What Is The Cost of Residential Termite Control in Crown Point
Termites can silently cause extensive damage to your home, compromising its structural integrity. We understand how challenging the idea of termite infestations can be. That’s why it’s important to invest in residential termite control Crown Point to protect your home and peace of mind.
In this blog, we’ll break down the costs associated with termite control and the factors that influence pricing.
Getting To Know The Termite Control Costs
The cost of termite control varies significantly depending on several factors. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,200 for treatments, with some cases exceeding $3,000 for extensive infestations. Knowing what influences these costs can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions.Types of Termite Control Treatments
1. Liquid Treatments
Liquid treatments involve applying a termiticide around your property to create a protective barrier. This method is highly effective for both prevention and extermination. Costs typically range between $3 to $16 per linear foot, depending on the size of the area treated.2. Baiting Systems
Baiting systems use strategically placed bait stations to attract and eliminate termites. These systems are often combined with other treatments and cost between $2,000 to $3,000 for installation and ongoing maintenance.3. Fumigation
Fumigation is a comprehensive solution for severe infestations. It involves sealing your home and introducing a gas that eradicates termites. The cost can range from $1,200 to $2,500, depending on the size of your property and the infestation’s severity.Factors That Impact the Cost of Termite Control
Size of the Infestation
A minor infestation is quicker and less expensive than an extensive one. Larger infestations may require multiple treatments, driving up costs.Property Size and Structure Type
The bigger the property, the higher the cost of treatment. Certain construction materials may also influence the complexity and expense of termite control.Treatment Methods and Frequency
Preventative measures are generally less expensive than reactive treatments. Choosing a comprehensive treatment plan may initially cost more, but saves money in the long run.Additional Considerations
- Inspections: Regular inspections typically cost $50 to $150.
- Warranties: Some providers offer warranties, which add to the upfront cost but provide long-term protection.
How to Find Affordable Termite Control Services
Finding affordable termite control services doesn’t mean settling for subpar quality. Here’s how you can ensure you get the best value:- Compare quotes from reputable companies.
- Look for providers offering comprehensive services at competitive rates.
- Check for certifications and customer reviews to gauge reliability.
The Value of Professional Termite Control Services
Professional termite control is an investment that pays off in the long run. While DIY solutions may seem appealing, they often fail to address the root of the problem, leading to recurring infestations. Professionals provide effective treatments tailored to your home’s specific needs. Benefits include:- Thorough inspections and early detection.
- Effective treatments that eliminate infestations.
- Long-term savings by preventing costly structural damage.
Conclusion
Protecting your home from termites doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Understanding the costs and benefits of professional termite control can help you make informed decisions. If you’re looking for reliable and affordable termite control services, we’re here to help. Ready to safeguard your home from termites? Contact us today for expert residential termite control Crown Point. Let’s work together to protect your home and ensure peace of mind.How To Create Spider-Free Spaces in Crown Point With Proven Techniques
Spiders in your home can disrupt your peace of mind and create an unwelcome environment. While many people turn to quick fixes, these often fail to provide lasting relief. That’s where we step in with our residential spider control service Crown Point, offering reliable, effective, and long-term solutions.
Our team specializes in turning spider-infested spaces into comfortable, pest-free homes, using proven and eco-friendly techniques.
Understanding the Challenges of Spider Infestations
Spiders often enter homes seeking shelter, food, and suitable environments to build webs. Humid basements, cluttered attics, and quiet corners are their favorite spots. For homeowners, spider infestations go beyond inconvenience. While most species are harmless, some can pose health risks through bites or trigger anxiety. Their webs can also mar the cleanliness of your home. Tackling this problem requires more than a broom or over-the-counter spray—it calls for expertise.Why Professional Spider Removal Services Matter
Our professional spider removal services stand out because we approach each case with precision and care. DIY methods might seem cost-effective, but they rarely address the root cause of infestations. We have the training, tools, and treatments to identify spider species and their hiding places. With our residential spider control service Crown Point, we don’t just remove spiders; we implement strategies to keep them from coming back. Benefits of choosing professional services:- Thorough inspection to locate spiders and entry points.
- Specialized treatments that target spiders without harming your family or pets.
- Expert advice to prevent future infestations.
