Atkins Inc

4 Essential Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Janitorial Service

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:03:39 GMT

Hiring a new cleaning company can feel like a big decision. If things don’t go well, it can create more work for you instead of less. Maybe the service is inconsistent, or the transition doesn’t go as planned. As a manager, you need a cleaning provider you can rely on—one that keeps your facility clean without constant follow-up.

Before making your choice, it’s important to ask the right questions. These four questions can help you better understand how a cleaning company operates and whether they’re a good fit for your building.

1. How Do You Hire, Train, and Retain Your Employees?

The people doing the cleaning will have the biggest impact on your experience. That’s why it’s important to understand how the company brings on new employees and prepares them for the job.

Ask about their hiring process. Do they screen applicants carefully? Do they run background checks? Then, find out how they train their staff. A good company should have a clear training program that teaches proper cleaning methods and safety practices.

It’s also worth asking about pay. Companies that offer fair wages are more likely to keep good employees long-term. Low turnover usually leads to more consistent service, which is exactly what you want in your facility.

2. What Steps Do You Take to Deliver Consistent Service?

Some cleaning companies only respond when there’s a problem. That kind of approach can lead to uneven results and ongoing frustration.

Instead, look for a company that has a plan in place to maintain quality from the start. Ask how they handle the beginning of a new account. Do they create a detailed plan for your building? How often do they perform inspections? Will supervisors visit your site on a regular basis?

You should also ask if they schedule routine check-ins with clients. Regular communication helps catch small issues before they become bigger problems. A company with a clear system is more likely to provide steady, dependable service.

3. Who Will Be Responsible for Our Account?

Knowing who is in charge of your account is very important. You don’t want to be left wondering who to call when something needs attention.

Ask if the company has local management and who will be overseeing your building. Who performs inspections? Who handles complaints or extra service requests? Who manages the cleaning staff each day?

A company with a strong management structure will have clear answers. This usually means better communication and quicker resolution when issues come up.

4. Can You Share References from Similar Facilities?

Most cleaning companies can provide references, but not all references are equally helpful. You should ask for contacts from businesses that are similar to yours in size and type. For example, cleaning a small office is very different from maintaining a large warehouse or medical facility. A company that performs well in one setting may not have the experience needed for another.

Speaking with similar clients can give you a better understanding of what to expect. If those references report positive, consistent service, it’s a good sign you’re considering the right provider.

Taking the time to ask these questions can help you avoid unnecessary problems and choose a cleaning company that meets your expectations. The right partner will deliver reliable results, reduce complaints, and give you confidence that your facility is being properly cared for every day.

The Top 10 Pests New Homeowners Should Be Aware of & How to Find a Pest Control Company in Jefferson City, MO

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:07:33 GMT

Do You Own a Home in Jefferson City, MO? Keep an Eye Out for These Pests and Call Atkins When You Need a Reliable, Local Pest Control Company

Living in Missouri means enjoying all four seasons, scenic landscapes, and welcoming communities. Unfortunately, it also means dealing with a wide range of pests that can invade your home throughout the year. Some pests are simply a nuisance, while others can cause serious structural damage or pose health risks to your family.

At Atkins Pest Control in Jefferson City, MO, we help homeowners identify, eliminate, and prevent pest problems before they get out of hand. If you want to keep your home protected year-round, here are the top pests Jefferson City, MO homeowners should be aware of and when it’s time to call Atkins for professional help.

1. Termites are the silent destroyers, often going unnoticed in your home until it’s too late

Termites are one of the most damaging pests you can encounter in Missouri. Subterranean termites are especially common in our area, living underground and entering homes through mud tubes to feed on wood.

Termite damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. If you suspect termites, it’s important to act quickly. Calling Atkins Pest Control for an inspection and treatment can stop the damage and protect your home long term.

Signs of termites include:

Mud tubes along your foundation
Hollow-sounding wood
Discarded wings near windows or doors
Warped or sagging floors

2. Carpenter ants bring hidden wood damage to your Jefferson City, MO home

Carpenter ants don’t eat wood, but they tunnel through it to build nests, which can weaken your home over time. They are often found in damp or decaying wood but can spread further if left untreated. If you notice carpenter ants, don’t wait. Contact Atkins Pest Control to locate the nest, eliminate the colony, and prevent further damage.

Watch for:

Large black or reddish ants
Wood shavings near walls or baseboards
Faint rustling sounds inside the walls

3. Rodents like mice & rats can cause all sorts of problems for your home & health

Rodents are a year-round problem in Missouri, especially during cooler months when they seek shelter indoors. Mice and rats can squeeze through tiny openings and quickly multiply, making a small problem a huge one quickly. Additionally, rodents can spread diseases and bring other pests, like fleas, into your home. Calling Atkins Pest Control ensures proper removal, entry point sealing, and prevention strategies to keep them from coming back.

Common signs include:

Droppings in cabinets or along walls
Gnaw marks on wires or wood
Scratching noises in walls or ceilings

4. Keep an eye out for stink bugs in your Jefferson City, MO home in the fall

Stink bugs become especially noticeable in the fall when they try to move indoors to escape cooler temperatures. While they don’t damage your home, they can quickly become overwhelming. If stink bugs are taking over your home, Atkins Pest Control can help with exclusion methods and treatments to keep them out.

Signs of stink bugs:

Clusters on windows or exterior walls
Bugs appearing indoors on warm days
Strong odor when crushed

5. Spiders, including brown recluse, are incredibly dangerous if left untreated in your Jefferson City, MO home

Most spiders are harmless, but Missouri is home to the brown recluse, which can deliver a venomous bite that can be painful and very damaging if left untreated. These spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas like closets, basements, and storage spaces. If you’re seeing spiders regularly, especially in large numbers, call Atkins Pest Control to reduce spider populations and eliminate their hiding spots.

Warning signs:

Webs in corners or storage areas
Brown spiders with a violin-shaped marking
Unexplained bites

6. Wasps, bees, & hornets can be annoying & dangerous. Treat them with help from Atkins in Jefferson City, MO

Stinging insects are common in Missouri, especially in the warmer months. They build nests around homes and can become aggressive if disturbed. Attempting to remove these nests yourself can be dangerous, so call Atkins Pest Control to ensure safe and effective removal so your family can stay protected while you enjoy your yard, patio, or porch.

Look for:

Nests under eaves, decks, or trees
Increased insect activity in one area
Aggressive behavior near your home

7. Cockroaches: The unwanted indoor pests

Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments and are often found in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. They can contaminate food and trigger allergies, making their presence not only gross, but dangerous. If you notice any signs of cockroaches, contact Atkins Pest Control right away. Professional treatment is the most effective way to eliminate infestations and prevent them from spreading.

Signs include:

Droppings that resemble black pepper
Musty odors
Roaches seen at night

8. Fleas & ticks cause serious problems for your family & your pets in Jefferson City, MO

Fleas and ticks are common in yards and can easily be brought indoors by pets. These pests can cause discomfort and transmit diseases. Atkins Pest Control offers treatments to reduce flea and tick populations both inside and outside your home, helping protect your family and pets.

Watch for:

Pets scratching excessively
Small bites on ankles or legs
Ticks found after time outdoors

9. Mosquitoes: More than a nuisance for Jefferson City, MO homeowners

Missouri’s humid climate creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Beyond being annoying, they can carry diseases such as West Nile virus. For long-term relief, call Atkins Pest Control for mosquito control services that make your outdoor spaces more enjoyable.

Reduce mosquito activity by:

Eliminating standing water
Keeping your yard maintained
Using professional treatments

10. Boxelder bugs: seasonal nuisances in Jefferson City, MO

Boxelder bugs often gather on sunny sides of homes and try to move indoors as temperatures drop. While they don’t cause structural damage, they can become a major annoyance. Atkins Pest Control can help guide you in sealing entry points and preventing these pests from invading your home.

Signs of boxelder bugs include:

Large clusters on exterior walls
Bugs entering through small cracks
Stains left behind indoors

Protect Your Home With Atkins Pest Control, Jefferson City, MO’s #1 Pest Control Business

Pest problems rarely go away on their own. In fact, they often get worse over time. The best way to protect your home is through proactive prevention and professional treatment.

At Atkins Pest Control in Jefferson City, MO, we specialize in identifying pest issues, eliminating infestations, and creating customized prevention plans to keep pests from returning. Whether you’re dealing with termites, rodents, insects, or seasonal invaders, our team is here to help.

If you’ve noticed any of these pests or want to prevent future problems, don’t wait. Call Atkins Pest Control today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward a safer, pest-free home.

“Is It Time to Change Cleaning Companies?”

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:27:41 GMT

4 Practical Steps to Help You Choose the Right Commercial Cleaning Service

A dependable commercial cleaning company plays an important role in keeping your workplace running smoothly. When a building is clean and well-maintained, employees can focus on their work and visitors leave with a positive impression. If you are looking for a new janitorial provider, taking a structured approach will make the process easier. The following four steps can help you identify a cleaning company that fits your facility and your expectations.

Step 1 – Focus on Companies with a Local Presence

When possible, start your search with cleaning companies that operate locally or have a regional office nearby. Businesses that are based in your area often provide more consistent service because their managers and staff are close to the facility. If a problem arises, they can usually respond faster than a company that manages accounts from another state.

Local providers also tend to value long-term relationships within the community, which can lead to stronger customer service. However, be careful when researching companies online. Some organizations advertise themselves as local when they are actually marketing groups that subcontract work to other providers. Always verify that the company has a legitimate office in your area before moving forward.

Step 2 – Outline the Cleaning Services You Need

Before speaking with vendors, prepare a short summary of your cleaning expectations. This does not have to be a detailed request for proposal, but having a written outline will help potential providers understand your needs and prepare an accurate quote.

Include basic details such as:

The number of employees who use the facility
The days and times you prefer cleaning to take place (for example, weekday evenings after business hours)
Areas of the building that require regular cleaning
Any special considerations, such as breakrooms, restrooms, or high-traffic areas
Practical information like dumpster locations or entry procedures

Many professional cleaning companies will help you organize this information by providing a scope-of-work template.

Step 3 – Schedule a Walkthrough of Your Facility

Although some companies may offer a quote without visiting your location, inviting them to tour your building usually leads to more accurate proposals. A walkthrough allows the cleaning provider to evaluate factors that affect pricing and staffing.

During the visit, they may review:

Types of flooring throughout the facility
The size and layout of the workspace
Current cleanliness levels
Accessibility of entrances and exits
Working conditions and any security requirements

This meeting also gives you a chance to learn more about the company. Ask questions about their staffing process, training programs, and approach to quality control. Understanding how they operate will help you decide if they are a good fit for your organization.

Step 4 – Meet with Your Top Candidates

After receiving proposals, narrow your list to the companies that seem most promising. Schedule a short meeting—either in person or online—to go over the details of their proposal.

This conversation can help you:

Clarify any terms in the service agreement
Discuss the expected start date
Understand the onboarding process
Confirm how communication and issue resolution will work

A brief review like this ensures that both sides understand the expectations before the partnership begins.

