Mar 24, 2025 | Wildlife
Bees are some of the hardest working creatures out there. They pollinate flowers, fruits, and vegetables, making our gardens grow and keeping our food supply strong. If you’re living in Metro Atlanta and want to welcome more bees to your yard, it’s easier than you might think! By making a few small changes, you can create a bee-friendly yard that helps these vital pollinators thrive. Here’s how.
Tips For A Bee-Friendly Yard
Why Bees Need Our Help
Bee populations have faced many challenges over the years—things like habitat loss and climate change. Without bees, a lot of the plants we rely on for food and beauty wouldn’t thrive. Creating a bee-friendly yard is one-way homeowners can make a big difference. Even small adjustments on your property can provide bees with the resources they need to keep buzzing and pollinating.
Easy Tips for a Bee-Friendly Yard
Not sure where to start? Here are some simple steps to transform your yard into a haven for pollinators.
1. Plant Native Flowers and Shrubs
Native plants are like a bee’s favorite restaurant—they provide the perfect food and habitat. Bees especially love plants that produce nectar and pollen, so consider adding a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees that bloom at different times of the year to feed them throughout the seasons.
Some great options for Metro Atlanta include:
- Black-eyed Susans
- Purple Coneflowers
- Sunflowers
- Milkweed
- Goldenrod
Having a mix of colors, shapes, and sizes will also attract a wider variety of bees and other pollinators.
2. Skip Chemicals
Bees are highly sensitive to pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals. Instead of using traditional weed killers or harsh sprays, try natural alternatives. For example:
- Use mulch to suppress weeds.
- Try plant-based or homemade pest deterrents.
- Welcome helpful bugs (like ladybugs) to keep pests under control.
Going chemical-free is not only better for bees but also for your entire backyard ecosystem. Look for green pest control options!
3. Provide Fresh Water
Bees get thirsty too! Add a simple water source to your yard, but make sure it’s bee-friendly. A shallow dish of water with pebbles or floating wood pieces will help bees drink without risking them getting stuck. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh.
4. Keep It Messy (Sometimes!)
While we love a well-manicured yard, bees appreciate a bit of wildness. Allow part of your garden to grow naturally, leaving wildflowers or clovers to sprout. You can even create a small “bee corner” filled with pollinator-friendly blooms and plants that don’t need much trimming.
5. Build a Bee Hotel or Habitat
Not all bees live in hives like honeybees. Many, like bumblebees and solitary bees, make their homes in the ground or inside hollow stems. Consider leaving some bare soil or building a small bee “hotel” from wood, bamboo, or other natural materials. It’s a fun project and a great way to attract nesting bees.
Extra Benefits of a Pollinator-Friendly Yard
The best part of creating a bee-friendly yard is that the effort pays off in more ways than one. Bees will love your yard, and you’ll benefit too! Here’s how:
- More Blooms: Pollinated flowers produce more blossoms, giving your garden extra color and beauty.
- Better Vegetables and Fruits: If you grow a garden, bees will help your crops flourish, resulting in bigger harvests.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Supporting pollinators means helping the environment and contributing to a healthier planet.
Taking the First Step
You don’t need to overhaul your entire yard to make it bee-friendly. Start small by planting a few native flowers or setting out a water dish. Little changes can make a big impact over time.
If you’d like more tips or professional help with creating a bee-friendly space, or if you need assistance managing an unexpected hive, reach out to your local bee relocation company. They’re there to support you and the bees, making your yard both beautiful and welcoming for pollinators!
Mar 22, 2025 | Community News, Company News
The Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose dedication and service have left a lasting impact on the local community. This year, two outstanding leaders—Marilyn M. Helms and Lee Tubbs—have been honored for their significant contributions to business, education, and community service.
Marilyn Helms: A Legacy in Education & Leadership
Marilyn Helms retired in December 2024 after an impressive 25-year career at Dalton State College, where she served as Dean of the Wright School of Business. Her leadership was instrumental in securing AACSB Business Program Accreditation, overseeing a $10 million renovation of Gignilliat Hall, and launching a bachelor’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Beyond higher education, Helms has played a vital role in community health initiatives, serving as Chair of the CHI Memorial Board, where she has been a driving force behind bringing a new hospital to the region. Her dedication to both education and healthcare exemplifies a true commitment to community betterment.