Proven Techniques for Spider-Free Homes
Our process begins with a detailed inspection to understand the extent of the problem. From there, we craft a customized treatment plan that works specifically for your home.Inspection and Assessment
We identify where spiders are hiding and what attracts them to your property. This allows us to target the problem at its source.Treatment Solutions
Using advanced tools and treatments, we eliminate spiders effectively. Our team applies these methods to areas like:- Window and door frames.
- Basements and attics.
- Exterior walls and crevices.
Preventative Measures to Keep Spiders Away
Beyond our treatments, we empower homeowners to maintain a spider-free home. Prevention is key, and simple steps can make a big difference:- Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors.
- Keep clutter to a minimum in storage areas.
- Regularly vacuum corners and under furniture.
- Install screens on windows and vents to block entry points.
Eco-Friendly Practices in Spider Control
We believe pest control should be safe for both your family and the environment. That’s why we prioritize eco-friendly methods. Our residential spider control service uses treatments that are tough on spiders but safe for your loved ones. By working with nature, we ensure that our solutions are sustainable and responsible.In Conclusion
We’re more than just a pest control service—we’re passionate about what we do. Our experience, dedication, and love for working with nature make us the trusted name in Crown Point. When you choose our residential spider control service Crown Point, you’re choosing a team that genuinely cares about your home and comfort. From detailed inspections to ongoing support, we provide solutions that last. Don’t let spiders take over your home. With The Green Advantage, you can reclaim your space and enjoy a spider-free environment.5 Challenges in Wiping Out Rodent Risks for Crown Point Businesses
Running a business in Crown Point, Indiana, means tackling many challenges, and managing rodent risks is one of the most significant. A rodent infestation can harm your business’s reputation, disrupt operations, and even lead to health risks. We understand the importance of effective rodent control and how it can impact your business’s success. Over the years, we have focused on providing reliable commercial rodents control service Crown Point to ensure businesses can operate smoothly and safely.
Today, we will break down five key challenges businesses face when managing rodent risks and how expert pest control can help.
Challenge #1: Identifying Rodent Infestations Early
Rodents can sneak into businesses unnoticed and start causing damage without being detected. In many cases, businesses may not realize they have a rodent problem until it’s too late, leading to costly repairs and health concerns. With years of experience in Crown Point pest control for rodents, we know how important it is to have a proactive approach. Rodents can hide in dark corners, walls, and ceilings, challenging early identification. That’s where we come in. Our professional team has the expertise and devices to identify even the smallest signs of rodent activity. We can spot potential entry points, nests, and areas where rodents may be living, preventing a full-blown infestation.Challenge #2: Rodent Control in Complex Commercial Spaces
Managing rodent infestations becomes even more complicated in large commercial spaces like warehouses, restaurants, or office buildings. These spaces can provide numerous entry points and hiding spots for rodents. Without a focused pest control plan, it can be difficult to ensure that all areas are covered, which leads to ineffective rodent management. A commercial rodents control service Crown Point, like ours, is equipped to handle a variety of commercial environments. We assess your property’s unique layout and design a customized plan to ensure all areas are treated and protected.Challenge #3: Managing Outdoor and Indoor Rodent Activity
Rodents often move between the two environments, creating an ongoing battle to keep them out of your building. With pest control for rodents, we specialize in managing both indoor and outdoor rodent activity. Our comprehensive service ensures that the areas around your business are properly protected while addressing any indoor rodent issues. We use a combination of bait, traps, and exclusion methods to keep rodents from entering your building in the first place.Challenge #4: Maintaining Safe and Clean Environments
For businesses, maintaining a clean and safe environment is non-negotiable. Rodents can contaminate food supplies, spread diseases, and damage property, making their presence particularly dangerous in restaurants, grocery stores, and food processing facilities. However, managing rodent control doesn’t have to disrupt the cleanliness of your business. Our commercial rodents control service focuses on implementing pest control strategies that don’t interfere with your business operations. We prioritize using safe, non-toxic methods to ensure your environment remains hygienic and pest-free. Our team works discreetly, ensuring that our efforts don’t disrupt your daily business functions, allowing you to maintain a safe space for employees and customers.Challenge #5: Preventing Rodent Reinfestation
After investing time and resources into getting rid of rodents, many businesses are again dealing with the same issue. This can be particularly costly and time-consuming. Preventing reinfestation requires a long-term approach, and that’s where our expertise truly shines. Our commercial rodent control service Crown Point includes long-term prevention strategies that ensure rodents won’t return. We don’t just remove the immediate problem; we focus on eliminating the conditions that allow rodents to thrive. From sealing entry points to offering ongoing monitoring and maintenance, we take every step necessary to ensure your business remains rodent-free for the long haul.Conclusion
Managing rodent risks is not something any business should take lightly. From early detection to long-term prevention, dealing with rodents effectively requires a detailed and proactive approach. At The Green Advantage, we’re proud to offer expert commercial rodents control service Crown Point that addresses these challenges head-on. Our team is dedicated to helping businesses protect their reputation, maintain a clean environment, and keep their operations running smoothly. If you're dealing with rodent risks or simply want to ensure your business stays protected, contact us today. Our knowledge, experience, and commitment to quality are unmatched in the industry, and we’re here to help you find lasting solutions. Don’t wait until it’s too late—let us help you manage your rodent control needs with care and precision.Cockroaches, Oh My!!