Finding the Right Fit

Choosing a commercial cleaning company does not have to be complicated. By focusing on local providers, clearly outlining your needs, arranging site visits, and reviewing proposals carefully, you can make a confident decision.

The right cleaning partner will help maintain a clean, professional environment while allowing you and your team to stay focused on the work that matters most.

When Is the Best Time to Start Planning Your Spring Landscaping in Columbia, MO?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 21:01:00 GMT

Scheduling Is Key to Achieving a Gorgeous Landscape for Columbia Homes & Businesses. Let the Atkins Experts Be Your Guide!

As winter fades and warmer temperatures begin to return to mid-Missouri, homeowners and business owners alike start thinking about fresh mulch, colorful blooms, and greener lawns. But when is the best time to start planning your spring landscaping in Columbia, MO? The short answer: earlier than you think.

In Columbia and the surrounding mid-MO areas, the most successful spring landscapes are the result of thoughtful planning that begins in late winter, often January or February. By the time March and April arrive, top landscaping companies are already booking out their schedules. If you want a vibrant, healthy outdoor space by late spring, proactive planning is essential. Let Atkins break down the key factors that influence the timing of your spring landscaping project and how to prepare your property for a beautiful season ahead.

Factors that affect the timing of your spring landscape installation in Columbia, MO

The level of maintenance it will require once finished

Before choosing plants, consider how much ongoing maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Low-maintenance landscapes with native plants, ornamental grasses, and perennial beds can be designed early in the year and installed as soon as soil conditions allow. These options are ideal for busy homeowners or commercial property managers who want consistent curb appeal without intensive upkeep.

More intricate designs, such as seasonal flower rotations, specialty shrubs, or high-end landscape lighting, may require additional planning time. The earlier you begin discussions with a professional landscaping team, the more flexibility you’ll have in scheduling installation and ensuring materials are available.

Landscaping style preferences for your mid-MO property

Do you envision a modern, minimalist design? A lush, traditional garden? Or a functional outdoor living space with patios and walkways? Planning these in late winter ensures construction can begin promptly when temperatures consistently rise above freezing.

If your goal is to showcase vibrant spring blooms, timing is even more critical. Many spring annuals and perennials need to be ordered in advance to ensure availability. Early planning allows your landscaping team to source high-quality plant materials tailored to your aesthetic preferences.

The climate of the Columbia, MO area

Columbia’s climate plays a major role in spring landscaping timelines. Located in central Missouri, the region experiences cold winters, fluctuating early spring temperatures, and the potential for late frosts. This means tender annuals and certain plants should not be installed too early. However, planning and preparation, such as bed cleanup, pruning, and mulching, can begin well before the last frost. Monitoring soil temperatures and long-term forecasts ensures your landscape installation aligns with local conditions for optimal plant health.

Evaluate your Columbia landscape before mulching & refreshing the garden

Before adding a fresh layer of mulch or planting new flowers, it’s important to evaluate the current state of your landscape. Winter can leave behind damaged branches, compacted soil, and debris buildup. A professional landscape assessment will identify:

Areas of poor drainage
Dead or diseased plants
Erosion issues
Worn-out edging

Refreshing garden beds isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about setting a healthy foundation for new growth. Removing old mulch, redefining bed lines, and amending soil with nutrients creates the ideal environment for spring plantings. Early spring is also an excellent time to divide certain perennials, relocate shrubs if needed, and redesign areas that didn’t perform well the previous year. By addressing these concerns before peak growing season, your property will look polished and cohesive as temperatures rise.

Make sure your trees are being trimmed & pruned at the right time in central Missouri

Tree and shrub care is one of the most overlooked components of spring landscaping in Columbia, MO. Late winter to early spring, before new growth begins, is often the best time to prune many tree species. Strategic pruning improves air circulation, enhances shape, and reduces the risk of disease. It also promotes stronger, healthier growth throughout the season.

However, not all trees should be pruned at the same time. For example, certain flowering trees may require pruning after they bloom to avoid cutting off next year’s buds. Working with experienced landscaping professionals ensures proper timing and techniques are used. For commercial properties, proactive tree maintenance also enhances safety by reducing the risk of falling limbs during spring storms, a common occurrence in mid-Missouri.

Controlling weeds & pests on your landscape in Columbia, MO

Spring is prime time for weeds, and if you wait until you see them, you may already be behind. Pre-emergent weed control treatments are typically applied in early spring, when soil temperatures consistently reach around 50 to 55 degrees. In Columbia, that often means late February through March, depending on weather patterns.

Applying treatments too late reduces their effectiveness. Planning ensures your lawn and garden beds are protected before invasive weeds like crabgrass begin to sprout. Similarly, early pest control strategies help protect shrubs, turf, and ornamental plants from common regional insects. Addressing these issues proactively minimizes long-term damage and reduces the need for more aggressive treatments later in the season.

Your lawn will need a plan for fertilization, aeration, mowing & more during the spring

A healthy lawn doesn’t happen by accident; it requires a coordinated strategy. In Columbia, MO, cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are common. Spring lawn care should include:

Soil testing to determine nutrient needs
Targeted fertilization
Aeration (if not completed in fall)
Consistent mowing at proper heights
Irrigation system inspections

Fertilization schedules must align with local growing conditions to prevent overfeeding or stress. Aeration improves root development and helps alleviate soil compaction caused by winter freeze-thaw cycles. Developing a comprehensive lawn care plan early in the year ensures each service is scheduled at the optimal time. For businesses, this also maintains a professional appearance that reflects positively on your brand.

Atkins Will Prepare Your Dream Landscape for Spring in Columbia, MO. Learn More About Our Services & Reach Out Today!

The best time to start planning your spring landscaping in Columbia, MO, is before the season begins. Late winter planning gives you access to flexible scheduling, better plant selection, and a clear strategy for lawn care, tree maintenance, and weed control. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance curb appeal or a commercial property manager aiming to impress clients, partnering with a professional landscaping team makes all the difference.

From detailed landscape design and installation to seasonal maintenance and lawn care programs, Atkins provides expert guidance tailored to mid-Missouri’s climate and soil conditions. Don’t wait until your neighbors’ lawns are already green and blooming. Start planning now to ensure your Columbia property is ready to shine this spring. Reach out to the Atkins team today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a stunning, healthy landscape.

Are Cleaning Rags Spreading Germs Around Your Office? What You Need to Know About Cross-Contamination

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:24:05 GMT

When you walk into a freshly cleaned office, you probably assume everything is sanitary. But here’s a disturbing thought: what if the rag used to wipe down your desk was also used to clean a restroom? This kind of cross-contamination can happen more easily than you might expect if your janitorial service doesn’t follow proper cleaning procedures.

Understanding how these mistakes occur—and how to prevent them—can help you make a more informed decision when hiring a commercial cleaning provider.

How Cross-Contamination Happens

Cross-contamination refers to the transfer of bacteria or germs from one area to another through shared cleaning tools or supplies. In many cases, a janitor will move from one space to the next using the same cleaning cart, stocked with rags and chemicals. If those rags aren’t clearly assigned to specific areas, a cloth used on a restroom sink could end up being used on an office keyboard or breakroom counter. It’s not just gross—it’s a serious hygiene issue.

What to Expect from a Reliable Cleaning Partner

To prevent this kind of contamination, a reputable janitorial company should be using a few simple but essential practices. Look for these three indicators that your cleaning provider takes cleanliness seriously:

1. Organized Cleaning Routes and Separated Tools

A professional cleaning crew should follow a clearly planned routine that separates how and when they clean each part of the building. Whether there’s one cleaner or several, restroom areas should be cleaned separately from offices and shared spaces. The best companies also use separate carts or sets of supplies for each area to make sure bacteria from restrooms doesn’t get dragged into workspaces.

2. Specific Rags for Specific Jobs

Rag management is one of the easiest ways to reduce cross-contamination risks. The most effective companies assign different colors or types of cloths for different zones. For example, red might be used for restrooms, blue for office areas, and green for kitchen surfaces. Disposable rags or paper towels may also be used in high-risk areas like restrooms. These systems keep things simple for cleaners and safe for your team.

3. Training That Covers More Than Just the Basics

Even with great systems in place, they don’t mean much unless cleaners are trained to use them correctly. A quality janitorial company will have a clear onboarding process for new employees that explains how to avoid cross-contamination. This should include hands-on training, monitoring during the early days on the job, and regular check-ins from supervisors to ensure procedures are being followed correctly.

Why This Should Matter to You

Many businesses hire cleaning services based on price or convenience, but not all companies offer the same level of professionalism. Because it’s so easy to enter the janitorial industry, some providers operate without proper systems or training. That’s why it’s important to ask about cross-contamination prevention before signing a service agreement.

Wrap-Up

Your office might look clean—but appearances can be deceiving. Without proper practices, germs from restrooms could end up on desks, phones, and shared surfaces. The good news is that this is completely preventable. A trustworthy janitorial company will use separate tools, follow organized cleaning routes, and train their staff thoroughly. Asking the right questions now can protect your workplace from invisible risks and ensure your team stays healthy and safe.

How To Protect Your Lawn & Landscape From Columbia, MO Ice & Snow

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:46:43 GMT

Mid-Missouri’s Winter Weather Can Destroy an Unprepared Landscape. Protect Yourself With Atkins’ Full Service Lawn Care, Landscaping, Pest Control & More

Winter in Columbia, MO can be unpredictable. From early freezes and heavy snowfall to ice storms and rapid thaws, mid-Missouri weather puts serious stress on lawns, landscapes, and outdoor systems. Without proper preparation, cold temperatures and harsh conditions can lead to dead grass, damaged plants, broken irrigation lines, and even pest infestations.

Taking proactive steps before winter arrives and maintaining your property throughout the season can protect your investment and make spring recovery much easier. Learn how to safeguard your lawn and landscape from ice and snow in Columbia, MO before calling the landscapers at Atkins.

Rake the leaves in your Columbia, MO lawn consistently

One of the simplest and most overlooked steps in winter lawn preparation is consistent leaf removal. As trees shed leaves in the fall, it’s easy to let them pile up on the lawn, especially once colder weather arrives. However, leaving thick layers of leaves on your grass can suffocate turf and trap moisture beneath the surface. When snow and ice settle on top, the ground underneath stays damp for extended periods. This creates ideal conditions for snow mold, fungal growth, and lawn diseases that often don’t become visible until spring. By then, the damage may already be widespread.

Raking leaves regularly or having them professionally mulched helps keep your lawn exposed to air and sunlight, even during late fall. This small effort significantly reduces winter lawn stress and encourages healthier regrowth once temperatures rise.

Time your lawn fertilization properly for the winter in Columbia, MO

Winter fertilization is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your lawn during cold weather. Applying the right fertilizer at the right time strengthens root systems, improves nutrient storage, and increases turf resilience against freezing temperatures and snow cover.

