Most of you are probably aware that some termites spend a lot of time below the ground. Subterranean termites, for instance, build vast tunnel networks underneath the ground. It is not uncommon for these termites to crawl as deep as thirty feet below the earth’s soil. Subterranean termites cause the greatest amount of termite related damage to property. These termites also require a fair amount of water in order to survive. In more arid regions, the dry air forces termites to tunnel below ground until they locate an area with the proper moisture levels and a sufficient amount of water. However, during the wetter seasons, subterranean termites will return to the soil’s surface in order to take advantage of the abundant water supply and moist conditions.
For a period of time following rainier seasons, such as monsoon season, the environment is significantly more moist than usual, and standing water is a familiar site. These conditions are ideal for subterranean termites, and it is for this reason that these termites spend the late summer near the soil’s surface. Unfortunately, you can probably assume that this is also the time of year that sees the greatest amount of termite infestations. Pest control professionals have no trouble staying busy after periods of heavy and frequent rainfall.
It turns out that keeping shrubs close to your home can increase your chances of experiencing a home termite infestation. This is due to the fact that shrubs require a hefty amount of water to grow, so termites will pinpoint these water rich areas in soil. Once termites are within a foot or so of your home, then it is only a matter of time before wood-made structures within your home become infested with termites. This is why keeping plants, especially all shrubs, at least three feet away from your home is a good way to prevent termite infestations. If you’re worried that termites may find their way into your home, then contact a pest control professional.
Have you ever found termites feeding on your plant stems or other cellulose rich materials in your yard? Contact us today for a free termite inspection. You should be getting annual termite inspections living in Tucson and the surrounding areas!
