Jun 24, 2025 | Termite Control
Green circles or disk-like plastic stations in your yard can raise questions, especially for homeowners new to pest protection and construction. Are they waste? Signs of a plant disease? Or could they be serving a more important purpose? Many residents, especially those in new constructions, notice these green zones and are unsure if they’re harmless or a sign of concern. This guide will explain exactly what those green circles are, why they’ve appeared in your yard, and what actions (if any) you should take. If you’re interested in protecting your home and understanding modern termite protection options for new builds, read on for clear answers.
New Construction: Termite Protection Options
Decoding the Green Circles in Your Yard
You may spot small, green, plastic objects scattered in the mulch or lawn, often flush with the ground. While it’s natural to wonder if they’re part of garden irrigation or remnants from building projects, these are most likely termite bait stations, specifically from systems such as Sentricon.
What Are Sentricon Stations?
Sentricon stations are round, green, low-profile devices installed flush with the soil around the perimeter of homes. These units form part of a targeted system designed to protect homes from subterranean termites, a threat that causes billions of dollars in damage in the US annually.
How Do Sentricon Stations Work For Termite Protection?
Bait not Barrier: Unlike chemical barrier treatments, Sentricon uses a strategic approach. Each green station contains termite bait that attracts termites searching for food.
Silent solution: Foraging termites take the bait back to the colony and share it, ultimately wiping out the population and its queen.
Continuous termite protection: The stations are always active, working round the clock to intercept termites before they can harm your home.
Why Are These Stations in My Yard?
You’ll most often see these stations in two scenarios:
1. Recent Termite Prevention Service
If you’ve recently purchased, built, or moved into a home, especially in areas susceptible to termite issues, it’s likely that a pest control company has installed these as part of a comprehensive prevention plan.
2. New Construction Focus
Many new homes come pre-equipped with termite protection due to stronger building codes and widespread awareness of risk from termites. If you’re moving into a new development or have undertaken a remodel, you might find these green circles have been placed for your protection.
3. Ongoing Protection
A proactive homeowner, or one with a history of termite concerns, may have had these stations installed as a year-round protection plan. Unlike one-time treatments, bait stations provide consistent monitoring without the need for repeated chemical reapplications.
Are These Green Circles Okay?
EPA Approved and Eco-Friendly
One of the reasons Sentricon and similar systems have become so widely adopted is their reputation for well-being and minimal environmental impact.
- Non-toxic to Children and Pets: The stations are sealed and contain bait only harmful to termites. They won’t poison your pets, children, or pollinators like bees.
- Environmentally Responsible: Unlike widespread chemical sprays, these stations target only termites, reducing unnecessary pesticide use and protecting beneficial insects.
- Public Health Approved: Sentricon is EPA registered, confirming its commitment to health standards and reduced risk.
What Should You Do If You See a Green Station?
Simple Steps for Homeowners
- Leave it Alone: These stations are working 24/7 to protect your home. Avoid tampering, moving, or opening them.
- Check Visibility: Keep stations clear of mulch, soil, debris, or thick grass. This ensures termites can easily find the bait, and your pest technician can inspect and replenish bait when necessary.
- Inspect for Damage: If you notice a station is missing, broken, or has been run over by lawn equipment, contact your pest control provider for a replacement.
- Do Not Cover: Placing heavy objects or landscape fabric over stations can block termites’ access or prevent timely servicing.
How Often Should the Stations Be Checked?
For maximum effectiveness, a pest control professional should inspect the stations regularly (typically every quarter or as defined in your agreement). During checks, technicians will:
- Examine stations for termite activity
- Replace used bait
- Identify and address any damage
The Science and Strategy Behind Sentricon
Why Choose Bait Over Liquid Barriers?
Traditional termite treatments use liquid chemicals to create a barrier. Sentricon takes a different approach, prioritizing environmentally sound practices and long-term colony control.
- Targeted Impact: Bait is shared throughout the termite colony, eliminating both workers and the queen, not just those that encounter a sprayed area.
- Reduced Pesticide Load: No widespread soil saturation, so there’s decreased risk of environmental contamination.
- Discreet and Effective: Green stations blend into your landscape, don’t produce odor, and pose no risk during heavy rains or flooding.
What If You Don’t Have Green Stations?
If you’re not seeing green circles in your yard and haven’t recently discussed termite prevention with a pest control professional, now is the time to consider proactive termite protection. Subterranean termites can invade any home with wood, regardless of age or construction quality. Early detection and prevention are much less costly than repairing damage when an infestation is discovered.
- Contact a professional: Schedule a termite inspection to assess risks and discuss preventative installation.
- Ask about alternatives: Professionals can recommend a range of solutions based on your needs and local termite activity.
Year-Round Termite Protection for Peace of Mind
Unexplained green circles in your yard are not a sign of trouble, but of prevention. Termite bait stations, especially Sentricon, represent current best practices for termite protection, featuring protecting, scientific backing, and eco-friendly design.
