West Michigan Bug Control: 2024 Insect Busters Season Ends

October 25th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: October 21, 2024 – October 25, 2024

As the leaves begin to Fall, we finish up spraying for bugs this season. We want to take this time to thank everyone who has trusted us to help control the bugs at your home.

Our Insect Busters service has helped thousands of homeowners over the years with controlling bugs like mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, spiders, ants and more! By misting your trees, bushes, grass and around your homes foundation, we are able to help control the bug activity both outside and inside your home!

A typical season starts around April and goes through the Fall, ending right around this time of year when we begin to get more consistent cooler temperatures.

Please reach out if you would like a quote for service next year and we will gladly get you some more information asap.

Thank you again from the Insect Busters team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A West Michigan Lawn Care company based in Byron Center, Michigan has now opened a Holland, Michigan location to better serve our lakeshore customers. Tuff Turf offers a variety of services (Lawn Care, Pest Control, Bug Control, Holiday Lighting Design & Installation) 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 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 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 Bug Control: Mosquitoes, Fleas and Ticks

August 2nd, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: July 29, 2024 – August 2, 2024 

Mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks are often found near water and trees because these environments provide ideal conditions for their survival, reproduction, and feeding. Here’s a breakdown of why each of these environments is attractive to these insects:

1. Mosquitoes

  • Water Sources: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in or near water because the larvae are aquatic. Still or slow-moving water, such as ponds, marshes, swamps, and containers of standing water, provides a perfect habitat for the immature stages of mosquitoes to develop.
  • Shade and Humidity: Trees and vegetation provide shade, which helps maintain the moisture and humidity levels that mosquitoes need. They also provide resting places for adult mosquitoes during the day, as these insects are generally more active at dawn and dusk.

2. Fleas

  • Animal Hosts: Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They are often found in areas where their hosts are present. Many wild animals, such as rodents, can be found near water sources or in wooded areas, providing a steady food source for fleas.
  • Humidity and Temperature: Fleas thrive in warm and humid environments, which can often be found near bodies of water and shaded, vegetated areas. These conditions are also conducive to the development of flea eggs and larvae, which are sensitive to desiccation.

3. Ticks

  • Moisture and Shelter: Ticks require a certain level of humidity to survive and are commonly found in grassy, bushy, or wooded areas. They seek out moisture-rich environments to prevent desiccation.
  • Hosts: Like fleas, ticks are ectoparasites that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians. Areas near water and trees often attract these animals, providing ticks with ample opportunities to find hosts.
  • Questing Behavior: Ticks often use a behavior called “questing,” where they climb onto vegetation and wait with outstretched legs to latch onto a passing host. Trees and other vegetation provide the necessary platforms for this behavior.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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


Jamestown Canyon virus detected in Kent County mosquitos

July 17th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

The Kent County Health Department (KCHD) detected a dangerous mosquito-borne illness (Jamestown Canyon virus) in part of Kent County following a survey of the mosquito population.

The discovery, which is not a human case, was made during ongoing surveillance and testing conducted by the KCHD near Grand Rapids and Walker. It’s not a human case of the virus, but it can still spread to humans. This warning reminds people to stay alert around mosquitoes, especially if they bite them.

“Fortunately, the measures that people can take to protect themselves from other mosquito borne illnesses will work against the Jamestown Canyon virus,” said Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at KCHD. “With the increase in mosquito activity this time of year, it is good to practice simple and proven steps to prevent mosquito bites.”

Mosquitos lay their eggs in standing water, making it a breeding ground. Flooding and heavy rain in West Michigan early Monday will only create more opportunities for mosquitos to grow.

“Their larval lifestyle requires them to be in water,” Earl said. “If you dump them out, we always call it tip and toss, you’ll get rid of entire generations of mosquitos.”

Jamestown Canyon virus is spread to people by infected mosquitoes from April to September. Vaccines cannot prevent the virus, and no medications can treat it. The best way to protect yourself from the virus is to avoid mosquito bites.

While the symptoms of the Jamestown Canyon virus include headache, fever, and fatigue, severe cases of meningitis or encephalitis are extremely rare. This should provide significant reassurance to you and your family.

Prevent mosquito-borne illnesses by taking the following precautions:

  • Spray insect repellent with 10–35% DEET.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants with light colors.
  • Stay indoors during dusk to reduce your risk of being bitten
  • Remove or refresh water in bird baths, children’s wading pools, water bowls for your pets, and empty other small containers that can collect water in your yard

For more information, read the Kent County Health Department’s press release. This will give you a more comprehensive understanding of the situation and how to protect yourself.


West Michigan Bug Control: The Bugs Are Everywhere!

