West Michigan Mole Control: IMPORTANT Fall Mole Info

October 11th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: October 7, 2024 – October 11, 2024 

Cooler temps are moving in as we are officially in Fall and already through the first week of October here in West Michigan. We want to take this time in our blog post to remind you of some important information regarding what moles are about to do in the Fall.

Fall Mole Facts:

Moles move closer to the surface because the temperatures are cooler now that the Summer is over.

There may be more earthworms found because they too are coming closer to the surface, especially as we get the typical Fall rain. 

Moles are establishing themselves to prepare for the Winter where they won’t hibernate, but simply burry deeper below the frost line and begin making babies. 

Moles are easier to catch in the Fall because they are closer to the surface.

Traps and bait are the most effective method in getting rid of current moles. Now is the time to gear up and start catching them!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Bug Control: When Will Bugs Go Away?

October 4th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: September 30, 2024 – October 4, 2024

The time has almost come where we have 1 more visit to go for our Insect Busters bug control service before finishing up for the season. Bugs like mosquitoes, fleas and ticks will stick around until we start getting temperatures below 50 degrees. This usually arrives around the end of October, but like we all know, Michigan weather can be unpredictable.

  • Keep an eye on the weather temperatures to really determine when bug activity will go away.

Thank you from the Insect Busters team

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Lawn Care: 3 Simple Steps to Prevent Grub Damage

September 27th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: September 23, 2024 – September 27, 2024 

We have been finding an increasing amount of properties with damage caused by grubs and the skunks that are foraging them.

Let’s cover the 3 simple steps you can do to avoid this problem from occurring:

 

  1. Apply grub prevention in the Summer: This is when the grubs are in their most vulnerable stage. Grubs are the larvae of beetles which lay their eggs and hatch intro grubs by mid-Summer. These young grubs start feeding on grass roots, which can cause a lot of damage resulting in yellow dead spots of grass that can be easily lifted up due to the lack of root integrity. This is THE MOST IMPORTANT step as prevention is the easiest way to bypass the mess that can happen.
  2. Apply grub killer in the Spring and Fall: If you rolled the dice by not applying a grub prevention in the Summer and you’re noticing damage either in the Spring or Fall, all we can do now is kill off what is currently there. This is a costly and time consuming process because we have to kill the grubs and repair whatever damage they caused. Please be aware that skunks can cause further damage in the Fall by digging for grubs. This compounds the damage that grubs cause as you can see from our example pictures below.
  3. Maintain a Healthy lawn: Grubs are less likely to infest well-maintained, healthy lawns. Regularly mow, water and fertilizer your lawn to encourage strong root systems, which can better withstand grub damage. Core aerating the soil can also help by making it less attractive to adult beetles, which lay grub eggs.

 

In summary, applying grub control in the summer allows you to target the pests when they are young, actively feeding, and most susceptible, preventing lawn damage and future infestations.

Contact Tuff Turf today if you would like our help!

lawn care grub damage skunks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Mole Control: Do Moles Like Grubs Or Earthworms

September 20th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: September 16, 2024 – September 20, 2024 

Grubs are beginning to show activity in the yard, but remember, moles typically go after earthworms, not grubs. It’s animals like skunks that will be digging for grubs. Trust us, you’ll definitely notice when that happens. Next week, our Tuff Turf Lawn Care team will share some examples!

Additional Reminders:

Grub prevention needs to be applied one time per year in the Summer

Grub killer is needed in the Spring and Fall if activity is found

Grubs chew the roots of your grass, causing patches to die and turn yellow (examples of that next week)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Bug Control: Goodbye Bugs! The Time Is Now….

September 13th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: September 9, 2024 – September 13, 2024

While we were out in the field this week spraying for bugs like mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, spiders, and ants, we noticed that the beautiful September weather has been as enjoyable for the bugs as it has been for us. As the temperatures start to cool, bug activity will decrease. But not because they are leaving your yard, but because they’re camping out preparing for next season. Now is the time to get rid of those bugs while we can still control their activity! With the current forecast, we still have a few more visits scheduled before the season ends. We plan to finish up our bug control and lawn care services by the end of October. However, for our pest control customers, rest assured that service continues year-round (weather permitting). Enjoy these last few weeks of warm weather, as the transition to fall approaches, and soon the lush green colors will give way to vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Lawn Care: Core Aeration

September 5th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: September 3, 2024 – September 6, 2024 

We begin core aeration service around this time of year and highly recommend home owners to perform this routine maintenance for the following reasons:

  • Relieves Soil Compaction
    Compacted soil limits root growth by restricting air, water, and nutrients from reaching grass roots. Core aeration loosens the soil, improving root development and allowing roots to penetrate deeper into the ground, leading to a more stable and resilient lawn.
  • Enhances Water, Air, and Nutrient Absorption
    Aeration creates small holes in the soil, allowing water, nutrients, and fertilizers to reach the root zone more effectively. This ensures that grass has better access to essential nutrients, improving overall health and promoting greener, stronger growth.
  • Promotes Deeper Root Growth
    By reducing compaction and allowing easier movement of nutrients and water into the soil, aeration promotes the development of a deeper and more extensive root system. Stronger roots help grass survive stressful conditions like drought, extreme heat, and heavy foot traffic.
  • Reduces Thatch Buildup
    Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and organic matter that can build up between the grass and soil, preventing water and nutrients from reaching the roots. Aeration breaks up and accelerates the decomposition of this thatch, promoting better lawn health and reducing the risk of disease.
  • Improves Oxygen Flow to Roots
    Grass roots require oxygen to grow and function properly. Aeration allows oxygen to penetrate the soil more easily, enhancing root respiration and helping grass to thrive. Increased oxygen flow also improves microbial activity, which breaks down organic matter in the soil and improves nutrient cycling.
  • Encourages Thicker, Healthier Grass
    With improved water, nutrient, and oxygen flow, grass becomes healthier and denser. A thicker lawn can outcompete weeds, making the lawn more resistant to invasive species and reducing the need for herbicides or other treatments.
  • Increases Resistance to Pests and Disease
    Healthier, well-nourished grass is more resilient to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses. Aeration helps grass grow stronger and thicker, making it less susceptible to issues like fungal infections, insect damage, and lawn diseases.
  • Reduces Water Runoff and Erosion
    Aeration allows water to penetrate the soil more effectively, reducing water runoff, puddling, and erosion. This improves water conservation, reduces waste, and ensures the lawn retains moisture for longer periods, especially during dry seasons.

Contact Tuff Turf today if you would like our help!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Mole Control: Tips and Best Pratices

August 30th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: August 26, 2024 – August 30, 2024 

Controlling moles in your yard or garden can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can use to reduce their activity.

Here are some tips:

1. Identify the Problem 

  • Look for raised ridges, tunnels, and mounds of dirt (molehills). Moles are insectivores, so their presence indicates a healthy lawn with plenty of earth worms.

2. Traps and Bait

  • Using a variety of both of these methods will help get rid of the current moles that are in your yard.

3. Natural Repellents

  • Adding a repellent around the perimeter of your property will help train moles over the long-term that they need to find their food source elsewhere.

4. Consult a Professional

  • If mole activity persists despite your efforts, consider hiring a pest control professional to address the problem. Tuff Turf Molebusters is here to help with both advice and service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Bug Control: How To Maintain A Bug Free Yard

August 23rd, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: August 19, 2024 – August 23, 2024 

Our yards are most enjoyable when we aren’t swatting away mosquitoes, checking our pets for fleas and ticks, or watching ants build an empire of dirt piles.

Tuff Turf’s Insect Busters service helps mitigate all of this things from happening.

Here is our trick to effectively doing bug control:

1. Apply product every 21 – 28 days 

  • According to the product label, re-application is advised within this time frame, so we follow it precisely in order to prevent gaps in between visits.

2. Mist your grass, bushes, and trees

  • Applying the product to the right areas ensures these specific bugs will be controlled effectively.

3. Stay consistent

  • If you stop applying product every 21 – 28 days, bug activity will begin to increase exponentially, especially as we progress throughout Summer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Lawn Care: This Is Why Mowing Habits Matter

August 16th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: August 12, 2024 – August 16, 2024 

We found some great examples this week regarding why it’s so important to cut your grass at the right height. It’s one of the most important factors with achieving a lush green weed free yard.

Proper mowing techniques are essential for maintaining healthy grass, as they can significantly impact the overall health and appearance of your lawn. Here’s a deeper dive into key mowing practices:

1. Mow at the Right Height

  • Keep your grass longer to promote deep roots and prevent weeds. For most lawns, this means mowing to a height of 3 to 4 inches for our cool-season grasses.

2. Mow Regularly and with Sharp Blades

  • Mow frequently enough to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time, and keep mower blades sharp for clean cuts to reduce stress and disease.

3. Alternate Patterns and Mulch Clippings

  • Change your mowing direction each time to prevent soil compaction and leave grass clippings on the lawn to naturally fertilize and retain moisture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo


West Michigan Mole Control: How To Maintain A Mole Free Yard

August 7th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: August 5, 2024 – August 9, 2024 

There are several effective methods to eliminate moles and prevent their return. While it’s true that no method can guarantee moles won’t come back, our mole control program focuses on the top three strategies to address current mole activity and deter future infestations.

Traps: Our primary method for removing existing moles. Scissor, choker, and no-mole traps are among the most efficient quick-kill options available.

Bait: Used as a supplementary measure to traps, bait enhances the effectiveness of our primary method. Although it’s difficult to track the exact number of moles killed by bait, it provides an additional line of defense for moles that evade the traps.

Repellent: Essential for mole prevention, repellent deters new moles by introducing odors that moles dislike. Since moles are attracted to earthworms, which are beneficial for the grass, it’s not advisable to eliminate the worms. Instead, applying repellent around the property’s perimeter discourages moles from entering the yard. This method requires ongoing maintenance for long-term effectiveness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A Grand Rapids Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (ranging from Lawn Care, Pest Control and Bug Control) to the following cities in Michigan:

Grand Rapids, Byron Center, Kentwood, Grandville, Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland, Grand Haven, Rockford, Cascade, Kalamazoo