In mid-Missouri, timing is critical. Fertilizing too early can trigger unnecessary growth, while fertilizing too late may prevent nutrients from being properly absorbed. A professionally applied winter fertilizer focuses on root development rather than blade growth, helping grass survive winter dormancy and green up faster in spring. Proper fertilization also reduces thinning, patchiness, and weed pressure when warmer weather returns, making it a smart long-term investment in your lawn’s health.

Cut the grass short before heavy snowfall arrives

Before winter officially sets in, adjusting your mowing height is key. Allowing grass to remain too tall heading into winter increases the risk of matting, bending, and disease beneath snow cover. Tall grass can trap moisture and restrict airflow, which leads to mold and weakened turf. On the other hand, cutting grass too short can expose roots to freezing temperatures and stress the lawn.

The goal is a slightly shorter-than-normal cut that promotes durability without damaging the turf. Professional lawn care services ensure mowing is done at the proper height based on grass type and seasonal conditions, giving your lawn the best chance to endure winter weather without unnecessary damage.

Use salt & other de-icers carefully to avoid ruining your Columbia landscape

De-icing products are essential for safety during icy conditions, but they can wreak havoc on nearby grass, soil, and plants if used improperly. Traditional rock salt and chemical de-icers can burn turf, damage root systems, and alter soil composition, leading to long-term landscape problems. Salt runoff often accumulates along sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots, exactly where lawns and plant beds are most visible.

Over time, repeated exposure can cause browning, thinning, and soil compaction that’s difficult to reverse. Using safe de-icers, applying products sparingly, and redirecting runoff away from turf areas can help minimize damage in Columbia, MO. Landscaping professionals can also recommend safer alternatives that balance safety and plant health.

Prepare your trees & shrubs for the winter in mid-Missouri

Trees and shrubs are especially vulnerable during Columbia’s winter storms. Ice accumulation, heavy snow, and strong winds can snap branches, split trunks, and weaken plant structures, particularly if trees haven’t been properly maintained. Preparing these plants before winter includes strategic pruning, removing dead or weak branches, applying mulch to protect roots, and wrapping sensitive shrubs when necessary. These steps help plants withstand winter stress and reduce the likelihood of breakage or long-term damage. Healthy trees and shrubs not only survive winter better but also recover faster in spring, maintaining curb appeal and protecting nearby structures from falling limbs. With an expert like Atkins, your trees and shrubs will always be perfectly trimmed and protected.

Winterize your Columbia, MO lawn’s irrigation system

Frozen irrigation systems are one of the most expensive and common winter landscaping issues in mid-Missouri. When water is left inside irrigation lines, freezing temperatures cause it to expand, leading to cracked pipes, damaged valves, and costly repairs once the system is turned back on. Irrigation winterization involves safely shutting down the system and blowing out all remaining water using specialized equipment. This process ensures pipes, sprinkler heads, and backflow devices remain intact throughout winter. Taking the time to properly winterize your irrigation system in Columbia, MO protects your investment and prevents unexpected breakdowns when spring arrives. For the full overview, get in touch with the Atkins team.

Guard your home or business from pests & rodents in the Columbia, MO winter

As temperatures drop, pests and rodents actively seek warmth, shelter, and food, often finding their way into homes, businesses, and landscaped areas. Your mulch beds, sheds, irrigation boxes, and foundation gaps become prime nesting spots during winter in Columbia, MO. Without preventative pest control, rodents and insects can cause structural damage, contaminate indoor spaces, and create infestations that persist into spring and summer. Winter is actually one of the most important times for pest management, as stopping infestations early prevents larger problems later. Atkins’ ongoing pest control services help keep unwanted guests out during colder months while protecting your property year-round.

Atkins Will Take Care of Your Lawn & Landscape Year-Round. Get in Touch With Our Lawn Care Specialists in Columbia, MO!

Protecting your lawn and landscape from ice and snow doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With comprehensive services ranging from fertilization and lawn care to irrigation, landscaping, and pest control, Atkins is your trusted partner for year-round outdoor maintenance in Columbia, MO. Our team understands the unique challenges of mid-Missouri winters and takes a proactive approach to protecting your property, so you can enjoy peace of mind through every season. Don’t let winter weather undo months of hard work. Contact Atkins today and let our lawn and landscape specialists help your property thrive, no matter what the forecast brings.

3 Janitorial Companies You Don’t Want to Work With

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:16:04 GMT

Hiring a commercial cleaning service can be a big step toward improving the cleanliness and professionalism of your facility. But not all janitorial companies are equipped—or even qualified—to deliver the level of service your business needs.

If you’ve ever dealt with late-night complaints, missed tasks, or unresponsive vendors, you know how quickly a cleaning partnership can go off the rails. To avoid that headache, here are three types of janitorial providers that often lead to poor outcomes.

1. The “This Is Outside Our Comfort Zone” Company

One of the clearest warning signs is a vendor who doesn’t have any current clients with facilities like yours. Cleaning a busy medical office isn’t the same as maintaining a retail store or manufacturing space. Each building type brings its own set of challenges, regulations, and workflows.

Hiring a company without experience in your kind of environment is like hiring a first-time mechanic to work on your fleet. They might figure it out eventually—but do you really want them learning on your time? Stick with companies that already know how to clean spaces like yours.

2. The “Outsiders” Company

Some janitorial companies try to grow by entering new cities or counties—but they often do so without building a real presence in the area. If a company doesn't have local supervisors, field managers, or operations staff nearby, service will almost always suffer.

Local oversight matters. It allows for quick issue resolution, better quality control, and stronger relationships. Without it, you’re likely to experience poor follow-through, delayed responses, and a revolving door of unfamiliar cleaners. Choose a provider that’s genuinely rooted in your market.

3. The “Sure, We’ll Do That Too” Company

There’s a big difference between a company that has a clear service focus and one that simply chases any job that comes along. Some cleaning companies try to be all things to all clients—taking on tiny offices, massive distribution centers, floor stripping jobs, and even post-construction cleaning—all under one roof.

This scattershot approach often means their team is stretched thin, undertrained, or pulled in too many directions. You’ll get better results from a company that specializes in your building type and sticks to what they do best.

Final Thought: Choose for Fit, Not Flash

It’s tempting to go with the lowest bidder or the company with the flashiest proposal—but the real key to success is finding a janitorial contractor that fits. Look for:

Direct experience with your type of facility
A local team that knows the area and can visit regularly
A clear focus on the services you actually need

If you get those things right, you’re far more likely to enjoy consistent, reliable service—and avoid having to start the search all over again.

Has Your Janitorial Company Checked Out? 6 Signs It Might Be Time for a Change: Plus What You Can Do About It

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:35:43 GMT

Not every cleaning company maintains the same level of service they promised on day one. Over time, priorities shift. Maybe your provider underpriced the contract. Maybe new leadership took over. Or maybe, plain and simple, they’re focused on other customers. Whatever the reason, there are usually clear signs that your facility is no longer at the top of their list. Here are six clues your janitorial company might have stopped showing up for you—at least in the ways that count.

1. Employee Gripes Are Becoming the Norm

Cleaning services are supposed to operate in the background—not become a daily topic of conversation. If your team is frequently complaining about things like empty dispensers, neglected areas, or lingering odors, that’s not a minor inconvenience. It’s a sign that cleaning tasks are being skipped or rushed.

2. The Contractor’s Communication Has Slowed—or Stopped

When you first signed the agreement, the vendor was engaged and responsive. They checked in. They sent updates. Now, silence. If you haven’t heard from management in weeks or months, that’s a red flag. Good cleaning companies stay in touch—even when there’s nothing wrong.

3. Issues Aren’t Handled with Urgency

If something goes wrong—say, missed trash or a spill left overnight—you should expect fast follow-up. When phone calls go unanswered or it takes two days to get a response to an email, that’s more than an inconvenience. It may mean your account is no longer getting the attention it deserves.

4. You Keep Seeing New People Cleaning Your Space

Turnover is part of the janitorial world, but constant staff changes can impact performance. If you notice a rotating cast of cleaners with no consistency, it could point to hiring problems or poor supervision. Even worse is when the entire crew changes without a heads-up.

5. They’re Using Equipment That’s Past Its Prime

Look at the condition of the tools being used in your building. Are the vacuums patched up with duct tape? Are carts and supplies disorganized or visibly worn? If your cleaning provider isn’t investing in their equipment, chances are they’re not investing in your facility either.

6. You’re Assigned a New Account Manager—Again

If your main contact keeps changing, it’s difficult to build trust and accountability. High turnover in account management usually signals deeper instability within the company. And when things are chaotic behind the scenes, service quality almost always suffers.

What Should You Do If This Sounds Familiar?

Here’s a practical way to handle a cleaning company that’s losing focus:

1. Schedule a Direct Conversation

Don’t wait. Bring up specific concerns: “We’ve had three different crews in the last month,” or “Your team used to respond within hours, now it takes days.” See if they can explain the shift—and if they have a plan to correct it.

2. Clearly Outline Your Expectations

If the vendor is unaware of what matters most to you, they can’t deliver on it. Revisit your service priorities and ask for a revised action plan. Be fair, but firm, about what needs to improve—and how quickly.

3. Be Ready to Make a Switch

Most commercial cleaning contracts allow you to exit with 30 days’ notice for underperformance. If the problems continue, don’t hesitate to start looking for another provider.

4. Create a Ready-to-Go RFP

Even if you’re not actively replacing your current vendor, start preparing a request for proposal (RFP). That way, if things don’t improve, you won’t be starting from scratch when it’s time to explore new options.

Your cleaning service should help maintain a clean, safe, and professional environment—without requiring constant oversight. If you’re seeing signs they’ve mentally moved on from your account, it might be time for you to do the same.

4 Practical Tips to Keep Your VCT Floors Looking Like New

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:53:18 GMT

“Our floors just don’t look good anymore.”

This is a common complaint we hear when a business contacts us for cleaning help. After untidy bathrooms and messy break rooms, the condition of the floors is often one of the biggest concerns for building managers and owners.

That’s understandable. Whether someone is stepping into a clinic, office, retail space, or warehouse, the look of the floor can leave a lasting impression. Shiny, clean floors say the space is well cared for. Dirty or faded floors can send the opposite message.

In this article, we’ll explain what VCT floors are and how you can keep them looking clean and polished with just a few simple practices.

What Are VCT Floors?

Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT) is made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) chips that are heated and pressed into tiles. Even though these tiles are covered with wax to give them a smooth finish, the material underneath is porous. That means it absorbs dirt and grime easily if it isn’t properly protected. To keep your VCT floors looking good, you need to maintain a solid wax coating and take care of it regularly.

1. Put Down Walk-off Mats

Walk-off mats help trap dirt, grit, and moisture from shoes before it spreads across the floor. This is especially important in high-use areas like main entrances or industrial shop floors. Mats won’t catch everything, but they do reduce the amount of debris getting tracked inside. For the best results, use a mat service that swaps them out regularly, and make sure they’re vacuumed daily to stay effective.

