It's Going to Be a "Buggy" Summer
The summer season of 2023 is rapidly approaching, and outdoor activities will increase exponentially for people and unfortunately bugs too. Exact predictions of pest activities are as difficult as long-term weather predictions, but they do go hand in hand. Weather has the greatest impact on pest populations and their ability to migrate and expand. Temperature and rainfall are the two biggest influencers on pest survivability and reproduction, both of which are clearly indicating a greater-than-average insect activity level.
This past Winter was warmer than normal with ample moisture, which should translate into greater winter survival. Coupled with an unusually wet Spring, these create ideal conditions for pest population expansion. Pests like ants, wasps, termites, mosquitoes, and ticks under ideal weather conditions will thrive and reach peak numbers by mid-summer.
The overall rise in the average temperatures across the country are only going to worsen the situation, as insects need external heat sources to grow and thrive, which will help them reproduce at more rapid rates. Additionally, changes to rainfall patterns and ever-growing drought conditions are also increasing insect populations since stressed turf is less resistant to pest predation.
The National Pest Management Association has issued their latest “Bug Barometer” report for Spring/Summer 2023, which tracks the abundance and activity of twelve different types of pests, including ants, fleas, mites and ticks. Their model is based on surveys by pest professionals across the country. Their report concludes that this year’s weather patterns are leading to an increase in pest activity across the entire US.
Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for the NPMA explains, “Warmth and moisture will allow insect populations to thrive this spring and summer”.
It seems clear that controlling insects this summer is going to be a top priority, as it’s undoubtedly a matter of “when”, not “if”. Now is the time to start preparing to combat the insects that are clearly headed towards you and your customer’s way.
For effective insecticide products as well as combination fertilizer plus insect control products from LebanonTurf, contact your local distributor or reach out to our customer service department at 1-800-233-0628.