Lee Tubbs: A Pioneer in the Pest Control Industry
A respected leader in the pest control industry, Lee Tubbs founded Enviroguard Pest Solutions in 1997 with a mission centered on quality, integrity, and service. His company quickly became known for its exceptional service and dedication to customer satisfaction.
A former Catoosa Chamber Board Chair, Lee’s impact extended far beyond his business. He recently merged Enviroguard with Northwest Exterminating, ensuring the company’s continued growth and extraordinary service in pest management. His decades of industry leadership also earned him a well-deserved induction into the Georgia Pest Control Association Hall of Fame. At Northwest, we are proud to honor Lee’s legacy and celebrate his contributions to both our company and the communities we serve.
Alongside his wife, Lee has been a fixture in the community, embodying a spirit of service that goes beyond business. Together, they have built a reputation for customer-first values and a commitment to giving back—principles that have guided their success over the years.
A Lasting Legacy
Both Marilyn Helms and Lee Tubbs have profoundly shaped Catoosa County, leaving legacies that will be felt for generations to come. Whether in education, business, or community leadership, their extraordinary contributions have made the region a better place to live and work.
We celebrate Marilyn and Lee’s incredible achievements and look forward to seeing how they continue to inspire and impact the community in the years ahead!
Mar 20, 2025 | Wildlife
Bees are essential to our ecosystem. They pollinate flowers, fruits, and vegetables, making them integral for Tennessee’s lush gardens and thriving agriculture. However, typical pest control practices often inadvertently harm these invaluable insects. As a Tennessee homeowner, balancing pest control with environmental responsibility is a challenge—but not an impossible one. This guide focuses on bee-friendly pest control practices that help protect these vital pollinators while keeping your home and garden pest-free.
The Importance of Bee-Friendly Pest Control
Why Protecting Bees Matters in Tennessee
Bees are not just important for the environment—they contribute directly to the economy of states like Tennessee. From pollinating crops like apples, watermelon, and pumpkins to supporting wildflower blooms that benefit local wildlife, bees play a huge role. Unfortunately, widespread pesticide use has been a key contributor to the decline of bee populations. This decline could have dire consequences for agriculture and biodiversity.
But with a few mindful changes to your pest control approach, you can support pollinator health while maintaining your home’s comfort and well-being. Read below to find out how!
- Spray Pesticides in the Early Morning or Late Evening
When using pesticides, the timing of your application is one of the most critical factors for bee protection. Bees are most active during the daytime—typically from mid-morning to late afternoon. Applying pesticides during these peak hours increases the likelihood of exposing them to harmful chemicals. To minimize the risk, consider scheduling treatments in the early morning or late evening when bees are less active.
Instead, opt to spray pesticides:
- Early morning before the sun has fully risen and bees begin foraging.
- Late evening after bees have retreated to their hives for the night.
By targeting these times, you reduce the chances of directly affecting bees while ensuring pests are still managed effectively. You can also ask your local pest control company if they can accommodate bee-friendly application times to further protect these important pollinators.
- Choose Bee-Ethical Products Labeled as Non-Toxic to Pollinators
Not all pesticides are created equal. Some are formulated to minimize harm to beneficial insects like bees. When choosing a professional pest control company, look for those explicitly labeled as “bee-protected or “non-toxic to pollinators.”
Here’s what to avoid and what to consider:
- Avoid: Broad-spectrum insecticides such as neonicotinoids, which are highly toxic to bees.
- Use:
- Natural products containing neem oil, which target pests while posing minimal risk to pollinators, are a great option. Partnering with a green pest control company that prioritizes honeybee protection ensures the use of eco-friendly solutions.
- Organic treatments like insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils, designed for ethical pest management, can effectively control pests while keeping pollinators safe.
These products allow you to take care of garden pests without risking the health of your local bee population. If in doubt, consult a pest control professional who prioritizes environmentally-friendly solutions.
- Spot-Treat Problem Areas Instead of Blanket-Spraying
Blanket-spraying your entire yard is not only unnecessary but also harmful to the environment. This approach increases pesticide exposure for non-targeted species, including bees. Instead, focus on spot-treating problem areas where pests are concentrated.
How to spot-treat effectively:
- Identify high-pest areas (e.g., near plant roots, under leaves, or by entry points into the home).