Have no fear, we are here....for YOU!!
Finding a cockroach in your home or workplace can be a terribly frightening event. The horror stories we have seen, or more than likely heard about, are terrifying. The reproduction rate is astounding, with potential to reach millions in a single year!! The filth that comes with them, including the increase in risk of disease. Their evasiveness and speed is simply creepy.
Let’s take a look at some of the facts regarding these repulsive pests!
There are approximately 4,000 species of cockroaches worldwide. Far less actually cause people any trouble. There are 5 we typically see causing problems for people in our area.
- German Cockroach
- American Cockroach
- Oriental Cockroach
- Brown-banded Cockroach
- Wood Roach
We ARE local, We support OUR community, and We are here for YOU!!
Wildlife
Safe, Legal, and Humane Wildlife Managment
The Green Advantage is your resource for managing wildlife. Raccoons getting in your garbage? Groundhogs digging under your concrete? Squirrels chewing through your siding? Opossums making a home of yours? Bats spending the winter in your attic? Birds nesting in your entry way?
With the most qualified and experienced pest control technicians available, you can rest assured you are in good hands. Not only can we advise on how to avoid these issues, you can feel good that the situation has been handled by professionals in a legal and humane manner.
We all love nature and we all love the cute little critters….until they get too close for comfort. Wildlife can cause insurmountable damage to your home, businesses, and assets. Some examples of problems associated with wildlife are:
1. Raccoons – When raccoons get comfortable around people, their fear of humans dissipates. Once they have entered a home, the chances they will do so again is extremely likely. They will wreak havoc on lawns, turning your pride and joy into their tasty buffet. When cornered, they are no longer that cute little bandit, instead they are defensive beast that will stop at nothing to get free.
2. Groundhogs – Burrowing in the ground is where they naturally make their homes. Unfortunately, concrete makes a perfect shelter for the roof of their new home. When excavating the base of your slab, cracks and breakage are inevitable. The repairs typically require mud-jacking or repouring; these can be costly endeavors.
3. Squirrels – Masters of stashing food for the offseason, structures make a convenient hiding spot. Squirrels have multiple places they hide food for the winter, so many in fact, they often don’t remember where they all are. Once they get into an attic, they typically find alternate entry points. If an entry point is blocked, they will make another; especially on buildings sided with wood.
4. Opossums – Like raccoons, get more and more comfortable around humans. These opportunistic omnivores make a field day of your trash. They also love taking advantage of all the hard work you’ve done in your gardening project.
5. Bats – Known for taking advantage of your warm attic to spend the winter, it is not uncommon for bats to get comfortable in the summer as well. They also love nooks and crannies all over buildings and under eaves.
6. Birds – Beautiful and majestic when in their natural habitat, birds are known disease spreaders. Most don’t know that this is where west nile virus originates, birds carry it, mosquitos spread it. Also known to spread e-coli and others. This is in addition to the mess their nests leave all over your home, and the mites that survive long after they are gone.
