Pest Control in Tradition

Tradition at a glance

Tradition is a large planned community in western Port St. Lucie, west of I-95 at Gatlin Boulevard. Development began in 2006, with room for more than 18,000 homes plus shops and offices.

What that means for pests

Newer homes are tight and well built, but neighborhoods built on cleared land see pests move in from the surrounding ground, especially fire ants in new lawns and ghost ants in kitchens. A regular exterior treatment plan heads them off; see pest control plans. Homes here often back onto lakes and preserves, and lanai screens, pool cages and outdoor kitchens give spiders and wasps plenty of places to build.

Ponds and preserves

Stormwater lakes and preserve areas between neighborhoods are good for wildlife and views, and also for mosquitoes in the rainy season. Removing standing water in yards helps a lot. Irrigation systems running on schedules can keep beds wet, which draws ants and roaches close to the foundation.

From cattle ranch to community

Before development, the land that became Tradition was a large cattle ranch. Turning open pasture into streets, lawns and homes changes where insects and rodents live, and some of them end up in garages, lanais and kitchens. Newer homes also come with their own builder termite pre-treatments, which have limited lifespans; it's worth asking when yours expires and whether a renewal or bait system makes sense; see termite treatment.