- Apply pesticides directly to these areas with precision.
- Use the smallest effective dose to control the infestation.
Spot-treating is a more targeted strategy that minimizes collateral damage to bees and other beneficial insects.
- Leave Some Flowering Plants Untouched for Bees to Forage
Bees rely on flowering plants for food, so when applying pest control measures, it’s crucial to leave a portion of your yard bee-friendly. Reserving areas of blossoming plants untouched by pesticides creates foraging zones for pollinators.
To encourage a pollinator environment:
- Plant native flowers that bloom throughout the year. Favorites in Tennessee include purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, and bee balm.
- Designate a bee garden—a no-spray zone where pollinators can forage without interference.
- Avoid spraying flowering plants directly.
By creating these havens, you ensure that bees can continue to thrive, even while managing pests elsewhere in your yard.
Bonus Tips for Tennessee Homeowners
Incorporate Companion Planting
Companion planting involves pairing specific plants that naturally repel pests with your garden crops. For instance:
- Marigolds deter aphids and beetles.
- Lavender repels flies and moths while attracting bees.
This natural method not only reduces your need for chemical pesticides but also supports pollinator activity.
Avoid Mowing Flowering Weeds
While dandelions and clovers may be considered weeds, they’re important food sources for bees. Limiting mowing in areas where these plants grow allows pollinators to access vital nutrients, particularly in early spring.
Partner with Eco-Friendly Pest Control Services
For a sustainable pest control approach, partner with an eco-friendly company that prioritizes honeybee protection. Many services in Tennessee offer solutions that target pests while keeping pollinators unharmed. Homeowners can help by adjusting pesticide timing, choosing non-toxic treatments, and creating foraging zones. If a beehive ends up in an unwanted spot, contact our honeybee experts to responsibly rehome it.
Mar 18, 2025 | Florida Green Pest Control
Bed bugs—the very mention of them is enough to make any homeowner uneasy. These tiny, elusive pests can invade even the cleanest of homes, causing itchy bites, restless nights, and a lot of frustration. But how can you keep your home pest-free while ensuring effective bed bug control? This guide covers proven methods to manage infestations and prevent future issues, giving you the tools and knowledge to protect your home and family.
A Guide to Effective Bed Bug Control
Why Bed Bugs Are a Problem in Miami
Miami’s warm temperatures and bustling travel industry make the city more prone to bed bug infestations. Bed bugs thrive in heat, and with so many people traveling to and from the city, these pests can hitch rides on luggage, furniture, and even clothing.
Furthermore, as bed bugs are nocturnal and excellent at hiding in nooks and crannies, they can remain undetected until they’ve established a full infestation. If not effectively managed, the problem can worsen, affecting your quality of life and requiring costly interventions.
Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
Spotting bed bugs early can save you a lot of trouble. Here are the key signs to watch out for in your Miami home:
1. Bite Marks
Bed bug bites often appear as small, red welts on the skin, typically clustered in lines or groups. Bites may be itchy, but some individuals show no reaction at all.
2. Rust-Colored Stains
Look for rust-colored spots on bedding, mattresses, or upholstery. These stains occur from crushed bed bugs or their excrement.
3. Shed Skins and Eggs
Bed bugs shed their exoskeletons as they grow. You might notice tiny, pale shells or eggs (about the size of a pinhead).
4. Musty Odor
In severe infestations, an unpleasant, musty smell—caused by bed bugs’ scent glands—may be noticeable.
5. Live Bed Bugs
Lastly, you might spot one moving around areas where people sleep or relax. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed, reddish-brown, and oval-shaped.
Once you’ve identified a bed bug problem, it’s time to take action.
1. Essential Oils
Essential oils like tea tree oil and lavender have some insecticidal properties, making them a mild deterrent. While not strong enough to eradicate infestations, they can complement other treatments.
2. Mattress Encasements
Encasing mattresses and box springs in bedbug-proof covers traps existing bed bugs inside and prevents future infestations in those areas.
Preventive Measures to Keep Your Miami Home Bed Bug-Free
Effective bed bug control doesn’t stop at treatment—preventive measures are just as important. Incorporate these strategies into your routine to keep your home infestation-free:
1. Frequent Inspections
Inspect your bedding, furniture, and luggage for signs of bed bugs, especially after traveling or hosting guests.