7. Skunks – Need I say more.
All of these are known for bringing other pests (fleas, ticks, mites, and lice) and carrying disease (distemper, rabies, leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and many more). Many of these risks don’t go away immediately after animals are removed, often disinfection is necessary to mitigate these risks. Fortunately, NWI’s most qualified and experienced pest control operators are trained and ready for all of these situations. We are the solution to legal and humane wildlife management.We ARE local, We support OUR community, and We are here for YOU!!!
Bed Bugs, more information
Do you suspect BedBugs? This information is for you!
Bed bugs are hitchhikers by nature. They travel from place to place, sneaking around, and starting new infestations. People often blame themselves for the contamination, when the truth is, unlike many pests, there is nothing they could have done to mitigate their risk.
Many of the environmental issues that play a part in other pest issues, like sanitation, are not a factor for these invaders. The bed bug’s natural environment is where their hosts (us) sleep, or at least spend time idle in the dark. This is the reason movie theaters have been known to have difficulties with these blood suckers. Unlike mosquitos, humans are their preferred host; in fact, they cannot survive for long without human blood meals. Like fleas, they need specific proteins to survive, proteins that are available only in human blood. Even though they will feed on other hosts like dogs, they cannot survive, let alone thrive, long periods without human blood.
Hotels or traveling are often the first things that come to mind when thinking about bed bugs. The truth is that the problem is often a lot closer to home. Often a friend or family member may be the culprit. It has also been noted that schools, especially when coats are hung next to each other (including lockers), have helped transport them. Other places are medical facilities, retirement homes, movie theaters, and other places that people are in close proximity with each other. One of the main ways bed bugs get from place to place is by clinging to clothing, then moving to another person’s clothing. Eventually they find a nice hiding spot in a couch, chair, or bed. Despite their name, they don’t mind hanging out in a lazy boy, and feeding while you are watching your favorite movie.
Certain people are more prone to allergic reactions from bites. It is not uncommon for 2 people who share a bed to explain different experiences. One may insist that there is nothing there and no reason to be alarmed. The other person will insist something is going on and they have skin reactions as evidence. In these circumstances, it is likely that both individuals are hosts, one simply shows the reaction while the other doesn’t. Although this is true, it has been noticed that some attract bed bugs more than others. This more than likely has to do with the amount of carbon dioxide someone releases and differences in body heat. Like mosquitos, these two characteristics are how bed bugs identify hosts.
If you suspect bed bugs, it is best to have a professional inspection. Technicians are familiar with the biology and activity of the pest. This includes being very familiar with where to look and what signs to look for. Trained technicians can typically find bed bugs when others don’t.
If bed bugs are found, I highly advise NOT using store bought remedies. Bed Bugs are known to be resistant to the active ingredients in these products. In addition, they act as a repellent, which can make abatement far more difficult by pushing the pests into other rooms, into walls, electrical outlets, deeper in bedframes, and into stored clothing.
The other problem with consumer products is the false claims the commonly make. Many are labelled as “kills bed bugs and eggs”, when a deeper look shows these products contain nothing that has any effect on eggs and often only a contact kill (it must be applied directly to the bed bug) to be lethal. In the rare case that I’ve heard of success with these products, it is nearly always 3 to 6 months later, and the problem returns. More often than not, those who attempt these products end up spending far more than those that receive service from a high quality trained professional. They end up needing professional service due to the ineffectiveness and false claims of the consumer products.
As NWI’s most qualified pest control professionals, The Green Advantage has completed and continues its research on all areas of pest management. We have developed a proprietary method on eliminating bed bugs. This includes several different products and formulations. These products are used due to their mode of action (the specific way an active ingredient effect a target). We are devoted advocates of resistance management and continue to be a leader due to the continued research.
The Green Advantage has also developed a prevention program designed for high-risk individuals. Designed for people who don’t want to worry about the high costs of abatement and are unwilling or unable to avoid the high-risk environments. Common recipients of this program are retirement home workers, teachers, nurses, and those with family members who have or have had bed bug issues. We also use this program to extend warranties on abatement services. This adds to our success record as victims of bed bugs are at an extremely high risk of reinfestation.
