Springtails are found around the house and other moist areas. They are wingless insects about 1/6^th inches long. They can jump several inches high owing to their tail like mechanism under the abdomen. This tail acts like a spring and helps them jump away from the threat. Hence they have this name ‘Springtail’.

Springtail Habitats

Springtails are found in moist soil. They mostly reside in the amended soil that has plenty of organic matter. Therefore they can be found in plenty numbers in dumps, garden mulches, decaying wood and tree barks. They feed of the decaying plant material, fungi moulds and algae. They are easily seen on stagnant water or rain puddles in gardens. They are attracted to green houses too as it has the right moist and damp environment that they need to thrive.

When the atmosphere outside becomes dry they start invading homes and surrounding areas and public places looking for moisture. They are easily attracted to outdoor plumbing and may infect household for areas like washbasins, potted plants sinks, and bathtubs and damp basements. They may get attracted towards light and may infest through windows.

Domestic Pest Control for Springtail

The key feature to managing the springtail menace is to reduce moisture and remove excess organic material from places around the house for example gardens and flower pots. Another way to control is to use screens or caulk to shut entries of springtails. It is advisable not to use too many pesticides as they won’t be need and neither would they provide long term protection.

Measure of Environmental Modification for Pest Control of Springtails

It is good to carry out some modifications around the house or buildings to curtail springtail menace. To start with, eliminate the breeding sites of springtails by removing the excessive mulch and wet leaves from around the garden and sides of buildings. Places that hold moisture like crawl space should be dried out. It will be good practice not to over water the plants in garden or pots. Get a better drainage system for water and fountains if any.

These simple remedies if practiced can effectively reduce the problem of springtails.