2. Dust Mop Every Day and Damp Mop When Needed

Regular cleaning is the most effective way to protect VCT floors. Start by using a microfiber dust mop every day to pick up loose dirt. Microfiber works well because it grabs dust instead of just moving it around. Follow up with a damp mop and mild cleaner to remove leftover grime. For busy areas, daily damp mopping may be necessary. In less-used areas, you can do it less often.

3. Buff Floors to Bring Back the Shine

Even with good cleaning habits, VCT floors will lose their shine over time due to foot traffic, rolling chairs, and general use. Buffing is a great way to restore that shine. A floor buffer uses a spinning pad to smooth the surface and make it more reflective again. It won’t fix deep damage, but it helps keep the floor looking fresh between waxings.

4. Strip and Re-coat Annually

Eventually, the wax layer protecting your VCT floor will wear out. When that happens, it’s time for a full restoration. This includes stripping off the old wax and applying multiple new layers. How often this needs to happen depends on your traffic levels, but for most businesses, once a year is a good rule of thumb. Modern waxes are more durable than they used to be, but regular re-coating is still necessary for long-term protection.

With a consistent routine and the right care, VCT floors can maintain their appearance for many years. Clean, well-maintained flooring helps create a professional atmosphere—and reflects positively on your business.

Why We Don’t Operate as a Franchise — And Why That Matters

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 14:21:58 GMT

One of the first questions we often get from facility managers is, “Are you part of a franchise?” It’s a question that comes up so frequently, it clearly reflects a pattern—many businesses have had disappointing or inconsistent results when working with franchise-based cleaning services. But why do these issues occur so often? When could a franchise actually be the right fit? And what are the real advantages of hiring a local, independently owned janitorial provider?

The Pitfalls of Franchise Cleaning Services

Franchises can be attractive for new business owners because they offer a ready-made system: branding, training, operational support, and marketing tools. But while that may help someone launch a cleaning business, it doesn’t always lead to reliable service for the customer. Here are a few of the most common concerns with the franchise model:

Big Name, Mixed Results: The national or regional brand name may look impressive, but that doesn’t guarantee quality work from the local franchisee.

Inexperienced Operators: Since franchises are marketed as low-barrier business opportunities, many owners enter the industry with little or no experience.

Inconsistent Service Across Locations: With so many individual owners operating under one name, the standard of service can vary widely.

Subcontracted Labor: It’s common for franchisees to outsource their labor to 1099 contractors, which can reduce accountability and lower service quality.

When a Franchise Might Still Be a Viable Option

While there are downsides, there are a few cases where using a franchise could be the right call:

Smaller Sites: If you manage a very small facility, some franchises are able to offer basic cleaning services at a lower cost than traditional providers.

Scattered Locations: Businesses with multiple sites in different cities may find it easier to coordinate services through a network of franchises operating under the same brand.

Established and Proven Franchisees: Although less common, there are some franchises with strong reputations and high standards—you just have to look harder to find them.

What Sets Independent Janitorial Companies Apart

Choosing a privately owned, local cleaning company comes with distinct advantages—especially when consistency and responsiveness matter:

Built from Experience: Independent companies typically start small and grow through hard work and long-term relationships, which often means they’re more stable and committed.

Better Equipped for Complex Needs: Many independent providers are staffed and resourced to handle large or demanding facilities more effectively than franchisees.

No Franchise Fees = More Value: Without corporate fees or royalties, local companies can often price their services more competitively, particularly for large accounts.

Personalized Service Plans: Independent companies can adjust their approach based on your facility’s specific needs, rather than using a one-size-fits-all model.

Make the Choice That Fits Your Facility

In the end, whether you choose a franchise or an independent cleaning company, the key is finding a team that fits your priorities—whether that’s pricing, flexibility, coverage, or service quality. Understanding how each business model works will help you make a smarter, more confident decision when it comes to keeping your building clean and running smoothly.

Special Cleaning Projects: Carpets, Hard Floors, Windows & More

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:14:08 GMT

Stained carpets? Scuffed up floors? Dirty windows? Hazy VCT?

While routine janitorial services are an everyday need at your facility, there are a host of other needs related to the cleanliness and appearance. For instance, cleaning exterior windows is not something that is typically included in the regular cleaning work. But sometimes those windows, after winter weather, get dirty and smeared. To create that good first impression to customers and employees, those windows need periodic cleaning.

Some services are needed on a routine basis and are best to schedule ahead of time. For example, buffing VCT floors should be done several times throughout the year depending on foot traffic. This helps increase the shine and longevity of the floor finish. It is our recommendation that you include these more frequent projects into the janitorial contract.

However, other services are only performed on an as-needed basis. Electrostatic disinfection is one such example. Perhaps flu season is particularly impacting your building, and you need to take measures to reduce the spread of germs. Electrostatic disinfection may be used to help this seasonal event.

At Atkins Commercial Cleaning, we offer a wide range of specialty services, including the following:

Carpet Cleaning
Strip and Wax VCT Floors
Ceramic Tile and Grout Cleaning
Buffing and Burnishing
Window cleaning
Electrostatic Disinfection
Pressure Washing
Overhead Cleaning
Post Construction Cleaning

If you need a quote for any of these services, we can give a free and timely estimate.

Please contact:

Walt Devore

walt@atkinsinc.com

Is Your Janitorial Provider Falling Behind?

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:01:30 GMT

Understanding What “Clean” Really Means

There are times when it’s clear your cleaning service isn’t meeting expectations—but other

times, the signs are more subtle. This article will help you define clear, practical standards for

cleanliness and give you a plan of action if your janitorial partner isn’t holding up their end of

the deal.

Getting on the Same Page – What Does “Clean” Mean to You?

If you were to ask several people to explain what “clean” looks like, you’d probably get a wide variety of answers. It’s a highly personal concept—much like asking someone to describe “nice” or “professional.” That’s exactly why relying on vague definitions can lead to frustration when managing a commercial cleaning contract.

To avoid this confusion, your best bet is to use a well-defined scope of work. This document should lay out what tasks are required, in which areas (conference rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, etc.), and how often they need to be completed.

Once your scope is finalized, it becomes a shared reference point for both you and your cleaning team. Regular walkthroughs or inspections can then be used to confirm that the outlined tasks are being completed consistently and thoroughly.

Evaluating the Service – What Should You Measure?

Because “clean” means different things to different people, the best way to assess performance is with measurable data. Below are three useful ways to track how well your janitorial service is doing:

1. Complaint Log: One of the simplest signs of trouble is an increase in complaints. Things like “there’s no soap in the restroom” or “my trash hasn’t been taken out in days” are indicators that something’s being missed. Maintain a running list—email works great—to track how often these issues pop up.

2. Service Response Time: Whether it’s a phone call or an email, your provider should

respond to issues quickly. Track how long it takes from the moment you report a problem to the moment it gets fixed. A pattern of slow responses may signal a deeper issue.

3. Inspection Results: Ask your cleaning company to carry out routine quality checks. These inspection reports help you stay informed and give both sides a chance to address small issues before they become bigger problems. These tracking tools are easy to implement and offer a clear way to hold your cleaning team accountable.

When It’s Not Working – What Steps Should You Take?

Even with clear instructions and regular monitoring, there may be times when your cleaning vendor isn’t delivering. When that happens, consider these three steps:

1. Talk It Through: Set up a meeting and come prepared with specific concerns. Questions like, “What’s causing delays in issue resolution?” or “Why are we seeing so many different faces cleaning our space?” can open the door to honest answers and solutions.

2. Clarify Expectations: Go back over your original scope and let your vendor know

exactly where improvements are needed. Set a clear timeline for when and how those

improvements should take place.

3. Explore Other Vendors: If the problems persist, it may be time to move on. Begin

researching other janitorial providers, set up meetings, and gather detailed service

proposals. Be sure to communicate the change internally so your team is informed and prepared.

By taking a structured approach—starting with clear expectations, using measurable

performance checks, and being willing to explore other options—you can make sure your facility stays clean, efficient, and problem-free. Your janitorial service should make your job easier, not

harder.

Understanding Janitorial Proposals: Why Prices Don’t Always Match

Thu, 01 May 2025 17:38:44 GMT

When you're evaluating commercial cleaning bids, one of the first things you'll likely notice is how different the prices can be. Sometimes, the numbers are so far apart it feels like you're comparing apples to oranges. So what's behind these inconsistencies?

While a large part of the pricing difference comes from how each company estimates the time and effort required, there are several other important factors that influence the final number. Let’s take a closer look at the six components that should be included in any serious cleaning proposal:

1. Wages for Cleaning Staff

Labor is the biggest expense in any cleaning contract—often around 60% of the total cost. A cleaning company must figure out:

How many hours their team will need to do the job, and
What the going hourly rate is for cleaners in your area.

The more details you give upfront—like square footage, traffic levels, or specialized tasks—the more accurate their time estimate will be.

What to Watch For: Vendors who ask thoughtful questions and measure the space themselves usually provide more reliable estimates. Regional firms, in particular, tend to know local wage trends better than national chains.

2. Taxes and Employee Benefits

Wages aren’t the only labor-related expense. A responsible vendor will also include payroll taxes, insurance, vacation time, background checks, uniforms, and other benefit-related costs.

What to Watch For: Companies that invest in their employees—by offering benefits, for example—often have lower turnover, which means more consistency and reliability for you.

3. Cleaning and Restroom Supplies

Proposals should cover two types of supplies:

Cleaning products like chemicals, cloths, and mop heads, and
Consumables such as toilet paper, hand towels, and soap.

Typically, cleaning supplies are bundled into the base rate.

What to Watch For: Ask for unit pricing on consumables. Some vendors can get excellent deals from suppliers and may even handle inventory management so you're never short on essentials.

4. Equipment Costs

Different facilities require different tools—floor machines, vacuums, buffers, etc. Reputable vendors should budget for this equipment, including depreciation over time.

What to Watch For: Look for companies using up-to-date, well-maintained equipment. Good tools make the job faster, safer, and more efficient.

5. Overhead Expenses

Overhead includes the behind-the-scenes costs that keep the business running: insurance, admin staff, hiring processes, management oversight, and more. These costs should be built into each quote as a consistent percentage.

What to Watch For: Local cleaning companies usually run leaner operations and can offer lower overhead costs than big national providers.

6. Profit Margin

Every business needs to make a profit to stay healthy. While it may not be itemized, the vendor’s profit is part of the total cost.

What to Watch For: A company that underbids just to win the job may not be sustainable long term. Reliable vendors charge enough to support quality work and stable operations—this benefits you in the long run.

The Bottom Line

If a proposal you receive doesn’t clearly address these six areas, that’s a red flag. Be proactive—ask questions and request clarification. A quote that seems like a great deal on the surface might be missing key pieces that could cost you later in service problems, staff issues, or unexpected fees.

Taking the time to dig into the details now can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Choose vendors who are transparent, experienced, and committed to delivering consistent, quality service.

2 Cost-Saving Tips for Managing Your Janitorial Program

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 18:41:43 GMT

If you're in charge of janitorial services at your workplace, there's a good chance you're also overseeing a variety of other responsibilities. While every company’s setup is different, it’s common for managers like you to be under ongoing pressure to reduce spending. Tight budgets are a reality, and every dollar counts.