If you suspect bed bugs or any other pests for that matter, you have NWI’s most qualified pest control professionals ready to serve you. An inspection gives you a professional, honest assessment of the situation. We will not nor have we ever marketed services that are unnecessary (as we’ve witnessed others do). We also do not over service customers as this is not responsible use of products, in addition we pride ourselves on our honesty and integrity as well as our vast knowledge and experience.
We ARE local, We support OUR community, and We are here for YOU!!!
The Green Advantage – Updated Mission and Vision
Mission and Vision Statement
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to help people by providing incomparable, honest solutions, using a scientific approach and integrity as our guide.Vision Statement:
To revolutionize the service industry bringing back honesty, integrity, and customer service.Core Values:
Honestly Integrity Knowledge InnovationOur Objectives:
1. Expand our territory 2. Enhance the knowledge of our staff, allowing them to utilize the knowledge and integrity to provide innovative solutions3. Provide staff with resources that cultivate these values
The Balance — Price and Quality
Don't Compromise!!!
A price lower than what is sensible is a red flag for several reasons:
- Rarely will you get what is promised from unreasonably low pricing.
- Poor pricing policies are an indicator of inexperience.
- Often, the original problem will not even be solved.
- Was money really saved if the original issue still exists?
Prices higher than anticipated raise the question of what else is included:
- Is there a warranty?
- Is the scheduling acceptable (faster usually costs more)?
- Is the reputation becoming?
- Ultimately, is this something that fits in the budget?
This leads me to my ultimate question, does this save me time and solve a predicament? To put it another way, how much does this solution involve me? The less the conclusion involves me the more I’m willing to pay for it. If I can’t afford the solutions that actually solve the problem, I do not waste money on lower priced options that typically only solve my issues on paper. There is a tendency to do this as it makes us feel as if we have done something. Often, we try to hold the lower price business or product to the standards of the higher; this has never turned out to be favorable to me. Paying for a service that does not solve an issue is simply wasting money. In the world of environmental science, we use the term economic threshold. Simply put, what is the amount we are willing to spend to get a desired result. When working with agriculture this is a mathematical equation; If we treat, we save this amount of crop, if the dollar amount of crop we save exceeds the cost of the application, it is wise to do so. If the dollar amount of crop that can be saved does not exceed the cost of the application, the application will rarely occur. instances that would be exceptions would be the risk of an issue spreading and the potential for further damage. At The Green Advantage, we are always looking for better ways to solve problems. Adding value to our services has allowed us to help so many people. Influencing others to follow in this strategy is extremely satisfying, it means that we are helping even more people by raising the standard of the industry. We will continue to utilize the most advanced techniques, increasing value further while enhancing effectiveness and safety. For all your pest control needs, you deserve better pest control. We are NWI’s most qualified pest control professionals.We ARE local! We support OUR community!! And…We are here for YOU!!!!
The Green Advantage – Updated Business Plan
Our Business Plan - Available to YOU!
Business Plan
I. Business Description
The Green Advantage was established on January 1, 2009 as an S-corporation under Illinois state laws, and re-established on January 1, 2018 under Indiana state laws. We are the most qualified pest control experts with extensive knowledge of the environmental, biological, agricultural, and entomological sciences. Holding a multitude of state and associative certifications including: Office of Indiana State Chemist, Illinois Department of Agriculture, Illinois Department of Public Health, International Society of Arboriculture, National Pest Management Association, Indiana Pest Management Association, and others. Our focus is on providing the most extensive pest control of the highest standard. The Green Advantage has been known for being a leader through innovation, knowledge and experience that is revolutionizing the industry. We fulfill the need and importance of high quality customer service utilizing human interaction and quality control. Many of our techniques and equipment are proprietary and only available through The Green Advantage. Management