughout the growing season.

The time change and temperature changes associated with the transition from winter to spring make it an ideal time to apply granular fertilizers to your lawn and garden. As the days become longer and temperatures begin to rise, plants start to awaken from dormancy and begin to grow actively. This means they require more nutrients to support their growth and development.

Granular fertilizers are a slow-release type of fertilizer that slowly release nutrients over time, providing a steady supply of nutrients to plants throughout the growing season. Applying granular fertilizers now, as the weather warms up, ensures that your plants have the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong.

Moreover, applying granular fertilizers after the time change allows for better absorption of the nutrients since the plants will have more sunlight available to facilitate their metabolic processes. The soil temperature also increases during this period, which enhances nutrient uptake and utilization by the plants.

In summary, laying down granular fertilization during the time change and temperature changes in spring is ideal because it provides your plants with the essential nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy, and it takes advantage of the optimal growing conditions of the season.

If you want to ensure that your lawn and garden have the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong this spring, don't wait any longer! Contact Nutrilawn today at 1-800-526-9123 or visit their website at Nutrilawnflorida.com to learn more about our fertilization services and how we can help you achieve a lush, vibrant lawn and garden.

Here are a couple of ways that you can make sure you get a nice green lawn this coming Spring!

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 17:53:32 GMT

Preparing a lawn for spring can be a daunting task, as it often requires a lot of time, effort, and expertise to ensure that the lawn is healthy, vibrant, and ready to thrive in the warmer weather. This process can include tasks such as removing debris, testing the soil, aerating the lawn, fertilizing, and seeding, among others. Furthermore, different types of grass and soil require different treatments, making it challenging for homeowners to know exactly what their lawn needs. As a result, many homeowners struggle to effectively prepare their lawn for spring, leading to a less-than-optimal lawn appearance and potentially costly repairs. This highlights the need for effective and accessible lawn care solutions that can help homeowners properly prepare their lawns for spring and maintain a healthy and attractive lawn throughout the growing season.

Here are a couple of ways that you can make sure you get a nice green lawn this coming Spring!

Clean up debris: Start by cleaning up any debris that has accumulated on your lawn during the winter, such as fallen branches, leaves, and twigs. Rake the lawn to remove any dead grass, as well as to help loosen the soil.
Aerate the soil: Aerating the soil helps to promote healthy root growth and allows water and nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily. You can rent an aerator or hire a lawn care professional to do this for you.
Overseed: Over time, your lawn may become thin and patchy, making it more vulnerable to weeds and pests. Overseeding involves spreading new grass seed over your existing lawn to fill in any bare spots and promote thicker, healthier growth.
Fertilize: Fertilizing your lawn in the spring provides essential nutrients that help it grow lush and green. Look for a slow-release fertilizer that provides a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Water: Water your lawn deeply once a week, rather than shallowly several times a week. This helps to encourage deep root growth, which in turn makes your lawn more drought-resistant. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent fungal growth.
Mow regularly: Mowing your lawn regularly helps to promote healthy growth and prevent weeds. Set your mower blades to a height of around 2-3 inches, and avoid cutting off more than one-third of the grass blades at a time.
Control weeds: Spring is the ideal time to apply pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weeds from taking hold. If you do notice weeds starting to grow, pull them up by hand or use a targeted herbicide.

By following these tips, you can help your lawn green up and thrive in the spring. Remember to keep up with regular maintenance throughout the growing season to ensure your lawn stays healthy and beautiful.

Nutrilawn can help you with 3 out of 7 of these things. Here are three things we can assist with in trying to get a luscious green lawn.

Water Recommendations: Proper watering is essential for a healthy lawn. Nutrilawn can help you determine the correct amount of water your lawn needs, depending on factors such as weather conditions, soil type, and the type of grass you have. They can also provide recommendations on the best time of day to water your lawn and the most efficient watering techniques.

Lawn Fertilizing: Fertilizing is an important part of lawn care because it provides essential nutrients to the grass, which promotes healthy growth and improves the overall appearance of your lawn. Nutrilawn can help you determine the right type and amount of fertilizer your lawn needs, based on its unique characteristics. They can also provide you with a schedule for fertilizing your lawn, to ensure that it gets the right amount of nutrients at the right time.

Weed Control: Weeds can be a major problem for lawns because they can compete with the grass for water and nutrients, and they can also make your lawn look unsightly. Nutrilawn can help you identify the types of weeds that are present in your lawn and recommend the most effective weed control strategies. This may include using herbicides or other treatments to eliminate weeds, as well as implementing preventative measures to minimize the risk of future weed growth.

Overall, Nutrilawn can provide you with a comprehensive lawn care program that includes water recommendations, fertilizing, and weed control, to help you achieve a green, healthy, and beautiful lawn for this coming spring!

Our team of experts has the knowledge, experience, and tools needed to transform your lawn into a beautiful and healthy oasis. We operate in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties, and are ready to help you achieve the lawn of your dreams. Call us today at 1-800-526-9123 or visit our website at https://www.nutrilawnflorida.com to learn more and schedule your lawn care program today!

Nutrilawn's David Ketchum: A True Lawn Care Expert

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 17:55:22 GMT

Since 1995, for over 28 years, David Ketchum has been a vital part of the Nutrilawn team, serving as the operation manager. He has dedicated himself to learning everything there is to know about lawn care, and he is proud to say that he learns something new every day.

David has learned about a variety of topics throughout his career at Nutrilawn, including soil science, insect metamorphosis, plant pathology, the science of horticulture, the environment, and daily dealing with the different types of nutrient requirements for lawns and turfgrass.

Soil science is an important part of lawn care because it helps to determine the type of soil that is present and what nutrients it needs to support a healthy lawn. David has studied different types of soil and has learned how to make soil more fertile by adding the right type of nutrients.

Insect metamorphosis is the process by which insects change from one form to another. David has studied the different stages of insect metamorphosis and knows how to identify different types of insects that can damage lawns. This knowledge has helped him to create treatment plans that are effective at preventing insect damage.

Plant pathology is the study of plant diseases. David has studied the various diseases that can affect lawns and has learned how to identify and treat them. This knowledge is vital to maintaining a healthy lawn.

The science of horticulture is the study of plants and how to grow them. David has studied the various types of grasses and turfgrass and knows how to care for them to ensure they stay healthy and beautiful.

David has also learned about the environment and how it affects lawns. He knows how to care for lawns in different weather conditions and understands how different types of plants and grasses respond to environmental changes.

Finally, David deals with the different types of nutrient requirements for lawns and turfgrass. He knows which nutrients are needed for healthy growth and how to apply them in the right amounts.

Through his many years of experience and his dedication to learning, David has become an expert in lawn care. He is passionate about what he does, and he takes pride in helping his clients to maintain healthy, beautiful lawns.

If you want to learn more about Nutrilawn's lawn care programs and how they can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful lawn, we invite you to visit NutriLawnFl.com or call 1-800-526-9123. Our team of experts, led by David Ketchum, is ready to help you create a customized lawn care plan that meets your unique needs. So why wait? Visit our website today and discover the Nutrilawn difference.