That said, cutting costs in janitorial services can be tricky. Reduce too much, and cleanliness might suffer. The real challenge is finding ways to lower expenses without compromising the quality of the service. As the old saying goes in construction: “You can get it cheap, fast, or good—pick any two.” That same idea often applies to commercial cleaning.

Still, there are smart ways to cut back on janitorial spending while keeping standards high. Here are two practical ideas.

1. Rework Your Cleaning Schedule

Labor is by far the largest piece of most janitorial budgets—usually around 60%. If you’re aiming to save, reducing labor hours is the place to start. One of the best ways to do that is by adjusting how often and how thoroughly different areas are cleaned.

In many buildings, cleaning crews follow a set routine that was decided long ago and hasn’t been reviewed in years. For example, low-traffic offices or storage areas might be cleaned daily when a once- or twice-weekly schedule would be perfectly fine.

Take time to review your building’s usage patterns. What spaces are used the most? Which areas need daily upkeep, and which could get by with less frequent attention? A trusted janitorial provider can walk the building with you and recommend changes that make cleaning more efficient—saving time and money without lowering cleanliness.

2. Schedule Extra Services Separately

Another area where businesses often overspend is in "project work"—services like window washing, floor waxing, or carpet deep cleans. These tasks are important, but many cleaning contracts include them on a recurring basis, baked into the monthly rate. The problem? These services may not be needed that often, and sometimes they’re skipped entirely—but you’re still paying for them.

Instead of bundling project work into your regular invoice, consider paying for it as needed. Set clear prices for each service ahead of time, then schedule them only when they’re truly necessary. This approach gives you flexibility and can significantly cut annual costs, especially if usage is lower than expected.

In Summary

By updating your cleaning schedule to match actual needs and switching to as-needed billing for special services, you can make your janitorial program more cost-effective without cutting corners. A good cleaning partner will help you strike the right balance between budget and quality—and that’s a win for everyone involved.

“How Soon Can You Start?” The Reality of Janitorial Service Transitions & How to Avoid Supply Shortages

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 17:20:14 GMT

When businesses reach out to us, it’s usually because their current cleaning company isn’t

meeting expectations. After we walk them through how we can provide a better service, they

typically ask two key questions:

1. “What’s the price?”

2. “How quickly can you begin?”

This article will focus on the second question—when services can realistically start.

“Help! My Cleaning Company Just Walked Out!”

Here’s a scenario that happens more often than you’d think:

Facility Manager: “Bob, we’ve given your team plenty of chances to improve, but we’re still not

seeing the results we need. We’re making a switch. Per our contract, this is your 30-day

termination notice.”

Bob: “Alright, I’ll let my team know. I just wish we had more notice.”

One week later, the Facility Manager gets a voicemail from Bob:

Bob: “Hey, after I told the team they’d be out of work in 30 days, they all quit—fast. I went

ahead and cleared out my stuff over the weekend. If you need anything, let me know. Hopefully, we can work together again someday!”

Now, in a panic, the Facility Manager calls the new janitorial provider:

Facility Manager: “ACME just told me they’re not coming back, and my plant manager just

informed me there’s no toilet paper in the main restroom. Can you get someone here

immediately?”

Understanding the Janitorial Startup Process

Reality #1 – Hiring the Right Staff Takes Time

There’s a common belief that cleaning companies function like staffing agencies, with workers

ready to go at a moment’s notice. The truth is, we carefully assemble teams for each client,

considering the right mix of full-time and part-time employees as well as balancing male and

female staff as needed. Finding the right people is a process, not an instant fix.

Reality #2 – A Structured Plan is Crucial for Quality Cleaning

While janitorial work isn’t overly complicated, it does require a detailed approach to ensure

consistency and efficiency. A solid cleaning plan includes assigned duties, a structured

workflow, and checklists to guarantee all tasks are completed thoroughly and correctly.

Without this, results can be inconsistent.

Reality #3 – Proper Training is Non-Negotiable

Many assume that cleaning is simple, but doing it effectively requires proper training. Every

team member must learn how to use cleaning equipment correctly, apply the right products to

different surfaces, and follow best practices for sweeping, mopping, and sanitizing. Training

also ensures safety for both employees and your facility.

So, What’s the Timeline?

Generally, a new cleaning contract takes three to four weeks to begin. This allows us time to

recruit and onboard the right people, provide thorough training, and establish an effective

cleaning plan tailored to your facility.

What Can You Do in the Meantime?

If your previous cleaning company has already abandoned the job or isn’t fulfilling their

obligations, here’s how to bridge the gap until your new janitorial team is in place:

1. Remind your current provider of their commitment. They are contractually obligated to

continue services for the full 30-day notice period. Hold them accountable.

2. Ask the new provider about short-term solutions. Some companies have “floater”

employees who can cover essential tasks during the transition.

3. Look into temporary staffing options. A staffing agency may be able to provide

temporary workers to handle urgent needs like restocking restroom supplies, emptying

trash, and basic cleaning tasks until the new team is ready.

By preparing in advance and using these strategies, you can minimize disruptions and ensure

your facility stays clean and fully stocked throughout the transition.

How to Estimate the Cost of Cleaning Your Facility

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 22:43:33 GMT

How much does it cost to keep a building clean and well-maintained?

This question comes up time and time again when we present janitorial service proposals. Clients are often eager to skip ahead and see the pricing details. For facility managers, understanding what drives those costs is essential. By identifying the key factors that influence cleaning expenses, you can make an informed decision when selecting a service provider. Below are the main considerations that affect the cost of cleaning:

The number of people using the building
The type of business
The building’s design and features
The scope and frequency of services
Cleanliness standards

It’s important to start with the basics: labor is the single biggest expense in any cleaning program. The number of labor hours needed to clean your facility is directly influenced by each of these factors.

1. Number of People Using the Building

The number of people in your facility has the largest impact on cleaning costs. More people create more messes, such as trash, dirt, and restroom supply usage. Whether it’s employees, visitors, patients, or students, higher foot traffic means more cleaning is required. For example, a 30,000 sq. ft. office with 400 employees working in multiple shifts will require more frequent cleaning than a 300,000 sq. ft. warehouse with only 60 workers. The more people in your space, the greater the demand for janitorial services.

2. The Nature of Your Business

The type of work being done in your building is another major factor. Some industries generate more cleaning challenges than others. For instance, manufacturing facilities often produce large amounts of dust, grime, and debris that require specialized cleaning techniques. Schools, medical offices, and public venues typically need additional disinfection of surfaces to meet hygiene standards. Your business activities will dictate the level of cleaning effort needed.

3. Building Design and Features

The layout and characteristics of your building also impact cleaning requirements. Factors such as the total cleanable area, the number of restrooms, types of flooring, building density, and the age of the facility all play a role. For example, an older building with hard floors and tightly packed offices will take longer to clean than a modern facility with open spaces and carpeted floors. These variables determine the equipment, supplies, and time required to do the job properly.

4. Scope and Frequency of Services

Most janitorial contracts cover basic services like trash removal, surface cleaning, floor care (mopping and vacuuming), and restroom maintenance. However, the frequency of these services can vary depending on your needs. For instance, healthcare facilities often require daily floor mopping to maintain high hygiene standards, while an office may only need this done a few times per week. The more frequent the services, the higher the labor costs.

5. Cleanliness Expectations

Cleanliness is subjective, and different clients have different standards. What one facility manager considers spotless might not meet another’s expectations. These differences can significantly impact the time and effort required for cleaning. It’s crucial to align your expectations with your cleaning team. For example, if you require your facility to be dust-free, including hard-to-reach areas like door frames and vents, additional labor hours will be necessary to meet those expectations. Clearly defining what "clean" means for your facility can help ensure your janitorial provider delivers the desired results.

What Will Cleaning Your Facility Cost?

The final cost of cleaning your building depends on multiple factors. Labor makes up the bulk of the expense, and the amount of labor required will vary based on the number of people using the space, the type of business, the building’s layout, the frequency of services, and the cleanliness standards you set.

If you’re ready to discuss your facility’s cleaning needs and would like a tailored estimate, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide a customized plan to keep your building clean and welcoming!

Four Generations Strong

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:51:10 GMT

Here since the 1800's.

I started my journey with Atkins in June of 2000 after finishing up the spring semester at MU. I had called on my Grandad’s cousin Vern to see what all they did at Atkins as I knew he had been running their irrigation division for some time. I interviewed with my good buddy Dave Jobe and was fortunately hired right away to work in the Atkins Turf & Tree Department. It wasn’t necessarily what I had planned to do after college, but I soon realized that I loved the work and the atmosphere that Atkins provided me. Leadership and support from the Atkins Family, the Atkins Inc. team and a whole bunch of loyal Atkins customers made it easy and rewarding for me to come in every day to do the work that needed done in an attempt to try to exceed our customers’ expectations. That amounts to 23 years of service with Atkins for me, but Atkins has been around a lot longer than that!

The Atkins family has been in Boone County since the mid-1800’s, where they operated a small farm. T.E. Atkins Sr. mixed minerals and dewormer for livestock on the farm and then began selling them to other local farmers under the company name Atkins Manufacturing Company. In 1925, T.E. Atkins Jr., or “Country” as he was known, left the farm to go to high school. T.E. Sr and wife Elsie soon followed and relocated the family in Columbia. They changed the name to Atkins Chemical and as Columbia grew and opportunities arose, Atkins grew too. They expanded into cleaning chemicals and janitorial supplies.

In 1951, T.E. Atkins Sr. transferred ownership to his daughter and son-in-law and operated as Atkins-McCauley Chemical. T.E. “Tom” Atkins III joined the family business and ran their sales department. He also worked to develop new business lines, such as Janitorial equipment and lawn care supplies. Later on in 1970 Tom bought out the McCauleys (aunt and uncle) and continued growing the business and adding to their list of services and products offered. Pest Control, Irrigation, Building Maintenance, Janitorial Services and Grounds Maintenance were all added in the 1970’s. In 1975, Tom purchased the Hamilton-Brown Shoe Factory, the first industrial building built in Columbia (1906-07), where the Atkins company would later move into and still utilize today.

In 1985, Scott Atkins, fourth generation of the Atkins family, joined the company. Scott’s passion for real estate development and restoration was a great fit with the building of Atkins Investments. The company ventures into historic preservation and purchases several historically significant buildings in downtown Columbia area. After a lot of 12 and 14 hour days for Scott, they completed the restoration of the Strollway Center (1911 Virginia Building) in 2002 and renamed it the Atkins City Centre. 2003 and 2005, they renovate the Matthews and Miller buildings. In 2007 they finish renovations of the Hamilton-Brown Shoe Factory then in 2013 they complete the Parker Building renovations. Scott says that it is very satisfying to see these buildings and the area are all thriving now, when they were once struggling.