By understanding what these devices are, why they appear, and how to maintain them, you’re taking a key step in protecting your investment and maintaining your home’s value.
Take Action to Protect Your Home and Landscape With Termite Protection
If you spot green stations in your yard, know they are working to keep your home protected and healthy. Keep them visible, in good condition, and notify your service provider of any issues. If you’d like to ensure your new construction is protected, or if you’re unsure if your current home has proper termite defense, contact a licensed pest control professional for advice or an on-site evaluation.
A small green circle today can mean the preservation of your home for decades to come.
Jun 19, 2025 | Florida Mosquito Control
Naples is known for its beautiful weather, lush surroundings, and outdoor lifestyle. Unfortunately, it’s also a perfect environment for mosquitoes. The city’s warm, humid climate, paired with frequent summer rains, creates ideal breeding conditions for these pests. Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; their bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and dengue fever. To truly enjoy life in Naples without constant mosquito problems, you need a reliable and eco-friendly solution. That’s where the innovative In2Care Mosquito Control System comes in.
Naples Mosquito Control: In2Care Mosquito System
Mosquito Challenges in Naples
The natural beauty and climate in Naples come with a downside. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, wet environments, and the rainy season creates plenty of standing water for them to lay eggs. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and even harmful. Traditional chemical-heavy treatments often provide short-term relief but may harm beneficial insects, pets, or the environment. To combat mosquitoes effectively and sustainably, a smarter approach is offered.
The Eco-Friendly Solution: How In2Care Works
In2Care Mosquito Control is a revolutionary way to protect your home from mosquitoes without relying on harmful pesticides. This system focuses on prevention by targeting mosquitoes at their source with a unique, environmentally conscious design.
- Targeted Delivery: The In2Care trap specifically attracts female mosquitoes looking for a place to lay eggs. Once inside, they pick up a bio-agent that kills both the mosquito and her larvae.
- Prevention and Spread Control: The female mosquito carries the bio-agent to other breeding sites, essentially stopping mosquito populations before they grow.
- Healthy & Sustainable: The system uses minimal pesticides, only targeting mosquitoes and leaving beneficial species unharmed. It’s a healthy option for households with children, pets, and gardens.
Why Choose In2Care for Your Family?
Families in Naples face a unique challenge when it comes to mosquitoes. Traditional mosquito control sprays may provide temporary relief but often require frequent reapplication, involve harsh chemicals, or fail to target mosquitoes at all life stages. These approaches don’t always prevent mosquitoes from returning.
With In2Care, you get long-lasting results and peace of mind. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice for your family:
- Environmentally Friendly: By using biological agents and avoiding widespread pesticide application, the system ensures the well-being of the ecosystem and your home environment.
- Convenient and Low Maintenance: Once installed, the system requires little effort on your part. Professional checks ensure optimal functioning, allowing you to enjoy a mosquito-free home without extra work.
- Efficient and Proactive: Unlike sprays that kill mosquitoes on contact, this system works at the source, stopping breeding and reducing the population over time.
- Family-Focused: Because it’s healthier for humans and pets, it’s perfect for households with children, animals, and outdoor spaces like gardens or patios.
Enjoy Mosquito-Free Living
The In2Care Mosquito Control System offers Naples families an eco-friendly way to combat mosquito problems effectively. With its innovative design and ability to target mosquitoes at their source, it not only reduces mosquito populations but also makes your home healthier and more comfortable for your loved ones.
Say goodbye to itchy bites and constant sprays. With In2Care, you can enjoy Naples’ outdoor beauty without the worry of mosquitoes. Protect your family, prioritize the environment, and make the most of your time outside. Contact your local pest control provider to learn more about installing an In2Care system today!
Jun 18, 2025 | Good Deed Team
Northwest Exterminating teammates in Smyrna, GA, hosted a First Responder Cookout on June 12, 2025, at Tolleson Park. More than two dozen police officers, firefighters, and EMT personnel gathered to enjoy a delicious meal of burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, and baked beans.
The event provided a meaningful opportunity for teammates to connect with the first responders who serve and protect the community every day. Smyrna teammates worked in shifts to ensure customer needs were met while also supporting the cookout—helping with setup, serving, and cleanup. By the end of the event, everyone left with full bellies and big smiles.
For some officers, this was their first experience attending a Northwest First Responder Cookout; for others, it was one of many. When asked what made this one stand out, Major Louis Defense III with the Smyrna Police Department shared, “This cookout is definitely a display of what it means to be a community.”
While first responders expressed gratitude for the meal and hospitality, the appreciation went both ways. At Northwest Exterminating, it’s a privilege to recognize and thank those who help keep the communities where we live and work safe.