2. Careful Furniture Choices
Be cautious with second-hand furniture. Inspect all items thoroughly before bringing them into your home.
3. Declutter Your Space
Reducing clutter eliminates hiding spots for bed bugs and makes cleaning more efficient.
4. Launder Regularly
Wash bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to remove ny hidden bugs.
5. Travel Smart
When staying in hotels or vacation rentals, inspect the mattress seams and avoid placing luggage on the bed. After traveling, immediately launder and dry your clothing.
A Healthier Home
Dealing with a bed bug infestation can be stressful, but choosing the right treatment ensures your Miami home is protected. Effective bed bug control focuses on proven methods that eliminate infestations and provide long-term relief. Consult with a local pest control professional to ensure safe and thorough treatment tailored to your home and family’s needs.
Mar 17, 2025 | Wildlife
Bees play a remarkable role in maintaining our ecosystem. Their tireless work as pollinators supports the growth of plants that provide food, oxygen, and habitat for countless species, including us. However, when bees decide to make their home just a little too close to yours, it can pose challenges for homeowners. If you’ve noticed increased bee activity around your house, don’t panic! This guide will help you recognize the signs of a potential bee infestation and explain how professional help can manage the situation while staying out of harm’s way.
Managing a Bee Infestation
Recognizing the Signs of a Bee Infestation
Before you assume you have a bee infestation, it’s important to identify the signs. Here are some telltale indicators that bees may have established a colony on your property:
1. Frequent Bee Sightings Near Your Home
Seeing a few bees in your yard is perfectly normal, especially in garden-friendly states like Georgia. But if you notice a consistent stream of bees flying to and from a specific location, it could be evidence of a nearby colony.
2. Buzzing Sounds Inside Walls or Ceilings
Bees commonly build their colonies within the walls or ceilings of homes. If you hear a faint but steady humming sound, especially in quiet rooms, it could be the sound of an active colony.
3. Sticky Residue or Dark Stains
If bees have built a colony inside your walls, over time, melted honey or wax may create sticky or dark stains on surfaces. Inspect areas with staining or discoloration to check for other signs of bee activity.
4. Lingering Bees Around Specific Features
Check attics, vents, chimneys, or exterior cracks in the foundation. Bees are resourceful when it comes to nesting, and these areas are common colony building spots.
5. Sightings of Swarms
A bee swarm can understandably seem alarming, but swarms are often temporary . Swarming typically happens when bees are searching for a new nesting site. If they’re congregating nearby, they might be looking to settle on your property.
Why You Shouldn’t Attempt DIY Removal
We understand you might be tempted to address the problem yourself. However, when it comes to bees, DIY efforts can sometimes make matters worse. Here’s why leaving it to a professional is essential:
- Proper Identification: Not all stinging insects are bees—correctly identifying them ensures the right approach.
- Avoid Secondary Issues: Improper colony removal can leave behind honey and wax, attracting pests and odors.
- Health Risks: Approaching a colony without protection can lead to stings—leave it to the experts.
- Bee Preservation: Professionals focus on no-harm colony relocation to protect the environment.
How Professional Services Can Help You
If you’ve identified signs of a bee infestation, partnering with a professional bee relocation service is the next best step. Specialists in handling bee situations offer tailored solutions that balance your needs as a homeowner with the wellbeing of the bee population. Here’s how experts can assist:
- Thorough Assessment: Experts evaluate the colony’s location, size, and species to determine the best approach for removal.
- Humane Relocation: Many services focus on relocating colonies instead of destroying them, often partnering with beekeepers to ensure bees are moved to a better habitat.
- Protective Measures: Technicians use specialized equipment and methods to handle the colony without unnecessary risks to people or property.
- Long-Term Solutions: Beyond removal, professionals seal entry points and recommend ways to prevent future colony activity.
- Education & Guidance: Experts offer insights on recognizing early colony formation, reducing attractants, and coexisting with pollinators.
Contact Professional Services for Bee-Related Concerns
As a homeowner, it’s normal to feel concerned when bees settle a little too close for comfort. But with expert guidance and humane solutions, managing a bee infestation can be as stress-free as possible. Protect your home and support local pollinators by reaching out to your local bee removal experts today!