“Paying it forward” is what it’s all about for the Atkins Family. From serving as a Columbia College Board of Trustees, and as a Curator to the University of Missouri, offering donations to Columbia College (Linda Atkins is a 1954 graduate of Christian College, which was renamed Columbia College in 1970) and dedication of the Atkins-Hollman Student Commons, development of the T.E. Atkins MU Wellness Program at the University of Missouri, donation of 81 acres to the City of Columbia and Boone County to be used for recreation facilities (later named by city and county officials Thomas E. “Country” Atkins Jr. Memorial Park), and a host of other charities and scholarship funds. The list keeps growing.

Atkins is not the oldest business in Missouri, but they did start their business in Columbia, when Columbia had less than 15,000 people and has withstood the test of time. 2 World Wars, economic ups and downs, growing pains, technology changes, competition from all directions, moving operations and offices, COVID and countless other challenges that have taken their toll on many other businesses did not stop the Atkins family from forging ahead. Currently Atkins employs over 200 in Columbia plus another 200 in other areas of Missouri and Arkansas. We’re always looking to add to our team too. A desire to serve clients and community are a must.

When you have a property need, whether inside or out, the team at Atkins can help you with that!

Leave Pest Control to the Professionals at Atkins, Inc: The Dangers of DIY Pest Control

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:53:41 GMT

Why You Should Call a Professional Pest Exterminator to Your Mid-Missouri Home

Some DIY projects can be great for learning new skills and saving money, if you’re crocheting a blanket. Pest control is not one of them. The truth is, doing your own pest control can make things worse instead of helping prevent pests from entering your home in Columbia, Mo. DIY Pest Control is ineffective and often is more dangerous to your home’s pest security . Between the handling of chemicals and the experience it takes to perform, there is no debate that you’re better off leaving pest control to a local exterminator like Atkins.

Pest control requires an experienced professional, not a quick fix

Learning the ways of pest control is a lot more than spraying bugs and hoping they don’t come back. Entry-level exterminators have to do pest control training for at least three months, and even longer to be credible in the business. To earn Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) credentials like our pest control team here at Atkins, a technician is required to have at least 6 years of firsthand pest control experience. Not to mention, pest control experts are more proactive than the use of DIY pest control. Rather than making your own pesticides every time you think you see a termite, wouldn’t it just be better to prevent them in the first place and not have to worry about it?

DIY Pest Control Can Harm Mid-Missouri’s Environment

Personal safety: People may consider making their own pesticide because they believe it is safer than calling a pest control service. However, this is far from the truth. DIY pesticides still have chemicals in them that could be a hazard to you and your family. Additionally, without the proper knowledge on how to handle these pest killers, you could find yourself ingesting these dangerous chemicals by accident. You don’t want a poison incident on top of your pest problem. With a pest control service like Atkins, professionals wear protective clothing on the face and body and make sure it doesn’t spread to the people living in the house.

Outdoors: Applying homemade pesticide is harmful not only to you and your family but to the living things around you as well. Careless DIY pest control is damaging to the plants and animals (including your pets) that surround your mid-Missouri home outside. It could also eliminate insects like butterflies and bees that spread pollen to the local plant life. The last and most vital outdoor factor is water contamination. The risk of getting pesticide into the water supply is too great and poses a threat to all. Pest control specialists know best how to prevent these kinds of disasters from happening in your mid-Missouri neighborhood. Atkins offers Border Patrol Applications that prevent pests from entering your area without putting the rest of the environment in danger.

DIY pest control is costly in more ways than one

Money: Despite the claim that making pesticides at home is less expensive than calling a pest control service, it is more often a waste of money. The products you buy may be ultimately ineffective depending on your pest problem, and after a certain point it’s better to call for professional treatment. Atkins offers free consultations to our valued customers.

Chemical Exposure: Insecticides are going to have chemicals in them whether you buy it at the store or call a professional. You’re better off letting someone who is experienced with these chemicals take care of you, your family and your home. Atkins also practices a variety of extermination methods before resorting to pesticides. Through our dedication to Integrated Pest Management , your mid-Missouri home will be much safer from toxins and dangerous chemicals.

Improper Pest Control: Without the thorough procedures of pest control performed by a local exterminator, it’s not guaranteed that a DIY Pest Control will work. You could be underestimating the problem or directing pesticide at the wrong places.This only allows more time for something like a termite colony to grow and wreak even more havoc on the property of your home in mid-Missouri. Get it right the first time with Atkins, and this won’t be a problem.

Leave the Pest Control to Atkins for Safe Treatment That Works

There’s no need to go out and buy a bunch of chemicals for a mere pest problem in your mid-Missouri home. Atkins has a tried and true practice of pest control sparing the use of excessive pesticides. Whether you need emergency pest control or you want to invest in a long-term plan with us, our Quality Pro Trained exterminators promise to get rid of pests and make sure they’re gone for good. Schedule a chat with us today and your pest problem will be gone before you know it!

Ask Atkins: Top 3 Questions We Get Asked About Pest Control in Mid-Missouri

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 20:21:09 GMT

Frequently Asked Questions from Customers About Atkins Pest Control

When you’ve been in the pest control business as long as Atkins, you get asked a lot of questions every day. Pest control is a highly involved and complicated process, so it’s expected to ask these questions when you’re not a professional. From Columbia, Mo to Chillicothe, Mo, we have truly seen it all. As mid-Missouri’s top quality pest control service, Atkins is more than happy to answer all of your questions and concerns. For our customers, we want nothing more than a clean home and full trust in our services.

Why Atkins Over Other Pest Control Companies in Mid-Missouri?

Atkins is more than just a pest control service in the mid-Missouri area. The Atkins name goes all the way back to 1908 on a barn in Boone County, Mo, and today we employ almost 500 professionals in the area to our business. Our associations with different Missouri chambers of commerce and our volunteer work to wellness programs are just a few of the many ways we stay involved with the community and its well-being.

Unlike a corporation such as Orkin, we also offer lawn service, landscaping, and cleaning services that complement our pest control service. Need an invisible fence to keep your outdoor pets safe? Yep, we offer that too! Every department of our Atkins team is led by qualified, friendly professionals who know their way around the business. Here at Atkins, we go the extra mile to make your mid-Missouri home clean and polished both inside and out. If you arrange a free consultation with us, we promise to take all your pest control and other residential needs into thoughtful consideration.

How Safe Is Atkins’ Termite Control or Bed Bug Treatment in a Mid-Missouri Home?

Atkins’ pest control uses only the safest extermination practices with a team of professionals fully licensed by the state of Missouri. Every one of our skillful employees has at least six years of experience, as required to earn credentials with the Entomological Society of America. We commit to your household’s well-being by adhering to Integrated Pest Management as well. This is a strategy that combines elements of habitat manipulation, biological control and more. Pesticides are used by Atkins sparingly in order to be safe and environmentally responsible.

Termite Control: Termites are a swift and destructive species. They chew through wood and can cause thousands of dollars worth of property damage to your home. If termites are found in your home, Atkins offers a solution in one of two ways. First, we can use a chemical treatment that “worker” termites take back to the colony and wipe them out from the inside. Secondly, we can use a baiting system and insert products where termites were found.

Bed Bug Treatment: Bed bugs travel from place to place and invade areas where they may find human hosts. Unlike other one-and-done pest control services, Atkins treats your mid-Missouri home of bed bugs in three steps. First, we apply a heat treatment to the bed bugs. Then, we heat the bugs in a closed-off room up to 135 degrees. Following the heat treatments, a spray is applied to prevent bed bugs from ever returning to your area. We then follow up within two weeks to ensure your home is pest-free!

What pest control services does Atkins offer?

At Atkins, we strive to be your one-stop-shot for pest control. In addition to termite and bed bug extermination, Atkins offers top-quality rodent control in the mid-Missouri area. Rodents are not only annoying to have in the house, but they can spread nasty diseases and cause damage to your property. Rodents chew through wires and scratch the walls of your beloved home. We have humane trapping methods for multiple rodents: mice, squirrels, raccoons, and more! Atkins maps out wildlife pest control for the long term, so that the problem never arises again. When a rat exterminator from our certified team drops by, there’s no doubt that your house will be free of rodents.

Learn more about Atkins and fix your pest problem today!

If your mid-Missouri home is in need of emergency pest control, there is no better time to call Atkins than right now! Our main locations in Missouri are Columbia, Jefferson City, Springfield, and Chillicothe, but we offer flexible service that can extend past this list. You can choose from several of our pest control plans for Atkins treatment year-round. Whether it’s mosquito control in the summer or fleas in the winter, we’ve got the perfect solution for your situation. Once you’ve worked with us, you’ll have a loyal pest control team you can truly depend on.

Spring is Here - Be Well!

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 01:44:36 GMT

When I first started with Atkins, I used to try to figure out how many steps I took or how many miles I walked pushing a fertilizer spreader or dragging a hose around to spot treat for weeds. Seems like on average, I walked around 7 to 8 miles most every day. Talk about good exercise! Nowadays, we have better equipment that helps save your legs and apps on our phones or watch to keep track of our steps for us. Gotta love technology!

As spring finally rolls around, you may be getting geared up for the turf and tree growing season. Some of us may have already started! So, do you DIY or do you hire it out?

There’s a lot of benefit to working on your lawn and landscape yourself. You’ll keep your hands and mind busy. Your interaction with nature can reduce stress, anxiety, blood pressure and can even reduce your level of “anger” if ever you need. The exercise itself can do you some good. You can increase your strength, flexibility, coordination and endurance. Setting aside some time each week for this sort of work can go a long way.

Don’t forget to stretch, and if you’re a bit out of shape, start off slow! You might even check in with your Doc beforehand to make sure you’re ok to do this sort of work. Know your limitations and don’t risk it. You can build strength and burn calories with activities such as pulling weeds, raking mulch, push mowing, seeding your bare spots, and digging holes for any new plants or flowers this spring. In the end, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and build up your self-esteem.

Not everyone has time or energy to devote to maintaining their lawn and landscape, so hire a professional. Mowing, fertilizing, weed control, mulching, pruning, leaf removal, pulling weeds, landscaping, lighting, irrigating, etc. We do it all and we have all the equipment at the ready!

Other reasons to hire some lawn and landscape help are:

COST . Often times, by the time you buy materials, tools or equipment to do the job, you could have had someone else do it.
EXPERIENCE . Not all, but most professional lawn care and landscape maintenance professionals bring a tremendous amount of experience and expertise to the job. They can quickly assess the situation and come up with a plan to fix whatever issue you’re having or the task that you’re trying to accomplish.
RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE . Landscapers know what plants to use where and when. They know what issues we deal with in mid-MO and what plants are better suited for your lawn and landscape, which can save you time, money and a headache down the road.
RIGHT TIMING AND MATERIALS . There’s more to managing insects, disease and weeds in your lawn and landscape. Again, a professional will be able to identify the issue and come up with a variety of options to solve the issue. Applying the wrong material or applying at the wrong time or on the wrong thing, will cost you
GOOD STEWARDS . Professional grounds crews know what it takes to have a positive impact on the environment to ensure a healthy future for our children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and so-on

No matter what you decide - DIY or hire out - we hope you have a safe and healthy spring!