What Causes Dollarweeds? The Ugly and Destructive Weed That's Ruining Your Lawn.

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 17:46:03 GMT

Say Goodbye to Unsightly Dollarweeds with Nutrilawn

As a lawn owner in the greater Tampa Bay area, you want your yard to be a source of pride and enjoyment. Unfortunately, dollarweeds can put a damper on that. Not only are these weeds unsightly, but they can also be destructive to your lawn. Dollarweeds grow in dense mats that can choke out your good grass and plants, and their shallow roots make them vulnerable to drought, disease, and pests.

At Nutrilawn, we understand the frustration and disappointment that comes with a yard full of dollarweeds. That's why we've dedicated ourselves to providing top-quality lawn care services to homeowners in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties. We're proud to be the go-to lawn care company in the area for reliable, effective, and affordable solutions to weed problems.

Don't Waste Your Time on DIY Dollarweed Solutions

If you're like many homeowners, you may have tried DIY solutions like hand-pulling or mowing to get rid of dollarweeds. However, these solutions are often ineffective in the long term. Hand-pulling may remove the visible plants, but it doesn't get rid of the roots, which can cause the weeds to come back even stronger. Mowing is a temporary fix at best, and the best DIY remedies, like vinegar or boiling water, can harm the good plants in your lawn.

Nutrilawn: Your Trusted Solution to Dollarweed Problems

That's where Nutrilawn comes in. Our lawn care program is specially designed to eliminate dollarweeds and promote healthy grass growth. We don't just use any herbicides or fertilizers; we use specialized products that are safe for your lawn and the environment. Our team of lawn care experts will create a customized treatment plan based on your lawn's specific needs, including regular maintenance services to keep your lawn weed-free year-round.

Plus, Nutrilawn is a full-service company, and we can bundle your lawn care and pest control into one package, saving you time and money. Our pest control services are top-notch, and we use only the latest and most effective methods to keep your home and lawn pest-free. When you choose Nutrilawn for both your lawn care and pest control needs, you'll save 10% on your services.

When you choose Nutrilawn, you can be confident that you're working with the best in the business. Our technicians are trained and certified in the latest techniques and products, and we're always researching and developing new methods to ensure the highest level of service possible. Plus, we use only the highest-quality equipment to ensure efficient and effective treatments every time.

Say Goodbye to Dollarweeds, Hello to a Beautiful Lawn!

With Nutrilawn, you can say goodbye to unsightly dollarweeds and hello to a beautiful, healthy lawn that you'll be proud to show off. Our comprehensive lawn care services will transform your yard into the envy of the neighborhood. From fertilization and weed control to pest services and plant care, we have everything you need to keep your lawn looking its best.

But our commitment to excellence goes beyond just the services we provide. We're dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service as well. We'll work with you every step of the way to ensure that you're satisfied with our work, and we'll be available to answer any questions you may have along the way.

Contact Nutrilawn today by calling 1-800-526-9123 to schedule a consultation. Let's work together to create a lawn you'll love!

Pest Control & Lawn Maintenance—One Company, One Call

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:37:36 GMT

Pest Control & Lawn Maintenance—One Company, One Call

You want convenience when it comes to your outdoors. You want one company that can handle it all. You want one company, one price, one service provider.

That’s what we deliver at Insect IQ / Nutrilawn. Your lawn care and pest control service providers in one!

PEST SERVICES | WHAT TO EXPECT

We will prevent unwanted pests from invading your home. Our protective barrier is applied to the outside perimeter and is safe for your family and pets while assuring you peace of mind.

We also use a wide variety of technological and management practices. Control strategies in an IPM program extend beyond the application of pesticides to include structural and procedural modifications that reduce the food, water, harborage, and access used by pests.

We will take care of your lawn care needs with our Lawn Care & Plant Care programs. Then we will treat your yard for any pests that may be present, whether they are weeds or bugs. Our team is also trained to handle any termites, wildlife, stinging insects, or rodent problems. We are licensed and insured so you don’t have to worry about anything when we come out to take care of your property.

LAWN CARE | WHAT TO EXPECT

Nutrilawn provides professional Lawn Care services where quality is standard. We offer a choice of programs to fit your individual needs and budget. We only use premium products that will enhance the beauty of your lawn & keep your ornamental shrubs and palms healthy, adding value to your property. Our program provides proper "nutritional" needs while keeping destructive insects and leaf spot diseases under control.

If you are ready for the Lawn Of Your Life & Pest Free Living Call Insect IQ / Nutrilawn Today, 855-930-2847.

Or Visit insectiq.com/nutrilawn

Thatch Build Up Leads To Lawn Ant-Lion Infestations | What To Look For And How To Treat

Tue, 31 May 2022 22:05:29 GMT

Thatch Build Up Leads To Lawn Ant-Lion Infestations | What To Look For And How To Treat

If you have noticed brown zones between vegetation or strange growth in various parts of your lawn chances are your lawn has a thatch build-up. This thatch can be caused by waiting too long between mowings, too much shade on your lawn, or a variety of other lawn maintenance issues.

If left unattended, these spots become breeding grounds for a variety of ants and other bugs. Most notably this time of year, the ant-lion.

Ant-lions are a type of insect that dig holes in the lawn and then lie in wait for unsuspecting insects or small animals.

The ant-lion's cone-shaped trap is made from sand grains, soil, and sometimes even pieces of vegetation. The cone is formed by the ant-lion digging its way down into the ground, leaving depression behind. As soon as an insect or small animal wanders by, it falls into this pit and becomes trapped inside. Any tiny creature that moves too close to an ant-lion's pit will be captured and eaten by these carnivorous insects.

If you don't know a specialist, you can call Nutrilawn for a free inspection, 727-733-1159. We will be able to determine what kind of ant problem you have and the best course of treatment.

Visit us at https://www.nutrilawnflorida.com/ f or more information.

Florida Roof Rats Infest Largo Condo - Smoke Candles To The Rescue

Sat, 28 May 2022 19:48:01 GMT

Florida Roof Rats Infest Largo Condo - Smoke Candles To The Rescue

Over the last 7 months, other pest control operators had been trying various methods to control the rats, but with limited success.

Then we took over. The most successful method for long-term pest control is an integrated approach i.e. a combination of methods that work together such as baiting and trapping along with exclusion or sealing up cracks or holes in the building.

We would like you to know that we use a combination pest control approach (exclusion/sealing cracks/sewer traps) in addition to chemicals, lights, and devices that cycle on and off at set intervals (traps.) We also suggest preventative steps that you can take to avoid rodent activity such as sealing food storage areas and keeping garbage containers covered until collected.

Rodentproofing

Rodentproofing is changing the structure of buildings in order to prevent entry of rats and mice. In considering rodentproofing, you must know that:

· Rats can squeeze through cracks ½ inch wide; mice, ¼ inch wide. Any place a pencil can be poked, a mouse can go.

