As summer approaches, many New Jersey residents are dealing with a tiny pest invading homes and yards. Springtails are small insects that thrive in damp places and have become more noticeable this year.
These bugs prefer moist areas like basements, bathrooms, crawl spaces, and garden beds with mulch. They feed on decaying leaves, soil, and wood. Although they are hard to see at first, their numbers can quickly grow and become overwhelming.
Springtails can jump far enough to be mistaken for fleas, which adds to the confusion. While they do not bite or carry diseases, they can damage plants by feeding on the soil.
The increase in springtails often points to moisture problems inside homes. Leaking pipes, clogged gutters, and poor ventilation create the damp conditions these pests need. People often spot them near drains, tubs, or overwatered plants.
To fight these bugs, pest control experts recommend sealing cracks, fixing leaks, improving airflow in kitchens and bathrooms, and using a dehumidifier to keep areas dry.
Along with springtails, carpenter bees have also been spotted more frequently, especially near coastal counties like Ocean County. These bees look like bumblebees and have caught the attention of residents this spring.
Homeowners can reduce pest problems by addressing moisture issues promptly to help keep their homes and gardens comfortable this summer.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.