Team The Green Advantage currently employs 11 full-time employees and 2 part-time employee. President – Jon Ipema Jon has over 20 years of experience managing and operating businesses. Jon is one of the most experienced and licensed pest control applicators in the country, with a special focus on biological, chemical, environmental, and safety factors within the industry. General Manager/Chief Financial Officer – Bridget De St Jean. Bridget has more than 20 years of experience on financial planning and human resources in various industries. Bridget has been with The Green Advantage for over six years. Operations Manager – Mike Bredan Mike has over 20 years of pest control experience, including management, sales, training, safety, quality control and field operations. Mike has been employed with The Green Advantage for over two years and runs the daily operations. Director of Sales – Andre Vena Andre has over 18 years of sales and customer service experience in a variety of industries. For the past six years Andre has led the sales team for The Green Advantage. Marketing Director – Samantha Ipema Samantha started her career in marketing with The Green Advantage over four years ago, managing social media, print advertising, graphic design, and event coordination. Services Offered Commercial and Industrial Pest Management - The Green Advantage has been unsurpassed since its conception in commercial and industrial pest management services by effectively targeting, eliminating, and preventing pests. Our goal is to help businesses run smoothly with a safe work environment. We service a variety of commercial accounts, including retail stores, grocery stores, hotels, apartment buildings, daycare centers, retirement homes and community living facilities, to name a few. Residential Pest Management – Living environments require particular care and expertise, and The Green Advantage is, and has been, unparalleled. Our team is excellent at fostering innovation in an ever-changing industry, leading the industry in safety and effectiveness in an often-complicated environment involving chemicals, structures, and proximity of people and pets. Environmental Facility Services – The Green Advantage also provides superior service in related fields, such as industrial weed management, arboriculture, aquatics, soil compositional studies and rectification, vertebrate nuisance animal remediation, as well as snow and ice control. Services SummaryThe Green Advantage has led the field in innovation, safety, and understanding of the complex chemical, biological, and environmental aspects of nature and human interaction. Our customized equipment and methods have had a significant impact on the entire pest control industry.
II. Business Summary
Industry Overview In the United States, the residential and commercial pest control service industry incurs gross annual sales of almost a half billion dollars. Research shows that consumers of pest control and facility services primarily focus on three components: quality, customer service, and safety. As awareness of public health and environmental impact has increased, so have the standards for this industry, with the implementation of Integrated Pest Management. The pest control industry focuses on managing and eliminating unwanted pests, including insects, rodents, and other wildlife that can be harmful to health, property, and the environment. Key aspects include:- Types of Services: Residential, commercial, and agricultural pest control. Services can range from preventive measures to emergency treatments.
- Methods: Pest control techniques include chemical treatments (insecticides and rodenticides), biological control (using natural predators), and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which combines multiple strategies for effectiveness and safety.
- Regulations: The industry is heavily regulated to ensure the safe use of pesticides and to protect public health and the environment. Compliance with federal and state laws is mandatory.
- Market Trends: Increasing awareness of health issues related to pests, and a growing preference for eco-friendly solutions, are driving demand for organic and sustainable pest control options.
- Technology: Innovations such as smart traps, remote monitoring, and data analytics are enhancing pest management efficiency and effectiveness.
- Challenges: The industry faces challenges such as resistance to pesticides, public concerns about chemical use, and the need for ongoing education and training for pest control technicians.
Our long-term goals include servicing all of Northwest Indiana and Easter Illinois, while also branching out further into Illinois and southern Michigan to provide effective pest control. We will continue to advance the field of pest management safely, while decreasing the negative impact on the environment.