· Rats can climb the inside of vertical pipes 1½–4 inches in diameter.

· Rats can climb the outside of vertical pipes up to 3 inches in diameter and any size if within 3 inches of a wall.

· Rats can jump vertically 36 inches, horizontally 48 inches, and reach horizontally or vertically 15 inches.

· Rats can jump 8 feet from a tree to a house if the branch is 15 feet above the roof.

We realize the importance of securing a dependable pest management firm to eliminate and control any pest population in all urban environments. Let Insect IQ take care of your wildlife problems. Here’s what we will do for you.

Sod Webworms only feed on the upper surface of grass blades, and so the injury they cause is often overlooked.

If you see these Webworms in your lawn, there are several things you can do to prevent them from spreading throughout your yard:

Keep your lawn healthy by mowing regularly and watering as needed; this will keep weeds from overtaking your grass

Avoid using weed killer products in areas where Sod Webworms are present; these chemicals will kill them, but may also harm other beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.

Tropical Sod Webworm Larvae Might Be Feeding On Your Lawn If You See This

Thu, 19 May 2022 19:15:42 GMT

Tropical Sod Webworm Larvae Might Be Feeding On Your Lawn If You See This

Sod Webworm activity starts increasing in Florida between March and May and continues until late November to early December.

This coincides with the spring months when turfgrass growth is at its highest. Sod Webworms only feed on the upper surface of grass blades, and so the injury they cause is often overlooked.

Sod Webworms only feed on the upper surface of grass blades, and so the injury they cause is often overlooked.

If you see these Webworms in your lawn, there are several things you can do to prevent them from spreading throughout your yard:

Keep your lawn healthy by mowing regularly and watering as needed; this will keep weeds from overtaking your grass

Avoid using weed killer products in areas where Sod Webworms are present; these chemicals will kill them, but may also harm other beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.

Is Your Florida Lawn Getting Brown And Patchy? Try This.

Thu, 05 May 2022 19:04:45 GMT

Is Your Florida Lawn Getting Brown And Patchy? Try This.

If you live in Florida, you're probably aware that lawns are a little trickier here than they are in other parts of the country. They need more water, and the soil has particular requirements. If you've been having trouble with your lawn looking brown and patchy, here are some things to consider:

How much water does your lawn need?

First of all, make sure your lawn is getting enough water. During the hot season (April through October), it needs about an inch a week. The best time to water the lawn is in the morning before Daybreak. You can run your sprinklers for at least 45 to 60 minutes per Zone.

The best way to assure you are getting an inch a week is to get a rain gauge or even a coffee can. Place the gauge in on your brown spots and measure the water while running your sprinklers. You may find that you need new sprinkler heads, or need to adjust your spray radius/angels. Grass affected by prolonged drought areas can show up usually has brown indicators.

Another way to test the brown patchy spots on your Florida lawn a finger test. Press your finger down about 1 to 2 inches and determine if the soil is dry. Saint Augustine grass does require at least one inch of water per week to survive during hot Florida summers.

Can fungus brown my grass?

Second, check to see if any fungus or disease is growing on your grass—it's common for Florida lawns to have a fungus problem at some point. If you notice discoloration or patches of grass dying off, take a sample to your local professional. Nutrilawn is also available for a free lawn evaluation. Our professionals will be able to tell you what's going on and advise on treatment options.

Can fertilization help or hurt my Florida lawn?

Finally, a common cause of discoloration is fertilizer—or more precisely, fertilizer that's poorly applied. If you're using too much fertilizer at once, or if it gets onto sidewalks and other hardscapes, it can cause patchy brown areas on your lawn. Always use fertilizer as directed by the packaging. Also, make sure it is suitable for your lawn. We had a client, more specifically a Northerner, who brought "fertilizer" from the north. It was the wrong type of fertilizer and caused some pretty hefty damage to his Saint Augustine grass. The HOA was not happy with the results.

Experience Matters! Our professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business ( 2 University of Florida Entomologists on staff, "Father & Son" ) was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years, with the help of our Operations Manager David Ketchum (26 years’ experience), we have devised various fool-proof lawn & shrub care options that will have your neighbors talking.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

Lawn Care Programs

Tree/Shrub Programs

Insect IQ / Nutrilawn IQ has always been willing to identify turf or shrub damage free of charge. For more information contact us today, and ask about our lawn & shrub pest management services. Mention our post and get $25 off your first lawn and shrub service. Contact us

DID YOUR LAWN TURN BROWN FROM THE FREEZE?

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 20:46:19 GMT

Insect IQ can solve your lawn problems!

From the field, Operations Manager David Ketchum

Has your gorgeous lawn suddenly browned after last week's freeze? Unfortunately, it is not realistic to cover your lawn as you would your other greenery when our night temperatures drop below 33 degrees. In the months of December and January, NutriLawn prepared your lawn for such a freeze by applying a product called Potash.

Water or not to water?

Although the blades of your lawn have browned, your root system is strong, healthy and prepared to flourish with Spring. To best ensure this happens, DO NOT change your watering cycle! Once a week in the morning hours is best practice this time of the year.

The addition of POTASH, of the three major elements in the fertilizer nitrogen phosphorus and potassium the potassium is the element that strengthens the root system. As the root system in plants and lawns grows we apply potash in December and January, the specific reason when you get a frost or freeze the grass tends to go into shock. St Augustine is a tropical type plant which doesn't hold up well, when we get to temperatures 32 or below the potassium or potash helps strengthen the root system and helps it recover quicker. Once we get into the spring and the soil temperature rises which is generally after the time change.

Experience Matters! Our professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business ( 2 University of Florida Entomologists on staff, "Father & Son" ) was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years, with the help of our Operations Manager David Ketchum (26 years’ experience), we have devised various fool-proof lawn & shrub care options that will have your neighbors talking.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

Lawn Care Programs

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BUGS IN YOUR PANTRY!!!

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 20:12:17 GMT

Ways to Pest-Proof Your Pantry

The pantries in our homes are where we store our canned goods, dried foods, baking, products, and more! The pantry is an important part of a household. So, it’s clear to see why you wouldn’t want an infestation of pests in your supplies.

Unfortunately, the things you store in your pantry can be major attractors to unwanted houseguests. At Nutrilawn/Insect IQ, we work hard to inform our clients on how they can get pests out of their homes and keep them out.

Here’s a look into how you can pest-proof your pantry and keep the goods inside of it free of disease-ridden insects and rodents.

Stored Product Pest.

It’s no surprise that the usual suspects that show up around other areas of your home are also eager to sneak into your pantry. In fact, what’s in your pantry could be the sole reason behind an infestation.

Some of the most common pests we clear out of pantries include the following:

Mice
Rats
Ants
Moths
Beetles
Weevils

How Should You Pest-Proof Your Pantry?

So, you know the problems that are out there for the food in your pantry; but how do you stop them? There are several steps you can take to protect your items, but only one of them is able to keep pests away in the long term.