Jun 17, 2025 | Going Green
Alabama’s warm, humid climate makes it a hotspot for pests like fire ants, mosquitoes, termites, rodents, and cockroaches. These uninvited guests can disrupt your home’s comfort and even cause damage—but eco-friendly pest control strategies can help keep them at bay. Check out our guide to green pest control strategies you can use in your Alabama home.
Eco-Friendly Pest Control Methods
Common Alabama Pests
- Fire Ants: Aggressive and quick to bite.
- Termites: Silent destroyers of wood structures.
- Mosquitoes: Thrive near standing water and carry disease.
- Rodents: Damage wiring and contaminate food.
- Cockroaches: Love warmth and moisture and can spread allergens.
Knowing what you’re up against makes prevention easier.
Eco-Friendly Pest Prevention Tips
1. Clean & Seal Your Home
- Wipe down surfaces and store food in airtight containers.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and pipes to block entry.
2. Reduce Moisture
- Fix leaks and use fans in humid areas.
- Remove standing water outside to deter mosquitoes.
3. Maintain Your Yard
- Keep plants trimmed and away from your home.
- Store firewood and mulch at least 12″ from your foundation.
- Regularly empty items that collect rainwater.
4. Try Natural Repellents
- Use peppermint, citronella, or eucalyptus oil to repel pests.
- Diatomaceous earth works well on ants and roaches.
- Garlic spray can help keep mosquitoes away outdoors.
5. Go with Green Pest Control
- Partner with pest control pros who use natural treatments or Integrated Pest Management (IPM) methods.
Why Eco-Friendly Pest Control Matters
Using natural solutions protects your family and the environment while still keeping your home pest-free. Proactive habits like sealing cracks, reducing moisture, and using plant-based repellents offer long-term protection without harsh chemicals.
With a few smart steps, you can enjoy peace of mind and a pest-free home all year long—the eco-friendly way. Reach out to your local pest control experts to help you along the way.
Jun 12, 2025 | Florida Pest Control
Ghost ants are a common nuisance in Florida, especially during warm, humid months. Small but persistent, they often invade homes in search of food and moisture. Their pale, translucent bodies and dark heads make them hard to spot, and their ability to form multiple colonies indoors makes them tough to eliminate. Knowing where they hide and how to prevent them is key to keeping these tiny pests out.
A Guide to Ghost Ants in Florida
Top Signs of a Ghost Ant Infestation
Ghost ants are drawn to moisture and sweets, often showing up in kitchens and bathrooms. Here’s how to spot an infestation:
- Visible Ant Trails: Fast-moving lines of ants along counters or walls, especially near sugary spills.
- Clusters Near Moisture: Found around sinks, leaky pipes, or humid spots.
- Sweet Smell When Crushed: A faint, sugary scent may be noticeable when ants are squashed.
If you spot any of these signs, act quickly to prevent the problem from spreading.
Where They Like to Hide
Ghost ants are masters of staying out of sight, which makes them especially challenging to deal with. They can squeeze into incredibly tight spaces and establish nests in various hidden areas. Here are some of their favorite hiding spots:
1. Behind Baseboards
Baseboards provide a discreet entry point as well as a cozy nesting area. These spots are particularly appealing in homes with moisture issues.
2. Under Sinks
Leaky pipes and damp cabinets create ideal conditions for these ants. Inspect these areas frequently, as they’re a common hotspot for ant activity.
3. Potted Plants
Ghost ants often nest within the moist soil of indoor plants, so be sure to check for unusual movement around your greenery.
4. Inside Electrical Outlets
Small spaces like electrical outlets or wall voids are perfect for these ants to build nests and expand their colonies unnoticed.
5. Kitchen Appliances
Ghost ants are drawn to food sources, and kitchen appliances often provide hidden crumbs and moisture. Check behind refrigerators, under toasters, and inside cabinets for signs of activity.
How to Prevent and Get Rid of Ghost Ants
Ghost ants are persistent, but with a few proactive steps, you can keep them out.
Prevention Tips:
- Clean Up Food: Wipe counters, clear crumbs, and store food in airtight containers.
- Fix Leaks: Repair pipes and reduce moisture in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Seal Entry Points: Close gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards with caulk or weather stripping.
- Check Plants: Don’t overwater and inspect indoor plants for signs of ants.
How to Get Rid of Them:
- Use Baits: Place sweet or protein-based ant baits along active trails.
- Erase Trails: After you have eliminated the ants, clean surfaces with vinegar and water to disrupt scent paths.
- Try Natural Repellents: Diatomaceous earth and essential oils like peppermint can help deter them.
Because ghost ants form multiple colonies, a persistent problem may need professional treatment.
Don’t Ignore Ghost Ants
Ghost ants may be tiny, but the inconvenience they bring is anything but small. By understanding the signs of an infestation and taking proactive steps to prevent them, you can keep your home ant-free and comfortable year-round. Contact a trusted pest control professional for expert advice and effective treatments to reclaim your home today!
