Moldy core in stored apples. Karen Vail Termite season has begun in Tennessee, although it had a late start this year. During the next several weeks, you'll probably spend more time responding to termite calls than to any other household pest problem. To complicate matters, the public has very little understanding of termites, and what should be done if their home is infested. This column will help you answer their questions.
Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year .
They primarily feed on wood, but may also damage paper, books, foam board insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Termites may injure living trees and shrubs, but usually are a secondary invader of woody plants already in a state of decline. Besides the monetary impact, thousands of winged termites emerging inside one's home are an emotionally trying experience. In nature, termites swarm in order to disperse and start new colonies. Triggered by warmer temperatures and rainfall, the winged termites emerge from the colony and fly into the air.