Clean Out Your Pantry

Every time you refill your pantry after a shopping trip, take some time to thoroughly clean out the area. Yes, sweeping crumbs out from your shelves is a great way to keep the area clear of pests, but you should also take some time to get rid of any spoiled perishables (i.e. potatoes).

Spoiled perishable items are an easy way to attract an infestation. Cleaning out your pantry before pests catch a dreaded whiff of anything spoiled is a simple way to take a stand against unwanted pests.

Seal Up

Pasta, flour, crackers, and other consumable foods in your pantry should be effectively sealed. Simply rolling up the bags of these items isn’t enough to stop a pest problem. Airtight containers are a perfect way to close off any entryways to bugs and rodents. They also come in various designs, shapes, and sizes, so you can get stylish while fending off an infestation.

Examine Your Items

Prior to bringing an item home from the store, examine it carefully. Any item that has torn packaging or damaged seals should be immediately returned to the shelves. Bringing home poorly sealed foods is like rolling out the welcome mat to hard-to-get-rid-of pests.

Pest-Proof Your Entire Property With Nutrilawn/Insect IQ

If you’re ready to take back control of your home from any pest infestation, let the experts at Nutrilawn/Insect IQ help! We have the experience and equipment to thoroughly rid your home of most serious pest problems. Trust us to help you make your house a home again.

Schedule Pest Management Services

Common Christmas Tree Bugs

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 17:06:36 GMT

Common Christmas Tree Bugs

How to Get Rid of Them

It’s the question on everyone’s minds this holiday season:

Freshly-cut evergreen trees are beautiful and can make your home smell amazing, getting you in the Christmas spirit. But when you bring home a living tree, you are also inviting thousands of tiny insects that are hibernating inside the tree.

Keep in mind that when insects like ants and beetles overwinter into your festive, warm living space, they will wake up believing it is springtime.

Check out our list below about the most typical insects in Christmas trees and how to make sure that they do not crash your celebration by taking preventative measures to de-bug your tree.

Here are some of them you may encounter:

Scale

Aphids

Mites

Sawfly Larvae

Spittlebugs

Weevils

Maybe a squirrel…

If you don't believe me ask Clark Griswold…

Steps to prevent a Christmas Surprise:

Vacuum any insect on or around the tree.
Put a white sheet under the tree and shake to dislodge any bugs
Leave your Christmas tree in your garage for a few days
When selecting your tree inspect the trunk and underneath branches.
Treat the tree with soapy water, diatomaceous earth or neem oil to kill any bugs still there.

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify Christmas tree arthropods free of charge. For more information contact us today, 727-733-1159

From the entire staff here at Nutrilawn we wish the happiest of holidays. Blessing to you and your family.

Why does my lawn have brown patches of grass?

Sat, 04 Dec 2021 10:50:39 GMT

Call Nutrilawn today to solve your lawn problems

You put hours into your lawn, doing everything you have been told to do to make the grass green and luscious. You’ve aerated, fed, watered, and mowed, and everything looked great –until suddenly it did not. All of a sudden, there are patches of dead grass. Or maybe some spots are an unusual color or look “off” somehow. Whatever the issue, it’s unsightly, and it appears to be spreading.

If your lawn experiences problems such as dead or discolored areas, the culprit may be disease or lawn fungus or moss. But before you give up and replace your lawn with artificial turf, you should know that your grass can be saved. By correctly identifying the problem, and applying the proper treatment, you can eradicate the disease and go back to enjoying a yard full of healthy grass.

Preventing Lawn Disease and Fungus

The best way to deal with lawn fungus and disease is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Often, issues arise due to the way homeowners care for their lawns. Even some well-intentioned habits can cause issues, and making changes can prevent disease or keep it from causing permanent or widespread damage.

Cold weather watering. In th e Tampa Bay area, overwatering can cause mold, mildew and yard fungus to form. Once your grass is established, water deeply but less frequently. Your grass only needs about an inch of water per week. Water early in the day so grass will dry in the sun; wet grass is more susceptible to fungus.

How to tell if your lawn has fungus?

Before you start treating your lawn for fungus or another type of lawn disease, it is imperative that you correctly identify the specific disease impacting your grass. Different lawn issues have different causes and symptoms, and treating your grass for anything that you might be misdiagnosing will only lead to more damage – not to mention that you’ll still have to deal with the original disease.

There are several signs to be aware of that indicate a problem with your lawn, and some of them are more noticeable than others. In most cases, discoloration is the most obvious indication, as grass will turn yellow, tan, or brown in spots. Keep in mind, though, that it’s not always a disease that can cause this. Higher than normal temperatures, inadequate watering, and insects can also cause dead or dying areas, only underscoring the need for proper identification.

Experience Matters!

O ur professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business (2 University of Florida Entomologists on staff, "Father & Son") was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years, with the help of our Operations Manager David Ketchum (26 years experience), we have devised various fool-proof lawn & shrub care options that will have your neighbors talking.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

Lawn Care Programs

Tree/Shrub Programs

Nutrilawn IQ has always been willing to identify turf or shrub damage free of charge. For more information contact us today, and ask about our lawn & shrub pest management services. Mention our post and get $25 off your first lawn and shrub service. 727-733-1159

What Bugs Were on the Mayflower?

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 00:50:43 GMT

Nutrilawn Stops Unwanted Thanksgiving House Guests

Thanksgiving. That special time of year that brings our families together to eat mashed potatoes, turkey, cranberries and corn. A wonderful time to see loved ones. A time of year to celebrate the insects, bugs and pests that also made that famous trip across the Atlantic Ocean to our promising shores.

Bed Bugs

Travel to see loved ones, stay in a hotel, BEDBUGS!!! Those biting, irritating bed bugs probably came over on the Mayflower, Nina, Pinta or the Santa Maria. Bed Bugs have infested Europe, Africa and Asia for several thousand years and it is often believed that when Christopher Columbus, or when the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria passengers arrived at the shores of the recently discovered world, they brought the bed bugs with them. These bugs were common on ships, especially emigrant ships because of the number of people and close quarters on the ships. The bugs were easily mobile with beds, suitcases and clothing. Bed bugs can move quickly across floors and walls. Females lay 100’s of eggs, and bed bugs live in groups in their hiding places, for example mattress seams, headboards, wall sockets and bed frames. Active at night, they usually bite when people are sleeping causing victims to develop itchy welts. The number of passengers in the ships and living arrangements made a perfect breeding ground for the pests.

Bed bugs weren’t the only bugs to make the trip on the pilgrims’ ships.

Lice

Lice and bed bugs are related parasites. Lice can be found near the head and will feed on human blood. Bed bugs can be found anywhere in a home and will feed on human blood. Both can cause itchiness and discomfort. Body lice survive up to 30 days in a suitable environment. Head louse survives up to 30 days in a suitable environment. They spend their entire lives on the human head feeding on blood. The close quarters made infestations aboard the ships almost unavoidable. The sharing of lice from passenger to passenger does not mean that a person is dirty, in fact, head lice prefer clean hair.

