Perimeter Insect Control

Lawn care operators can increase their bottom line by adding this very profitable additional service!

I know that we are all still waiting for spring weather to arrive, but we are not the only ones. As the temperature increases, insects will become more active and will look to find a way into your customer’s homes. Offering your clients a series of perimeter insect control applications throughout the season will help prevent insects, especially ants, from entering the premises.

Rising temperatures in early April will provide the opportune time to begin applications. Typically four applications, (April, June, August, October) of UP-Star T/O will provide a great protective barrier around any structure. These applications can be applied either with a backpack sprayer or a tank sprayer with a Chemlawn gun. The applications should treat a band of soil and vegetation 6 to 10 feet wide around and adjacent to the structure. Also, treat the foundation of the structure to a height of 2 to 3 feet. Apply 0.33 to 1.0 fluid ounces of UP-Star Gold T/O per 1000 square feet in sufficient water to provide adequate coverage. Pay special attention to any cracks or vents in the foundation.

On a typical home, you will spray approximately 2000 to 3000 square feet around the foundation. At an average cost of $0.53 per ounce of UP-Star Gold T/O, you should have no more than $1.59 in insecticide costs when using 1 ounce per 1000 square feet. These numbers vary based on your dilution ratio.

The exciting part for the LCO is the ability to charge anywhere from $45.00 to $60.00 per application. Plus this is a service that can be a flat fee for almost any home and can be solicited by email, U.S. mail, or leave-behinds without having to measure the area. Simply adding perimeter insect control could generate up to $240.00 per year extra from a current customer. It is also a good way to pick up a new customer and then sell them on your other services.

Since we are all good stewards of the environment, please follow all label directions. Also, contact your state pesticide licensing agency to make sure you are properly licensed and trained to make this application.

As always, contact your local Advanced Turf Solutions sales representative to have them answer any questions regarding perimeter insect control or any turf or ornamental problem you may have.

Ed Clevenger
Sales Representative