Can termites survive the winter in Virginia? Yes. Subterranean termites, which are common in Virginia, Washington, D.C., and suburban Maryland, will become less active in the colder months but can survive by digging deep in soil, or staying in someone’s home. Although you may not see termites during these colder months, termites have a year long presence and will still be actively reproducing and tunneling through your wood. Additionally, although rare, if temperatures do suddenly rise, termites can swarm your home in late winter.
Does Snow Or Ice Kill Termites?
A misconception about termites is that cold winter months will kill them, however, snow and ice actually benefit them by insulating the soil that they’ve dug under. Subterranean termites have colonies underground, which is the perfect situation for them in the cooler weather. When the ground gets warmer, termites will venture farther from their homes in search of some yummy wood to eat.
What to Expect As Spring Gets Closer
Studies have shown that a termites appetite for wood strongly increases with temperature, meaning, as the weather starts to heat up, so will termite activity. Termites do their best work in temperatures between 70-100 degrees Fahrenheit and they prefer a moist climate. If they swarm, they will usually do so between the months of March through June on a warm afternoon after a rainy day and a little wind. More specifically, Eastern subterranean termites tend to swarm when the dogwood trees begin to flower. Spring is when termites leave their colonies and begin searching for a mate. Once a mate is found, the termites will then start looking for a nesting place, which is oftentimes a house nearby.
When Is the Best Time For Termite Control and Inspection?
The end of Winter is the best time to begin fighting termites because their activity is lower and more predictable. If you have termites, it’s important to get them controlled as soon as possible. Early Spring is a good time for a termite inspection because professionals can detect the early activity of termites and control the spread.
Termites in Virginia can definitely cause a big AND costly issue in your home. CONTACT Holistic Pest Solutions to learn more about our termite treatment plans or give us a call for an inspection 434-842-1700. Whether you’re in Charlottesville, Waynesboro, or close by to either, Holistic Pest Solutions has the perfect plan that is mindful of our clients AND our Earth!
*Our Environmental Commitment: Holistic Pest Solutions is committed to the preservation of our environment. Our goal is to nurture the soils and plant life of lawns and landscapes. Utilizing holistic pest control practices that cause the least amount of impact on the environment.
