Month: April 2018

Formosan aka “Super” Termites – What You Need to Know

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First, a little history.

Originally found in Taiwan but most likely came from China in the early 20th century. These pests were transported to the States in the 1960’s is not a native to Texas. They cannot survive in colder climates but are a big problem in our area. I have recently treated a house in Brazoria county this week and wanted to share with you what I know about these incredibly destructive pests.

The Formosan termite is often nicknamed the “super termites” because of it’s destructive habits. These termites are bigger in size and form larger colonies than other termites. This allows these super termites to consume wood at a rapid rate.. A single colony may contain several million individuals (compared several hundred thousand termites) in other species. Moreover, a mature colony can forage up to 300 feet and can severely damage a structure in as little as three months.

How I treated this colony

This unsuspecting home in Brazoria called me when they became suspicious of termites while remodeling their kitchen. After inspection, we determined that this home had multiple construction joints and that a typical liquid barrier could not treat these fast acting pests properly. Knowing that Formosan termites can survive above ground without ever making ground contact  would prove difficult to treat with just a liquid application. We came up with a game plan that only the folks here at Bob Klepac Exterminating Service can provide. Our two prong approach was that we applied Sentricon to the parameter of the infected area as well as leaving Sentricon bait stations. We have plans to return in a month, but we are confident that this home will be completely super- termite free by June.

I wanted you all to be aware of these pests and to call me if you are suspicious of any termite activity. Call (979) 245-5700 to set up a time for me to come over and check things out.  Mention this article and get receive a free indoor and outdoor inspection for your entire home.

Robert Klepac Jr.

grub worm

What You Need To Know About The Most Destructive Pests of Turfgrass

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It was brought to our attention that many Southeast Texans are suffering from White Grub infestations. We wanted to share this very important article and help save many of you from what our other clients had to endure and nip this problem in the bud- before it’s too late.  As many have experienced how these destructive pests could damage lawns. Recovery can take weeks to repair as well as embarrassment for someone who has spent ample time creating a nicely manicured lawn for their home. 

About White Grubs

White grubs are known to be the most the most destructive pests of turfgrass. The turf is damaged when the larvae, also known as the larval or the immature stages of these pests chew off the grassroots below the surface of your lawn. The injured root reduces the ability of your grass to absorb water and other nutrients

Understanding the Signs of Infestation

Rainfall and soil moisture are key critical factors that determine the extent of grub damage. Moreover, properly irrigated soil and adequate moisture can tolerate 20 or more grubs per square foot before showing signs of turf injury. If you had grubs the year before, leaves your lawn more susceptible to grubs this year.

Sampling for White Grubs

To determine the extent of a white grub infestation sample the turf in many sections of your lawn. For a self-inspection cut a square foot piece of sod and inspect the roots closely (about 2 inches below the surface). White grubs are generally small and are not as easily detected as the root damage. Typically healthy turf can outgrow a small amount of grub damage, however, as the weather changes it will be more difficult to treat this problematic pest.

Natural Enemies

In some areas nature controls these pests such as predators, parasites and diseases can keep white grubs in check. Common predators such as moles and skunks are as unwelcome as the grubs themselves.

How Bob Klepac Exterminating Services Treats White Grubs

There are two treatments to control white grubs. The Curative Approach is when white grubs are abundant, applying insecticide may be the only way to avoid serious damage. Proper timing is important, and our treatments are applied only after the eggs are hatched, and grubs are present. The Preventative Approach is the insecticide that is used as insurance and protection against white grubs, and the timing, as well as a flexible schedule, proving the benefits of treating these pests before damage has set in. Furthermore, we will discuss a post-treatment irrigation application to get the most out of our visit.

The key to treatment is to take action before it’s too late

We are here to help.  Please call (979) 245-5700 for a free estimate.