FAQ

Please see below for answers to our most frequently asked questions. If you still have questions, feel free to call our office. We are always happy to help!

What is the scratching sound I am hearing in the walls or ceiling?

The most common complaints associated with rats are the scratching noises heard in walls or ceilings. Rodents will make the most noise during the night when they are searching for food and during the colder winter nights when they are searching for shelter. Florida is home to roof rats which climb up trees and screen enclosures and on to your roof. Once they find or create an entry point, they will enter your home or building. Roof rats have 6-8 young per litter and up to 6 litters per year. These rats can be quite destructive in attics, chewing on electrical wires and air conditioner ducts.

Why does my St. Augustine grass have brown spots?

Dead spots in your lawn can be caused by several different types of insects such as chinch bugs. Large brown spots on a lawn can be caused by a fungus commonly known as brown patch disease or large patch. All types of lawn grasses grown in Florida can be affected by brown patch. Humid conditions, mild days and cool nights are ideal for development of brown patch.

How do gnats get into your house?

Gnats will make their way through the tiny holes around windows and doors. In some cases, gnats will fly down through the plumbing stacks on your roof to enter the home. Gnats are also attracted to damp soil. Fungus gnats usually get into homes by flying inside or from infested houseplants brought inside the house. Fungus gnats infest soil and feed upon decaying or damaged plant roots as well as fungi found in the soil.

Is it a flying ant or a termite?

Winged ants have noticeably larger wings in the front than the pair in the back. Termites antennae are almost straight where the ant’s antennae is elbowed. Termite wings are twice as long as their body. Ant wings are shorter and more proportionate to their bodies. Both ant and termites may drop their wings in the house. If the insect has 3 sections like a snowman, then it is an ant with wings, and not a termite!

When should you fertilize your palm trees?

Palm trees nutritional deficiencies are easily prevented by following a yearly fertilization program. To keep your palm tree healthy and green, fertilize early in the season and then every three months for a total of three applications.

Where can I explore and learn more online?

We recommend visiting the University of Florida's IFAS Extension center. Their website is a great resource for insect and rodent identification, as well as a good tool for you to gain additional information. Visit their website.