Cockroaches

The German cockroach was the most common cockroach at the time of colonists. Although credited as originating in Asia, it is believed to have been brought to Europe in the 1200s. By the time the colonists set foot on their ships to come to America, the cockroach had grown into a very large population. It is also a possibility that this cockroach was a passenger on the slave ships crossing the Atlantic from Africa. The 2nd most common cockroach to make the journey to America was the American Cockroach. The warm, dark hulls of ships is a perfect environment for the American Cockroach.

As you celebrate Thanksgiving on November 23rd, just consider that it is very possible that insects were on the menu for that first feast. The Native Americans often viewed insects as regular food items. Have some chocolate-covered termites on your serving platter? If so, reach out to Insect IQ/Nutrilawn to learn more about our service offerings.

Schedule Pest Management Services Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an in-home consultation with a member of our IQ team!

Rodent Fun Facts | Brush up on your rodent knowledge – It's Rodent Awareness Week!

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 09:41:54 GMT

Happy Rodent Awareness Week!

Original source: Target Specialty Products

October marks the first full month of fall and with it come all the gruesome, monsters of Halloween. It only seems appropriate that we highlight some of the most unnerving critters around during this spooky season – mice and rats – by celebrating Rodent Awareness Week.

There are many species of rodent found around the world, but three in particular dominate as pests: the Norway rat, the roof rat, and the house mouse.

To help you bulk up your rodent knowledge in 2021, here are 21 riveting rodent facts that you can share with your customers and colleagues alike.

Rats' incisor teeth, which are the front teeth they use to gnaw on things, never stop growing – so they must constantly gnaw and chew to wear them down.

• In addition to their continually growing teeth, rats also have incredibly strong chompers. Their incisors rate a 5.5 on Mohs Hardness Scale – iron is lower at 5.0.

• Rats have a built in air-conditioning system: their hairless tails. A rat's tail is filled with blood vessels, which dilate or constrict to release or conserve body heat. A study in the 1980s found that rats can lose up to 17% of their body heat through their tail!

• The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), sometimes called the brown rat, didn't actually come from Norway. It is native to China, but is believed to have gotten its Norwegian name when a British writer deemed it the Norway rat in the 1700s after it had been introduced to England on a ship coming from Norway.

• Female Norway rats have as many as five litters a year and average about 7 young per litter, although there can be as many as 14 individual pups. Interestingly, if food is scarce, female rats can extend their pregnancy for up to 2 weeks to ensure proper sustenance for their litter.

Black rats (Rattus rattus) are superior climbers and can thrive in the upper parts of buildings – earning them one of their other names, the roof rat. However, they can adapt to live in just about any environment.

• Many species of rat are strong swimmers and have been shown to be able to swim for hours and even days in laboratory conditions. (Yes, it's true, rats can climb up through sewer pipes and into your toilet.)

• Rats are omnivores, which means they will eat anything, including human excrement. They are voracious eaters, consuming up to 10% of their body weight in a day.

• In fact, rats have been known to kill and eat mice to eliminate competition or take advantage of an easy meal. This interspecies behavior is called muricide.

• Both rats and mice use their whiskers to help navigate the world. Each whisker can have up to 200 nerve cells, helping them detect air movement, food, and objects in the space around them.

• Neither rats or mice – or any of their rodent relatives like squirrels – can vomit! Researchers believe that rodents lack the neural circuitry and digestive structures needed to upchuck.

• Droppings are a typical sign of a rodent infestation. A trained professional can also use droppings to determine

if a home or business owner is having problems with rats or mice. Rat droppings are ½ - ¾-inch long, very dark in color, and typically have rounder, more blunt ends. Mouse droppings are significantly smaller, about ¼-inch long, and usually have more pointed ends.

• The house mouse (Mus musculus) uses its tail to help it balance while running and climbing. When standing on its hind legs, a mouse may use its tail for support – this behavior is called tripoding.

• Mice are acrobats with amazing climbing and jumping abilities. In fact, mice can jump about 13 inches vertically.

A female house mouse can have up to 10 litters a year, each containing from 3 - 14 offspring.

A newly born mouse, called a pup, is blind at birth. Pups begin to open their eyes and gain sight about 2 weeks after birth.

• No water? No problem for mice. Mice can get all the water they need, about a tablespoon per day, through their food consumption. However, if there is a water source available, they will take advantage of it.

• Like their rat cousins, mice are omnivores that will eat almost anything. Contrary to popular belief, though, cheese isn't their preferred food. Mice prefer food that is high in carbohydrates, such as seeds and grains.

• Mice will urinate continually throughout the day, releasing micro-droplets of urine as they move. Anything they run across can be contaminated.

• In-breeding among mice is not as common as one may think. Protein in the urine helps mice determine who is a close relative and may not be an ideal mate.

• There are 4 species of rodents in North America that carry hantavirus, which can cause a sometimes deadly respiratory disease in humans known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome – cotton rat, rice rat, deer mouse, and white-footed mouse.

Nutrilawn / Insect IQ has always been willing to inspect rodent problems free of charge. For more information Contact US, 727-733-1159, today and ask about our wildlife services. Mention our post and get $25 off your first service

How do I identify animal scat? AKA POOP. Here’s the solution to your problem.

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 09:15:32 GMT

Nutrilawn / Insect IQ Identifying Your Scat Problems, Guaranteed!

Identifying feces, or scat, can be a slightly challenging task since feces may change depending on the animal’s diet. However, by asking the right questions you will eliminate many possible suspects.

CAUTION: Before you engage in scat-hunting, consider the hazards of doing it. Be safe. Droppings are dirty and have germs. Avoid handling droppings without proper protection and avoid breathing near the droppings if at all possible. If you have to touch droppings, use tools and/or gloves (and wear pants). Some diseases may be contracted through dust-borne particles.

Although some animals are active during the day and highly visible, most wildlife is fairly secretive. In cases where observations of the animals themselves are challenging, you may be able to identify the culprit by the droppings it leaves behind.

The size, shape, and color of wildlife droppings can provide important clues. Small feces pellets the size of rice grains could be from rats, mice, or bats. Rounded, pea-sized pellets with rough texture are likely from rabbits.

Nutrilawn / Insect IQ has always been willing to identify animal droppings free of charge. For more information Contact US, 727-733-1159, today and ask about our wildlife services. Mention our post and get $25 off your first service

GREEN UP YOUR LAWN PALM HARBOR DUNEDIN!

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 09:27:47 GMT

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

Let Us Fertilize Your Lawn For You! We help customers beautify and preserve the outdoor landscapes and keep their indoor dwellings pest-free with environmentally friendly solutions of user-valued quality and service. Keeping your lawn, shrubs, and trees in great shape is our specialty. Preventing and controlling pests that would harm your children and pets is our passion.

Experience! The main strength of our lawn company is keeping the grass in your yard healthy and free of weeds. We can also keep your shrubs, bushes, palms, and small trees looking great. It does not matter if you have St. Augustine grass, Zoysia, Bermuda, or Bahia grass. We have been providing these services since 1981 and our Operations Manager David Ketchum has been at the forefront of Nutrilawn for the past 26 years . CALL TODAY FOR A FREE INSPECTION.

