March — Foundation and Perimeter
- Inspect the crawlspace perimeter for termite mud tubes Walk the foundation with a flashlight — look for pencil-width mud tubes on concrete block or poured walls. March is when overwintering termite colonies resume forager activity. See: Signs of Termites
- Pull mulch beds back from the foundation Mulch directly against the foundation creates termite conducive conditions and earwig/moisture pest harborage. Maintain a 12–18 inch mulch-free zone at the foundation perimeter.
- Check and repair door sweeps and threshold seals Winter contraction loosens door sweeps. Replace any that no longer make full contact with the threshold — this is the primary ant and cricket entry point through summer.
- Clear winter debris from gutters and downspouts Clogged gutters create standing water that breeds mosquitoes and saturates the soil against the foundation, which attracts termites and moisture pests.
- Schedule annual termite inspection March is the ideal time — before swarm season begins, while termite activity is traceable but before swarmers alert you to an existing problem. See: Termite Inspection
April — Standing Water and Pest Season Opening
- Eliminate all standing water sources Walk the property after rain and identify low spots, containers, tarps, and clogged drains that hold water for 5+ days — enough for mosquito larvae to complete development. Address each before May mosquito season.
- Place mosquito dunks in non-drainable water Ornamental ponds, rain barrels, and catch basins that cannot be drained should receive Bti dunks (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) monthly through October.
- Schedule mosquito barrier program start April is the right time to set up a seasonal program — the first treatment in early May before populations build is worth more than catching up in June. See: Mosquito Yard Treatment
- Check window and door screens Replace any torn or ill-fitting screens before warm nights when screens become the primary barrier against flying insects entering the home.
- Inspect unpainted exterior wood for carpenter bee damage Carpenter bee females begin boring in April. Inspect fascia boards, deck railings, and porch ceilings for round entry holes from prior seasons. See: Carpenter Bees
D&D Pest Control provides spring inspection and treatment programs for Franklin County and rural Missouri — visit ddpestcontrolmo.com.