It’s no secret that climate factors such as temperature, precipitation, humidity and atmospheric pressure can influence pest activity. We observe this each year as plants and animals seemingly come to life as we transition from cold winter to warm spring. While temperature is an important driver of these changes, it’s often the combination of these factors, such as warmer temperatures combined with increased rainfall, that can have the biggest influence on seasonal pest abundance.
Spring weather: A catalyst for vegetation growth
Spring in the United States (March through May) generally is characterized by the onset of both warmer weather and increased rainfall. This abundance of moisture catapults plant life into action, turning dry brown landscapes into lush green habitats in a few short months. Unfortunately, blooming plants may not be the only thing April showers lead to. The sudden surge in vegetation growth also can provide an “uptick” in the preferred habitat for many hard-bodied tick species.
Ticks: Thriving in dense vegetation
Ticks primarily thrive in areas with dense vegetation growth, such as tall grasses, leaf litter and shrubs, because these overgrown habitats provide moisture, shade and hiding spots for ticks. As areas with dense vegetation increase, viable habitats for these ticks also increase, expanding their local range and increasing exposure risk to people and animals.
Proactive strategies for pest management
While pest management professionals (PMPs) can’t stop the rain from falling or plants from growing, we can be proactive in working with homeowners to educate them on the importance of landscape management to reduce tick pressure around structures before the growing season starts. During peak months, we must remain vigilant about identifying, noting and addressing areas of concern.
Lastly, but equally important, ensure that wood piles, fallen leaves and other landscape debris are not allowed to accumulate in the fall, as these can provide ideal overwintering sites for ticks.
While PMPs cannot control weather patterns or plant growth, they can help homeowners mitigate tick risks:
- Landscape management: Educate them on the importance of landscape management to reduce tick pressure around structures before the growing season starts.
- Monitoring risk areas: During peak months, we must remain vigilant about identifying, noting and addressing areas of concern.
- Debris removal: Ensure that wood piles, fallen leaves and other landscape debris are not allowed to accumulate in the fall, as these can provide ideal overwintering sites for ticks.
<p>The post How to manage tick risks during the spring season first appeared on Pest Management Professional.</p>
from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/how-to-manage-tick-risks-during-the-spring-season/
Sacramento CA
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