Winterizing Your Mid-Missouri Home for Pests

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 17:13:16 GMT

Winterizing Your Mid-Missouri Home for Pests

If you’re cold, so are all the little six-legged troublemakers outside. Winter bugs are a huge problem around this time in mid-Missouri. From flies in the house to a whole swarm of termites, these pests mean business. Have no fear! There are several effective methods of preventing pests this time of year. With the help of a trusted pest exterminator like Atkins, your home will be free of infestations this winter.

Proper Pest Control from Atkins Will Prevent Pests in the Winter and Spring

Atkins knows first-hand that taking preventative measures in the winter time will reap benefits well past the spring. Several of the species that bother mid-Missouri houses during winter also are prevalent in the spring. A few examples of these pests include rodents, ants, fleas, and worst of all, termites. In other words, take care of your home now and you’ll be taken care of later as well. In the case that pests are still coming into your home, you can always count on Atkins to swoop in with safe, professional extermination.

Some General Ways to Keep Winter Bugs Out of Your Mid-Missouri Home

As tedious as it may sound, keeping the indoors and outdoors of your house clean will make a world of difference in preventing pests. Winter bugs are simple creatures, and often there are simple solutions to keeping them out. Below are some helpful housekeeping tips from Atkins.

Sealing Openings: One of the first precautions you should take is sealing the openings around your house. Not only will this help insulate your mid-Missouri home from the harsh cold outside, but it will also keep winter pests from getting in so easily. This means sealing up cracks under doors, windows, and any other tight spaces within your household.

Get Rid of Dampness: A lot of insects like carpenter ants are highly attracted to moisture and rotting things. Look for damp areas in your basements, bathrooms, and attics and dry them out quickly. A winter pest can’t survive long without moisture.

Clean the Yard and Gutters Outside: Picking up the trash and leaves outside gives winter pests less hiding spots during the winter months. The gutters are also a safe haven for creepy crawlies, so clean those out as well. If you’re not a big fan of lawn work, Atkins will happily visit your home and perform the best pest control and lawn service around mid-Missouri!

Keep the Interior Clean: Many pests enter your household in search of both warmth and food. Because of this, it is really important to keep the kitchen clean without leaving any food out. Pretty straightforward, but it will lower your chances of enduring a pest problem this winter.

How to Tell if I Have Termites or Bed Bugs in My Mid-Missouri Home

The most common pests that Atkins deals with in the winter are termites and bed bugs. These insects can be difficult to get rid of, so it’s better to detect them sooner rather than later. Check out this guide to spotting both in your mid-Missouri home.

Termites: These winter pests chew through wood and cause a plethora of property damage every year. Termites multiply quickly, so they need to be detected as soon as possible. Look for blistering in your wood floors, mud tubes in the crevices of your home, droppings with a sawdust-like appearance, and any brown-headed insects with large mandibles.

Bed Bugs: As the name suggests, these pesky, flat insects will hide themselves in the nooks and crannies of the beds in your home. Bed bugs will often leave reddish stains and black feces on your sheets. When finding bed bugs, look in the folds and seams in your mattress and wash your sheets in hot water. At this point, it’s best to call a pest control service and let them handle things professionally.

Solutions for Pests and Your Lawn in the Spring

When spring rolls around in mid-Missouri this year, you’ll be prepared since you took the right precautions in the winter. Some more pests to look out for in the spring include wasps, flies, and venomous spiders. Year-round pest control is a must, and Atkins is here to make sure you have that. Just like the winter time, caring for your yard and interior are great preventative measures against pests.

Never Be Hesitant to Call for Pest Control Service

If, for any reason, these tips still aren’t helping you with your pest problem, please call Atkins in Columbia, Mo. We’ll be there right away, no matter how big or small your dilemma may seem. We offer a wide range of services from lawn care to cleaning to pest control, and we’ll do what’s best for your mid-Missouri household. Contact us today for a free consultation!

What Happens To Pests During Mid-Missouri's Winters?

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 16:42:59 GMT

Missouri Winters Can Be Difficult for People & Pests. Learn Where You Can Expect to See Pests This Winter.

As someone who lives in Mid-Missouri, you don't need any reminding how bitterly cold it can get in the winter. Temperatures can drop well below freezing. Ice and snow can put both our bodies and homes under a lot of stress. They can also impact the lives of Missouri insects. Atkins is helping mid-Missouri residents protect their homes from winter pests.

Where Do Pests Go In the Winter?

Pests that successfully survive cold temperatures generally take cover wherever they can to steer clear of the elements. Insects may take up residence under rocks, logs, leaves, or hide in holes inside trees. Others go looking for warmer spots, such as your home or business. You might love relaxing in a warm home but you certainly don’t want pests to join you.

How Does Cold Weather in Missouri Affect Insects?

What happens with bugs inside your home in the winter?

If you find insects in your home, there’s a good chance they’ve multiplied. If you are concerned about a potential pest problem, you can search a few different places in your home where bugs are most likely to hide. Bugs will make their way to the warmest areas of your home and will also seek out food sources. Their favorite spot? Your kitchen. Be sure to wipe down your counters and clean your floors regularly. Store food in air-tight containers to keep pests out.

Do Insects Die in the Winter or Hibernate?

Insects are cold-blooded. Because they can’t generate their own heat, they tend to congregate together or seek out warm areas. However, not all insects seek out the same methods for staying warm and fed. Learn more about the winter habits of Missouri pests below.

What happens to cockroaches in the winter?

Cockroaches tend to remain outside in logs or trees during the winter but will come inside your house if they are having difficulty finding food or keeping warm. Taking precautions to keep food sources sealed, your home clean, and sealing up entry pathways can keep them from overtaking your home.

What becomes of ants during the winter?

Ants are well-skilled at weathering the winter, thanks largely to their biology. Ants have an internal mechanism that causes their bodies to significantly drop in temperature as the outdoor temperatures fall. They simultaneously start to conserve energy by operating slower than usual during winter. Ants rely on stored carbohydrates, protein, and fats for nutrition during the coldest months of the year.

Do bed bugs become dormant in the winter?

Bed bugs are less active in the winter, much like other insects are. During this time of the year, this inactivity means that they tend to breed and feed less often, resulting in you noticing them a lot less than you typically would. They don’t necessarily stop biting, so remain vigilant if you notice off bit marks or small stains on your sheets.

Do termites survive the winter?

Termites are a bit different from other pests in that they don't generally take breaks, no matter how cold it gets. Termites tend to change their behaviors during the winter, though. The cooler the temperatures get, the deeper subterranean termite colonies tend to dig down into the ground to pursue warmth. If they don't time their digging just right, then termites have the potential of dying at temperatures of 25 degrees Fahrenheit or less. This is why termites love warm homes where they don’t have to work so hard for a food source.

How To Tell If I Have Termites?

Some of the telltale signs that you may have a termite infestation include:

The appearance of small pinpoint holes in your drywall
Floorboards squeak or start buckling
You notice that wood surfaces sound hollow when you knock on them
Drywall drops or discolors
Paint on the walls peels or takes on an appearance of water damages
Tiles loosen

If you notice any sign of termites, call Atkins right away. Termites can cause thousands of dollars of damage in your Missouri home and your homeowner's insurance may not cover the cost.

Don’t Forget About Pest Control During Harsh Mid-Missouri Winters

Homeowners often make the mistake of assuming that the cold will kill any insects that are lingering in their homes as winter begins. That can be a costly assumption if the temperature doesn't drop the way you expect or pests infesting your home don't respond as adversely to the low temperatures.

Having a Columbia, Mo professional pest exterminator like Atkins ensures that you will have peace of mind no matter which pests try to invade your home when winter weather sets in here. If you do notice some new unwelcome winter inhabitants, call Atkins to prevent any damage to your home or health.

Winter Work to be Done

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 14:21:39 GMT

Winter is here...now what to do?

Winter is here. Now what to do? For the landscaper, there’s still plenty to do out there. If we’re not working on cleaning up a snow or ice storm, there’s always holiday lights to take down and store for the season, pruning and landscape beds to be cleaned up, removing those persistent leaves around the property and working on equipment to prepare for the coming spring. It’ll be here before you know it.

Here’s a few tidbits of info on winter projects you may be working on as well:

Tree & Shrub Care

With temps below freezing and a dry December behind us, you may see some winter desiccation (injury) on your ornamental plants. Extended dry periods can really dehydrate your plants and in a worst-case scenario the plants can experience some “winter kill.” Watering when the ground is not frozen may be a good idea for your more sensitive trees and shrubs. I’ve got some new trees that I’m still watering to keep from having to replace them in the spring.

Now that it’s winter and we’ve had a good freeze, your plants should be fairly well “hardened off” and ready for pruning. Some species require pruning later in the spring or even over the summer. Might do some research on your plants before you start making cuts! You can prune to manage size, create shape, remove dead plant material and to also rejuvenate your shrubs by cutting them back a bit more aggressively. Prune to train your trees to grow away from your house and roof to prevent damage with the next storm that blows through. Keep in mind – Once you’ve made the cut, you can’t take it back!

Rodent Patrol

Wildlife often move indoors for the winter. Mice and voles often find their way into the house in search of food and shelter. They can squeeze through a hole as small as the diameter of a #2 pencil. That’s crazy! Aside from seeing critters scurrying about, you can often hear them scratching or moving about after dark or see droppings and chew marks on dry good materials. Plug any and all holes to limit their access points with caulk, steel wool, copper mesh, expandable foam or whatever material best suits the size, type and placement of the hole you’re working on. If mice make you a bit squeamish, you might call on a pest professional.

Snow & Ice Management

If you’re out there snow blowing or shoveling your drive and walks, please be careful. A slip and fall on a patch of ice can really set you back. I personally carry a set of ice traction cleats that I can slip on over my boots for a bit of traction of even the worst iced-over surface. After clearing your snow, you can apply a light dose of a landscape and pet friendly ice melt product to help reduce re-freeze issues. Do some research on the materials available at your favorite hardware store and choose the one that best suits your needs and the temperatures we’re expecting with that particular snow or ice event. If your place of business needs help with managing those events, we can help you with that!

Taking Down Lights

Most people start taking their holiday lights down right after the New Year’s party. Pick a warm sunny day if you can. That will make it a bit easier to work from the ladder safely and to store your lighting materials in a dry storage tub. Most ladder-related injuries occur when getting on or off of the ladder. Remember to use 3 points of contact when on a ladder. 2 feet and 1 hand or 1 foot and 2 hands whenever you can. That means you may have to slow down a bit when going up or down. Moving too quickly can result in only having 2 points of contact at a time and a risky ride down to the ground!

A couple of things we’ve learned about storing lights might help you as well: Rolling your mini lights into a ball (1 strand = 1 ball) can actually make putting them up next season a bit easier. If you have multiple strands of lights on the house, marking the end of each strand will help you know where it goes next year as well. Take some of the guesswork out of it.

We’re excited for an exceptional 2022. Be sure to let us know if ever we can be of any help to you and hopefully you’ll have a great year too!