Expertise! At Insect IQ / Nutrilawn IQ, we recognize that every lawn is different, and every client has a different idea of what their ideal lawn looks like. When you hire us to maintain your yard, David Ketchum we will sit down with you to determine exactly what you are looking to gain from our services and create a custom lawn care plan that will have your yard looking precisely how you would imagine it.

Experience Matters! Our professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business ( 2 University of Florida Entomologists on staff, "Father & Son" ) was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years, with the help of our Operations Manager David Ketchum, we have devised various fool-proof lawn & shrub care options that will have your neighbors talking.

*Lawn Care Program

Premium Fertilization with the use of slow-released products (Liquid and Granular)
Potash application for stronger roots.
Guaranteed control of Chinch bugs, Sod Webworms, Grubs, and Broadleaf Weeds.

*Tree/Shrub Program

Scheduled inspections of ornamental plants.
Treatments as needed for the control of damaging insects such as Aphids, Whitefly, Scale and more.
Nutritional sprays to keep plants healthy.

Insect IQ / Nutrilawn IQ has always been willing to identify turf or shrub damage free of charge. For more information contact us today, 727-733-1159, and ask about our lawn & shrub care programs. Mention our post $25 off your first lawn and shrub service

Cockroaches in Florida, who are they and where do they live?

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 10:19:51 GMT

Cockroaches in Florida, who are they and where do they live?

The Australian cockroach is one of several species of pest management services (pests that are managed either by the use of pesticidal strategies or physical means) and the most common species of peridomestic cockroaches (cockroaches being pests that live mostly outdoors but may be found indoors occasionally) encountered in southern Florida. This species resembles the American cockroach, but can be distinguished by the presence of light yellow bands on the upper margins of the forewings.

Because the Australian cockroach is primarily outside, an approach to pest prevention and control that includes preventing entry into structures is recommended. For example, door thresholds should be installed tightly, a space the width of a quarter is enough to allow entry. A simple way to look for cracks is by standing inside a structure and checking whether light shines through cracks around doors or windows.

Additionally, habitat removal, such as organizing or removing the stagnant clutter in your garage, would be an effective way to control Australian cockroaches. CALL TODAY 727-733-1159 FOR A FREE INSPECTION

If you need help with Cockroaches or any other pest problems, call Nutrilawn / Insect IQ 727-733-1159

We are confident that Nutrilawn / Insect I.Q., through the expertise and guidance of an Entomologist as well as our 26 year expert David Ketchum, we can provide you with the highest quality service available.

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify pest problems. Take a picture and email it to NutrilawnFL@gmail.com .

For more information CONTACT US today, 727-733-1159, and ask about our pest management services. Mention our post–get a free evaluation and an additional $25.00 off your first service.

Do You Hear Scratching Noises? Roof Rats In Florida

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 09:43:41 GMT

What’s The Cost And How To Control.

Rats and mice enter houses and warehouses in Florida for both food and shelter. They eat just about any kind of food that people are eating. The rats and mice also contaminate 10 times the amount of food that they eat, with urine, droppings and hair. They start fires by gnawing matches and electrical wires in homes, and can cause serious damage. People deal with the most persistent populations of rats and mice both indoors and outdoors. Here’s what to look for.

ROOF RATS

In roof rats, nesting on the ground is uncommon, but they can be found nesting in attic spaces, roofs, palm trees, and shrubbery. Roof rats are climbers and prefer to nest off of the ground. They are destructive to citrus groves, as they live in citrus trees and gnaw on the fruit. They can be quite destructive in attics, gnawing on electrical wires and beams.

Roof rats generally prefer vegetables, fruits and grain; however, they eat ¼ to 1 ounce per day of food from various sources. Because they must have water to survive, roof rats also consume an ounce per day and may travel 100–150 feet from their harborages in search of water or food.

Color ranges from black to grizzled gray to tan with a lighter underbelly. The tail is a bit longer than the combined head and body. Adults weigh from ½ to pound. Their droppings are approximately 1/2 inch long and spindle-shaped. Roof rats live about 1 year and reach sexual maturity in 3–5 months. They have 6–8 offspring per litter and up to 6 litters per year.

IMPORTANT RAT BEHAVIOR

The movement of rats and mice is usually related to food, water, or harborage. Knowing where they are likely to go is important to controlling them.

Rats use any technique to get to food, water, or harborage. Their excellent sense of balance enables them to run on pipes, narrow ledges, and utility wires. Rats, especially roof rats, will climb anything their claws will hold on to, including wires, pipes, and rough walls. Because rats are exceptional swimmers, they often live in sewers, and occasionally enter homes through toilets.

RECOGNIZING RAT AND MOUSE SIGNS

Since rats and mice are active at night and are rarely seen during the day, it is necessary to recognize signs of their activity.

Droppings and Urine—Most homeowners first observe rodent problems by finding droppings or urine stains in and around buildings. Rodents usually have favorite toilet areas, but will void almost anywhere. Old droppings are gray, dusty, and will crumble. Fresh droppings are black, shiny, and puttylike. Rodents urinate while running, and the streaks are characteristic. The urine glows under ultraviolet lights, and glows blue-white if fresh.

Rubmarks—Along runways, smeary, black rubmarks appear from contact with the rodent's body. Rubmarks on walls appear as black smudges left by the rodent. New rubmarks are soft and will smudge. Old rubmarks are brittle and will flake when scratched. Rafters may show swing marks of roof rats.

Sound— Usually rodent sounds are heard at night or in quiet areas. Rodents moving at night often scratch, gnaw and fight. The young often squeak while in the nest.

RODENT CONTROL

Rodentproofing— Rodentproofing is changing the structure of buildings in order to prevent entry of rats and mice. In considering rodentproofing, you must know that:

· Rats can squeeze through cracks ½ inch wide; mice, ¼ inch wide. Any place a pencil can be poked, a mouse can go.

· Rats can climb the inside of vertical pipes 1½–4 inches in diameter.

· Rats can climb the outside of vertical pipes up to 3 inches in diameter and any size if within 3 inches of a wall.

· Rats can jump vertically 36 inches, horizontally 48 inches, and reach horizontally or vertically 15 inches.

· Rats can jump 8 feet from a tree to a house if the branch is 15 feet above the roof.

Critical Elements to Successful Animal Exclusions

✓ A thorough inspection to identify the species involved.

✓ Key harborage sites and factors encouraging rodent build-up.

✓ Animal proofing by the physical elimination of all entry points and potential openings.

✓ Population reduction by the use of live traps, sticky traps or other control measures

Interior Monitoring & Inspection

✓ For thirty-days, animal traps will be set in inaccessible areas.

✓ Traps will be checked once or twice/week for animal capture.

✓ After the thirty-days, the snap traps/live traps will be removed from the property.

✓ All animal exclusions are GUARANTEED FOR TWO (2) YEARS

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Intensive Exclusion

(1) a thorough inspection to identify the species involved, key harborage sites and factors encouraging rodent/animal build-up.

