Pest control doesn’t just target frequent or common invaders such as spiders, cockroaches and ants, but occasional invaders as well. One species that falls under the occasional invader list is the Springtails. More often than not, these super small pests go unnoticed. Springtails become a particular problem during late spring and early summer. However, they can invade a home all year round. A-Tex Pest Management will share more about Springtails and how you can control them outside and inside your home.
Should I Be Worried About Springtails?
Springtails typically invade the inside of homes during the spring and summer. They are usually found in bathrooms, the kitchen, and other areas of the home with high moisture. Springtails are often seen jumping around and due to their small size, can easily enter a home through the smallest crack. They don’t pose any real threat to humans or the home structure. They are regarded more as a nuisance. Springtails are only about 1/16 of an inch in size and are wingless. Their color widely varies. Depending on species they can be yellowish, tan, gray, blacks, and even spotted. They received their name due to the fact their tail springs them into the air, which make them look like they are jumping around. Springtails prefer to live in damp soil, leaves, or underneath the bark of trees and other vegetation. They stay in large numbers. Around 100,000 can be seen at one time, in about 10 square feet of space. They feed on algae, fungus, and decaying vegetation. This actually helps revitalize soil and are considered beneficial agriculturally. However, when they invade homes, they are drawn to light sources and are often noticed jumping onto television and computer screens. They are drawn to light and will invade in vast numbers which makes them a nuisance to have in your home.
How Do I Get Rif of Springtails?
If you have an invasion of Springtails in your home, you can remove them by sucking them up in the vacuum cleaner. Dispose of the bag or empty the container outside immediately afterward or they will find a way out. If you find them around your indoor plants, which is a common place to find them, you can use soapy water and pour it around the plant. This won’t hurt the plant, yet it will draw the Springtails. Once attached, take the plant outside and try to get them out of the pot. Even if your home is properly sealed, Springtails are small enough to fit through the tiniest of cracks. One of the most effective away to keep them out is by using insecticides around windows, doors, and the edges of you home, both inside and outside.
Can Springtails Kill Grass & Harm Plants
As long as they remain outside they don’t pose a serious threat to your home, they typically won’t cause a lot of damage to your yard and plants. However, if you see a large population around your home you may want to reduce it naturally first. Springtails will collect around water or puddles. If there is pooling water from dripping spouts or sprinklers, repair the leak. If they seem to still be present and their population is growing, it’s time for chemical treatments.
Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
A-Tex Pest Management can help protect your home from frequent and occasional invaders including springtails. If you need help protecting your home from invading pests, contact us today.