July 12th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: July 8, 2024 – July 12, 2024 

We’re back to tackling bugs in West Michigan this week after an exciting 4th of July weekend. This time of year sees a rise in bug control efforts, as it’s the peak season for insect activity.

Consistency is key, and that’s exactly what we deliver. Our Insect Busters and Bug Barrier services can effectively control mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, spiders, ants, and more. Many customers are unaware of these services, so let’s explore what we offer.

Each service includes 8 visits per season, scheduled every 23-28 days apart.

Insect Busters: We spray a fine mist to your grass, bushes, and trees to control outdoor bugs.

Bug Barrier: We spray a fine mist around the foundation of your home to deter outdoor bugs from wanting to enter.

Our services are highly effective and can significantly reduce those pesky bugs, allowing you to enjoy your yard bug-free.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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 Nile Virus Confirmed In Kent County!

June 27th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

 

 

 

 

The diligent team at the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) has successfully identified the presence of West Nile virus (WNV) in mosquitoes within Kent County. This important discovery results from their continuous monitoring efforts carried out every Summer. Following the testing of mosquito pools captured in the 49525 ZIP code, encompassing Grand Rapids, Plainfield Township, and Grand Rapids Charter Township, KCHD remains vigilant in safeguarding the community against potential health threats. With their proactive approach and dedication, KCHD ensures timely interventions to protect public health and well-being, providing a sense of security to the residents of Kent County.

The Mosquito Surveillance Team is crucial in our efforts to combat West Nile Virus. Their work, tirelessly trapping numerous mosquitoes across different sites in Kent County, is of utmost importance. Once the team has collected these mosquito pools, they conduct tests to identify the presence of WNV. The valuable data they gather is then shared with relevant municipalities where the virus is detected. This information empowers these agencies to tailor effective mosquito control measures based on the insights provided by the team’s surveillance efforts, a work that we all should appreciate.

This discovery is earlier than in previous years, indicating a need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures,” said Brendan Earl, Supervising Sanitarian at KCHD. “It lets us know that this season’s mosquitoes are now carrying the virus, which could spread to humans. It is crucial for people to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites to reduce the risk of infection.

In 2023, the emergence of West Nile virus in Kent County was not reported until early August. This delay allowed public health officials to implement proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the community. By swiftly addressing this issue, authorities were able to raise awareness, conduct thorough surveillance, and engage in practical mosquito control efforts to safeguard the well-being of residents and mitigate the impact of the virus.

West Nile virus is a severe health concern, with around 80% of those infected remaining asymptomatic, experiencing symptoms like body aches, joint pain, and fatigue. It’s important to understand that although most individuals fully recover, approximately 1 in 150 cases progress to severe illness affecting the central nervous system. Recovery from this can be prolonged, and in some unfortunate instances, the consequences can be permanent or fatal. This highlights the critical need for preventive actions to safeguard against such risks and protect public health.

Without a vaccine or cure for West Nile virus, the KCHD’s emphasis on preventative measures is a proactive approach to safeguarding public health. By promoting awareness and education on effective preventive strategies, such as eliminating standing water and using insect repellent, individuals can take charge of their well-being and contribute to the collective effort to minimize the risk of infection. This focus on prevention empowers communities to make informed choices and underscores the importance of individual responsibility in maintaining a healthy and resilient society.


West Michigan Lawn Care: Happy Summer, Why Bugs?!

June 20th, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters

In The Field: June 17, 2024 – June, 21, 2024 

Summer brings more bugs due to warmer temperatures, higher humidity, increased food availability, synchronized reproductive cycles, and longer daylight hours. The warm weather accelerates insects’ metabolism, development, and reproductive rates, while high humidity provides ideal conditions for their survival. The abundance of food from blooming plants and human activities attracts more insects, and many species have life cycles that peak in summer. Extended daylight hours also give insects more time to feed, mate, and lay eggs, contributing to their population surge. Our Insect Busters and Bug Barrier service will help control those unwanted bugs to provide you with an outdoor space you can enjoy by relaxing without the annoyance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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: Celebrating Our 30th Successful Season Kickoff!

May 31st, 2024 by Tuff Turf Molebusters
This week was a bit different as we got to celebrate the success of our 30th season kickoff!

We would like to extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude to all of our customers and employees for making the 2024 season kick-off a tremendous success! Your support and dedication are what helps give us the ability to provide lawn care services to West Michigan.

An extra special thanks to Pizza Parliament for joining us in our celebration for the second consecutive year. Their concept on pizza is one of a kind and it added a wonderful touch to our event, and we are grateful for their partnership and support during this time of year.

Thank you once again to everyone who contributed to making this season’s launch happen. We look forward to continuing this journey with all of you by updating you along the way with in the field photos, stories and more!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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