III. Business Summary
Target Markets The Green Advantage has the following target markets: Commercial and residential settings who are seeking effective pest control services in Northwest Indiana, and who value our customized application for specific problem areas or prevention. Our target customers value quality, safety, and the environment. Pricing Strategy The Green Advantage utilizes cost-plus strategies. We calculate through proprietary algorithms based on business overhead, warranties, and cost of materials and labor. This strategy allows us to provide clear and comprehensive pricing that the customer can rely on and trust. Most importantly, it allows us to provide the highest quality of service. The strategy begins with determining a metric that can be applied to a service type - linear or square footage, or diameter of trees, for example. The metric is added to a work sheet, in which predetermined formulas calculate the price for a service. This method allows us to quickly, efficiently, and accurately determine pricing, while still allowing for adjustments as variables may change. In addition, we do not offer free estimates. This allows us to keep pricing competitive for our high-quality services. Our target customers value quality of service above all else, it is our determination that delivering any less than this is not worth reputational costs. Marketing Strategy The main focus of the marketing strategy at this point is brand recognition. We strive to use all marketing avenues available for our brand to be seen or heard - social media, direct mail, billboards, yard signs, radio, and local events (Lake County Fair, Crown Point Parades). We do utilize lead generators like Angi’s List, HomeAdvisor, and the services offered by the industry specific software, BRIO. A large part of this strategy depends on drawing potential clients to our website. Due to the complexity of the pest control industry, the website allows potential clients to examine what is available and some of our strategies. We use the “Pest Control Blogs” page of the website to answer questions, describe issues, offer solutions we provide, and present approaches people can take on their own to mitigate situations. The Green Advantage implemented its brand-building strategy in 2021. Since execution, we have seen a drastic increase in website traffic, search engine inquiries, incoming phone calls, and sales. We have been so encouraged by the results of our brand-building strategy, that we have increased the budget for the program by an average of 82.7% year over year ever since. We are currently expanding this approach into several other digital methods like banner ads and expanding our online video library. An additional part of our marketing strategy is community outreach. The Green Advantage continually supports our local schools, donating to sports teams, clubs, and fundraisers. We regularly donate to local events carried out by churches, schools, and clubs. Team members have been guest speakers for local garden clubs and landscape associations. We bring in paid interns to share our success and encourage younger generations. We intend to expand on our outreach programs to include helping with people who are struggling regardless of the reason, be it financial, health, or other circumstances. Although this is included in our brand building strategy, our team does this with passion and love for community.Apple Scab — Pay attention!!!
The evidence is now, the cure is a phone call away!!
What’s the solution??
There are several options to mitigate the damage from scab. Crabapples as ornamentals are irreplaceable and as a fruit tree there’s no way to get an apple without an apple tree. If you are in the planning stages trying to figure out what trees to use, select scab resistant trees if possible. This will not eliminate scab and treatment will certainly be part of the care of your tree, but treatments would be more effective. Even scab resistant trees will get scab, just to a more limited degree. Scab resistant trees naturally have a thicker leaf cuticle (waxy covering on the leaf), this makes it more difficult for infection to occur. If you have a crabapple/apple tree already, there is no reason to cut it down and start over. Often the advice is put out there that good housekeeping is the best way to limit the spread and intensity of scab. Thoroughly cleaning up all leaves and branches, especially of infected trees isn’t a bad idea, but won’t have much effect on scab. The amount of cleanliness necessary to have an impact would be impractical. The best way is using a systematic approach. Starting with a growth regulator, which should be applied as soon as the decision is made that control is desired. The effects of this application will not be noticed until at least the following growing season. It is the delayed reaction to the growth regulator that is the reason for the ASAP approach. Delaying this part of the treatment, as well as not being scheduled for spring fungicide application, which is a timely application, will certainly result in symtoms the following season and continued tree decline. The reason a growth regulator is warranted is mostly due to the secondary effects. The growth regulator is a gibberellin inhibitor. Gibberellin is a plant growth hormone that regulate cell elongation. When used there is a noticeable difference in internodal growth (length of new growth on branches, compared to other years. The primary effects of this application are less pruning and a thicker canopy, this makes for a more aesthetically pleasing tree that is not getting stressed by excessive pruning. The secondary effects are increased chlorophyll production, increase in fine root density (fine roots are responsible for not only water uptake, but micro and macro nutrient absorption), and thicker leaf cuticle development. The last of these is the most desired effect for this particular application. Due to restrictions, we do not use this method for edibles, but we have a very effective protocol for edibles as well. The next step is fungicide applications in spring. Proper scab control applications are time sensitive. They must be applied as the tips of the branches are greening up in the spring (a phenomena we refer to as “green tip”, because arborists are very original), and when the buds open up (once again a very original term, “bud break”). A second application is made two weeks later. Certain products require more applications some every two weeks until the flower petals fall off (petal drop). The number of applications can be restrictive due to the cost of each application. The Green Advantage utilizes top-of-the-line products which allow us to limit this to two applications, thereby keeping the costs more reasonable. While not utilizing a growth regulator for edibles, The Green Advantage instead recommends 3-4 applications of the fungicide.The Green Advantage has performed years and years of research to develop our protocols. Ranging from the frequency of applications to the choice of products. We are a family business so we understand the concerns between chemicals and loved ones. We prioritize safety for people and the environment. The Green Advantage is NWI’s most qualified pest control professions. We are local, We support OUR community, and We are here for YOU!!!!