(2) recommendations for effective sanitation to deny rodents/animals food and harborage.

(3) rodent/animal proofing by the physical elimination of all entry points and potential openings through which rodents/animals can enter buildings.

(4) population reduction by the successful application of rodenticides, sticky traps or other control measures.

Interior Monitoring & Inspection

The interior monitoring will consist of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to rodent control. For thirty days (30) following the Intensive Exclusion (rodents only), rodent snap traps will be set throughout the entire building in inaccessible areas. These traps will be checked once or twice/week for rodents. After the thirty-day period, the snap traps will be removed from the building.

Call today for a FREE consultation, 855-930-2847. Or visit us https://www.nutrilawnflorida.com/blog and learn more about our pest management services.

Sting Victim | See What Happens When Yellow Jackets And Bees Sting You

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 09:26:01 GMT

The Aggressive Nature of Yellow Jackets And How To Mitigate Attacks

These wasps play a beneficial role in destroying many insects that attack our garden and garden plants. However, nests near homes may be a source of irritation. If the nests are large or difficult to approach, such as within the walls of a house, the safest method would be to hire a pest control service to eliminate the colony. Any attempt to remove or destroy nests by the layman should be done at night when nest activity is at a minimum.

It must be noted that no matter how inactive a nest might seem at night, any disturbance will result in instant activity by the colony. It is necessary to work cautiously but quickly. Protective clothing is recommended.

Yellowjackets are capable of stinging repeatedly and are especially provoked if there is a threat to the nest. Unlike a honeybee, which dies after it has stung a target once, yellowjackets can sting repeatedly. In fact, when a yellowjacket or hornet is injured it frequently releases an “alarm pheromone” which immediately causes aggressive, defensive behavior from other members of the colony.

To mitigate your chances of being stung or swarmed at your home, remove nests as soon as you notice wasps. Do not attempt to remove a nest yourself. The nest may be bigger than you realize and swarming can cause serious injury and even death when mishandled.

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify pest problems. Take a picture and email it to NutrilawnFL@gmail.com .

For more information CONTACT US today, 727-733-1159, and ask about our pest management services. Mention our post–get a free evaluation and an additional $25.00 off your first service.

Are Tiny Ants Your Problem? This Is Your Solution

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 23:08:20 GMT

Ant Control | Nutrilawn offers ant control in the Tampa Bay Area.

A number of tiny ants can pose indoor problems in The Tampa Bay Area. Don't confuse the pharaoh ant with the ghost ant, the big-headed ant, the crazy ant, or the fire ant. Each ant has a distinctly different appearance and life history. And all of these can be found in your neighborhood!

Pharaoh ant, commonly known as the sugar ant or grease ant, is a minute, honey colored ant about 2mm. long. You may have seen these ants trailing from a socket or crack in your wall to a cookie crumb or to a box of candies.

Ghost ant, is the same size, but transparent on the rear half and gray/black on the upper half. Ghost ants walk nervously when compared to pharaoh ants, which are slower, and in straighter rows. Ghost ants originate in mulches and soils placed around the periphery of the structure. They can migrate up trees and plants touching the side or roof of your home and transfer into the attic and down into the kitchen and bathrooms.

Crazy ants, sometimes referred to as black pavement ants, are solid flat black and a little larger than pharaoh ants. They can nest outside and within your home. They exist in almost every yard in town.

Big-headed ants, are becoming more of a problem in the Tampa Bay Area as they spread slowly eastward from the gulf. They are in between the size of pharaoh ants and fire ants and look similar to both of these ants, except one in a hundred has a large head. They nest in small snake-like mounds outside and can mud-tube the dirt to an entrance or windowsill where they enter the home.

White-Footed Ant, does not bite or sting, nor have they been reported to cause any type of structural damage. They are, however, attracted to sweet foods. Thus, it is common to find them foraging indoors and outside on hedges infested with honeydew-producing insects such as aphids and scale.

Problems associated with the white-footed ant:

• Huge size of ant colonies (400,000 to 1 million.)

• Tremendous reproduction capabilities.

• Variety of food preferences.

• Tiny black body (resembling the crazy ant) enables entry to most structures, natural and man-made

• Not all foods are shared from foraging workers to larvae (making baits ineffective.)

• Sterile workers lay unfertilized eggs; this is food for non-foraging members of the ant colony. (University of Florida Cooperative Extension service: doc. ENY-635)

Sometimes more than one type of ant will infest your residence. The key to controlling your ants is to first identify them properly. Pruning limbs off of the home can considerably reduce their presence inside. Sealing up pipes entering the home, and caulking door plates and windowsills helps keep these ants outside where they belong.

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify local ants free of charge. Simply scotch tape them to a notecard and mail them to 380 Douglas Rd. #6 Oldsmar Fl 34677 or take a picture and email it to NutrilawnFL@Gmail.com

For more information Contact us , 800-526-9123, today and ask about our pest management services. Mention our post and get your first service for free (1 year service agreement)

What’s Eating My Bougainvillea? The Looper Caterpillar.

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:31:01 GMT

Nutrilawn offers Plant Feeding Insect service throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Bougainvillea Plant Pest: Few plants better represent warm weather climates than the bougainvillea, with its vibrant bracts and lush growth. Many bougainvillea owners may find themselves unprepared when suddenly their vigorous bougainvillea vine looks as though a nocturnal villain has eaten away at all the leaves.

The bougainvillea loopers are small, worm-like caterpillars that are commonly called "inchworms." They will move by bunching up their body and then stretching back out, as though they are measuring the space. The bougainvillea loopers caterpillar will be yellow, green, or brown and will be found on bougainvilleas. These bougainvillea loopers are the larva of the somber carpet moth.

In some cases, the damage from a heavy infestation may even result in tender shoots being eaten and complete defoliation of the affected bougainvillea vine. While the damage may look bad, bougainvillea caterpillar damage will not kill a mature, healthy bougainvillea vine. However, it may be a threat to a very young bougainvillea plant.

Our professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business ( 2 University of Florida Entomologists on staff, "Father & Son" ) was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years we have devised various full-proof lawn & shrub care options that will have your neighbors talking.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

Lawn Care Program *AS LOW AS $28 PER MONTH

Premium Fertilization with the use of slow-released products (Liquid and Granular)

Potash application for stronger roots.

Guaranteed control of Chinch bugs, Sod Webworms, Grubs, and Broadleaf Weeds.

Tree/Shrub Program * AS LOW AS $23 PER MONTH

Scheduled inspections of ornamental plants.

Treatments as needed for the control of damaging insects such as Aphids, Whitefly, Scale and more.

Nutritional sprays to keep plants healthy.

Insect IQ / Nutrilawn IQ has always been willing to identify turf or shrub damage free of charge. Take a picture and email it to Nurtilawnfl@gmail.com

For more information Contact Us today, 800-526-9123, and ask about our lawn & shrub pest management services. Mention our post–get your first lawn and shrub service for FREE! (With 1 year service agreement)

Small grey bugs on your walls or ceilings? How to get rid of Bagworms and Casebearers

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 13:32:40 GMT

Nutrilawn offers Plaster Bagworm service throughout the Tampa Bay Area

First, little grey bugs attached to the walls? Have you noticed small greyish to white colored insects hanging on your walls or ceiling? Or maybe it looks like some kind of egg sac? What you are likely seeing is a cocoon-like case, with an animal hidden inside. The common name for these insects is a Plaster Bagworm. The long oval-shaped little case or “bag” that is most commonly found in homes and garages are the cocoon created by the larval or caterpillar stage of a moth.

Just like people, insects have basic needs that must be met in order to survive. For Plaster Bagworms and Casebearer, those needs are very basic. Their diet consists of old spider webs, dead insects, and even human hair. Part of the reason these bugs are found stuck on walls and ceilings is that they have climbed up there to be closer to the cobwebs they feed on.

They are particular nuisances in warm, humid climates, including Florida where their population around homes can become quite high if some mitigating measures are not taken. It’s very common to find Plaster Bagworms and Household Casebearers attached to the exterior stucco, vinyl or wood siding of homes as well. Bagworms will eat wool, but they won't eat nylon or cotton.

What can be done about them?

Thorough Cleaning
Reduce Outside Light
Keep Temperatures and Humidity Moderate
Vacuuming & Sweeping

Plaster Bagworms are troublesome household pests. They’re sneaky, difficult to uncover, and can be unsightly in your house and garage for you and your family. Armed with pest prevention capabilities backed by science (2 University of Florida Entomologist on staff, "Father & Son"), more than 25 years of experience, and state-of-the-art tools and products, Nutrilawn is well-equipped to assess your plaster bagworm problems and mount a strategic response to rid your home of the pest and provide maximum protection.

University of Florida IFAS Plaster Bagworm

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify pest problems. Take a picture and email it to NutrilawnFL@gmail.com.

For more information CONTACT US today, 727-733-1159, and ask about our pest management services. Mention our post–get a free evaluation and an additional 25% off your first service.

Palmetto Bugs! EEEK! What Type of Cockroaches Do I Have?

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 15:36:36 GMT

Nutrilawn offers cockroach control in the Tampa Bay Area

Cockroaches are one of the most commonly found insect pests in homes, schools, and businesses. They love to eat many of the same foods we do and are especially bothersome wherever food is prepared or served. Additionally, they can transfer disease-causing organisms. Fortunately, cockroaches can be managed with a little knowledge of their biology and behavior, attention to sanitation, and the efficient use of commercially available insecticides.

Cockroaches have flat bodies and heads that, when viewed from above, are concealed by a plate-like structure called a pronotum. They move surprisingly fast with their elongated, spiny legs. Their long, thin antennae help them locate food and feel their way in the dark (when they are most active). Cockroaches can be brown, black, tan, reddish orange, or pale green. Most have wings that are short and non-functional.

The most common types of cockroaches in Florida are the American cockroach, German cockroach, Australian Cockroach, Asian Cockroach, Surinam Cockroach. German cockroaches spend their lives indoors. American, Australian, Asian and Surinam Cockroaches live mostly outdoors but may move indoors in search of food or water. Cockroaches can infest homes when brought in with groceries or boxes, and, once established, can readily move within structures such as from apartment to apartment.

For more information: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/IG/IG08200.pdf

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify local BUGS free of charge. Take a picture and email it to NutrilawnFL@gmail.com

For more information today, 727-733-1159, and ask about our pest management services. Mention our post–get a free evaluation and 25% off your first service.

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What is a Sod Webworm? And how do I get rid of them

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 10:43:53 GMT

Nutrilawn offers lawn & shrub service throughout the Tampa Bay area.

As September approaches we are starting to see tropical sod webworm damage because of the amounts of rain we have been getting as well as the daily temperatures. What is a sod webworm? Tropical sod webworms are turf caterpillars found in the southeastern United States. These are active during warm, humid summers, feeding on grass and ultimately creating brown, dead patches. The most well-known of these is the chinch bug, which can inflict extensive damage to a turf area.

The webworm produces a white, silken cocoon around itself at pupation. The moth emerges from the cocoon and flies off in search of a mate. It is important to reduce turf damage as much as possible because the webworm progresses through its different life stages rapidly. The webworm prefers to feed on warm-season turf grasses, especially on newly established sod, lawns, athletic fields, and golf courses.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?!

*Lawn Care Program *AS LOW AS $28 PER MONTH

Premium Fertilization with the use of slow-released products (Liquid and Granular)
Potash application for stronger roots.
Guaranteed control of Chinch bugs, Sod Webworms, Grubs, and Broadleaf Weeds.

*Tree/Shrub Program * AS LOW AS $23 PER MONTH

Scheduled inspections of ornamental plants.
Treatments as needed for the control of damaging insects such as Aphids, Whitefly, Scale and more.
Nutritional sprays to keep plants healthy.

Nutrilawn has always been willing to identify turf or shrub damage free of charge. Take a picture and email it to Nutrilawnfl@gmail.com

For more information Contact us today, , and ask about our lawn & shrub pest management services. Mention our post–get your first lawn and shrub service for FREE! (With 1 year service agreement)

#InsectIQ #lawn #shrubs #turf #aphids #whitefly #scale #fertilizer #fireants #chinchbugs #sodwebworms #grubs #broadleafweeds #lawnpestcontrol #shrubpestcontrol #lawncare #molecrickets

What’s Eating My Grass?! Nutrilawn offers shrub and weed control in the Tampa Bay area

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 16:28:35 GMT

ARE YOU READY FOR THE LAWN OF YOUR LIFE?! $25.00 off initial service. Nutrilawn IQ 727-733-1159

Overfertilization and overwatering can do more damage than good. In addition, many pests thrive in Florida's lawns. ... The most popular of the pests found in Florida lawns, the top 5 most frequent lawn pests include caterpillars, whitefly, mole crickets, fire ants, and chinch bugs.

In Florida, lawn services and lawn fertilization is vital to keep lawns lush, green, and beautiful. Although watering and mowing are great first steps, it takes more to insure your lawn stays healthy and pest free. With the Nutrilawn IQ System, we offer various lawn service options for residential and commercial customers throughout the Tampa Bay Area.

Our professional lawn service technicians are trained and skilled in the art of bringing new life to your lawn. Our family-owned business was established in 1996 and throughout the past 25 years we have devised various full-proof lawn service options that will have your neighbors talking.

*Lawn Care Program *AS LOW AS $28 PER MONTH

Premium Fertilization with the use of slow-released products (Liquid and Granular)
Potash application for stronger roots.
Guaranteed control of Chinch bugs, Sod Webworms, Grubs, and Broadleaf Weeds.

*Tree/Shrub Program * AS LOW AS $23 PER MONTH

Scheduled inspections of ornamental plants.
Treatments as needed for the control of damaging insects such as Aphids, Whitefly, Scale and more.
Nutritional sprays to keep plants healthy.