DIY vs Professional: Know When to Hire the Pest Control Pros at Atkins

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 18:37:47 GMT

DIY Pest Control: Three things to consider when managing pests on your own in Mid-Missouri

Pest control problems can be small or devastating, like discovering that termites have ruined your foundation. Don’t let a seemingly simple pest problem become a big deal. When in doubt, call the professional pest control team at Atkins.

1. The time it takes to get rid of pests

Removing pests can only take a few minutes of your time. If you see ants in your kitchen, it will only take a moment to set a trap like sticky paper or liquid bait. However, if you have set multiple traps and ants are still taking over your home, it’s time to call a professional.

Atkins’ experienced pest control experts are ready to give ants and other household pets a swift and effective eviction notice. Our Total-Trac Program offers coverage and peace of mind for 30 pests, including spiders, roaches, stinging insects, and more!

2. The cost of DIY pest control

Mice are some of the easiest pests to identify. They are larger than insects and leave droppings and obvious signs of their handiwork like chewed through wires or torn food packaging. When you see signs of a mouse, you can easily purchase mouse traps. With a few dollars and time, you might catch the culprit and the only thing stealing cookies out of the cookie jar is you!

Unfortunately, where there is one rodent, there are often more. Mice can chew through wiring and start a fire, or tear out your insulation. If you catch a mouse in your home or business but you’re still seeing signs of rodents, call the wildlife removal team at Atkins right away! The professionals at Atkins will help you identify the critters overtaking your home and create a plan for removing them for good.

3. The severity of the pest infestation

Some pest issues are easy to manage yourself, but others require professional pest control services to remove. Pests like bed bugs and termites should always be eliminated by a professional. Termites can cause an incredible amount of damage to your home and you might not even know it until it’s too late!

Don’t take pest control problems like termites or bed bugs into your own hands. Call the experienced team at Atkins for a detailed bed bug or termite inspection.

Eliminate Pests in Your Mid-Missouri Home with Atkins’ Pest Control Services

At Atkins, we handle all kinds of creepy, crawly, and downright dangerous pests. From raccoons in the attic to termites in your foundation, we can help you take back control of your home or business. Our friendly and knowledgeable team members will help target the source of your pest problems and develop a plan to get rid of them permanently. Call us today for a free estimate on any of our Mid-Missouri pest control services.

Get Smart About Your Lawn

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 15:04:16 GMT

We go through life seeing, doing and experiencing different things. We expect to learn, grow, develop skills and become more effective in whatever it is we do. If we’re lucky, we have people in our lives that help speed up this process. They’ve been there, done that and shared their wisdom. Hopefully we listened!

For me, I have had a lot of people in my life who have shared and helped me along the way. I tried to listen. I often wish I had listened more intently and asked more questions too. Some of these mentors aren’t around as much or are gone now and their knowledge and experiences with them. So, with this article I was hoping to share a few key takeaways that I have learned over the years in the Turf and Tree business and share often with our customers and with anyone else that will listen.

Mow tall and mow often

For the 95% of us that try to grow predominantly fescue lawns, this holds true. You typically don’t have to change your frequency, just mow taller when the weather dictates (June – August). Sometimes I ask customers to just mow as tall as you can stand it. Taller grass shades the soil keeping it cooler thus reducing weed pressure and stress on the turf.

If grass doesn’t want to grow there, you may just have to accept it

I’ve found that you have to really be committed to growing grass where it doesn’t want to. Lawn areas in full shade, for example. Sometimes giving in and “naturalizing” an area like this makes more sense in the long run. There are a lot of plants better suited for shade and require a lot less maintenance.

Right plant, right place

If you know your property and its issues, you will better be able to select landscape plants that will do well there. Example – Don’t plant a shade-loving plant on the southwest facing side of your house. It’s going to be too hot! Many plants call for a “well drained soil” which we often do not have with our heavy clay soils so you have to plant them a bit higher in a raised bed.

Bermudagrass is a bugger!

Although we try to manage and control bermudagrass that has found its way into many Columbia lawns, it nearly seems impossible. Controlling one type of grass within another type is tough and require multiple treatments and/or methods of control. Even when you think you’ve got it under control, it often comes back a couple of years later. Very frustrating!

Pay attention

Watch the weather and work around the rain, snow, frost, drought and wind as needed. Watch for pests and their impact on the lawn and landscape. Know what’s going on in your environment so you can plan and react accordingly.

If your soil isn’t healthy, your plants won’t be either.

Soil testing can serve as a guide to improve upon soil health. Often times we know the issue. You’re trying to grow plants in some good ‘ol Boone County clay and it’s a lot harder than you think.

Now is the time to make improvements on your lawn. September presents the best chance for filling in those thin and bare areas of the lawn. So, get out there and take advantage. And as usual, don’t hesitate to ask for help or simply for advice. We’re here to help. It’s what we do.New Paragraph

Protect the Lawn You Love this Summer

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 17:12:36 GMT

Summer time!

What a start to summer we have had! Extreme heat and drought early, then torrential downpours and mild temperatures. You really do never know what our mid-Missouri weather has in store for us from one year to the next and often from one day to the next. Quite the weather rollercoaster we’re on!

Here are some interesting tidbits about lawn care, landscape maintenance and irrigation for the summer months:

Turf Care

Often times we find ourselves trying to managing weeds and fungal disease this time of year.

Weeds

From crabgrass to nutsedge to lespedeza to dandelions, many of our weed control issues can be reduced with good mowing and maintenance practices. Mow tall. Sharpen those mower blades. Water when needed to keep your turf dense and healthy. Anything you can do to reduce stress on your turf will help to also reduce pressure from undesirable plants popping up where you don’t want them. Spot spray for weeds when appropriate and necessary.

Fungus

Brown Patch is our leading fungal disease for cool season turf in our area and nearly every lawn in town has it at some level every season. Once overnight temperatures stay above 60-65 degrees, this soil-borne fungus begins to feed on susceptible turf species. Again, maintaining the overall health of your lawn will help it survive.

Ornamental Landscape Plants

There are so many things are going on over the summer in our landscapes. A lot of the tree and shrub disease and insect damage that began in the late spring are showing their symptoms over the summer. Cedar Apple Rust, Fireblight, spider mites, bagworms, anthracnose, etc. all start in the spring, but damage shows up or is exaggerated by temperatures during the summer months. Some can be managed now, but others would need planned to head-off next spring.

Japanese Beetles

They are still feeding. Populations vary year to year, but they still show up every summer in droves and feed on around 400 different plant species!

Water When Needed

All of that plus heat and drought stress, too. What the heck?! Even those 80-foot-tall oak trees need a drink every now and again. Getting to know your plants and their water needs is always a good idea. Keep in mind that too much water can have the same effect as no water at all.

Irrigation Systems

If you’re fortunate enough to have one, keeping it in good, effective working order can be a challenge

System Checks

The process of running through each of your sprinkler zones to make sure all of the irrigation heads are functioning properly and you’re covering all areas of the lawn and landscape appropriately.

Seasonal Adjust

Most newer irrigation controllers have the ability to adjust the time of operation simply by increasing or decreasing the percent of time on the schedule (0% = won’t run at all. 150% = the controller will add 50% more time to the watering cycles).

Wi-Fi Controllers

Like most everything else, if you want to control your irrigation system from your phone, you can! Pretty cool stuff out there now to help you manage your water usage.

Summer can be brutal, but all in all, we love what we do, even with the challenges we face during a Mid-Missouri summer. We hope that your lawn and landscape survive the season!

Pet Damage and Lawn Care Tips

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 19:04:03 GMT

Often times there is a bit of a challenge between the love you hold for your lawn and the love for your pup. You spend countless hours maintaining and manicuring your lawn to develop a stand of turf worthy of praise from all who see it. You love your furry friend and he returns it unconditionally, but sometimes creates issues in the lawn.

It’s not the acidity of the urine causing an issue.

It’s nitrogen and salts, and a dog’s urine is loaded with both. Although nitrogen is good for the soil and your turf, too much of it in one spot can burn even the lushest grass. Nitrogen levels can vary in urine, so spotting issues will vary from pup to pup and even day to day, since the nitrogen levels has to do with their diet, water intake, and overall health. Male and female pooches can cause spots in the lawn, but it seems that females tend to squat in the same areas over and over, creating a concentration of nitrogen, whereas the fellas seem to wander and hike their leg to spread out their contributions.

Droppings also contain an abundance of nitrogen and salts.

Being solid, they take longer to break down, but can still create burned spots in the lawn. You’ll often see dark green rings around feces in the lawn,

especially if the rest of the lawn is low in fertility. If left to sit on the grass, the droppings can also smother the grass in that spot.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP REDUCE THE DOG SPOTS?

For those who love their pup, it’s highly unlikely that keeping him or her off the lawn entirely is an option, so you will want to try something else. You can designate “pee areas” which can be heavily watered after each use. Or you can install a rock “pee area” so no grass gets damaged. This will take time to work on training. Even one walk a day with your pup can help to reduce the nitrogen load in your lawn. Don’t forget to take a doggie bag to clean up after! Removing the droppings from your lawn is a good idea as well.

Water regularly, fertilize your entire lawn and mow tall to help mask any spots. A healthy lawn can also weather the occasional overdose of nitrogen. Talk to your vet before buying any food supplements claiming to reduce dog burns in the lawn. Many of these addresses the pH of their urine, but remember that it is nitrogen and salts that are causing the burns in the lawn. Provide plenty of water for your pooch to help dilute the nitrogen levels. In the fall, you may want to reseed those unavoidable spots to help fill the lawn back in for next season.

Having a dog or two does not mean that you must have an unattractive lawn. A little planning ahead and a bit of knowledge of lawn maintenance can go a long way in keeping you and your pup happy. Great companions, loyal to a fault, and always excited to see us — hard to give that up for a spotless lawn!

Happy 200th Birthday, Columbia!

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:33:49 GMT

My great-great grandparents originally settled here in the Deer Park area in the late 1800’s near where Strawberry Hill now stands, so “the Henry’s” have seen a fair share of the 200-year history and growth around Columbia.

As we join the city in celebrating our birthday, I thought a list of “200 things you can do to improve your lawn and landscape,” would be fun, but decided that would be a huge list, so I decided to highlight just 20 things instead:

Test your soil . The MU Soil Extension Lab can give you recommendations on nutrient deficiencies, organic matter and soil pH issues based on your soil test and the plants you are trying to grow.
Identify the flowers, shrubs, trees and turf on your property so you’ll know more about how to manage them. Once you know what you have, you’ll be able to find information on common issues and normal care.
Pruning and bed clean-up is required by most landscape plants each season. Removing dead plant materials, weeds and undesirable growth can help improve the overall appearance and look of your property.
Remove the weeds that compete with your desirable plants (landscape beds, lawn, etc.) Less competition for sunlight, space, water, and nutrition will allow your plants to flourish and thrive.
Replace dead plants as needed . Look into native plants, as they often require less input and management. Do your homework before selecting plants for the site to save you time, effort and money later on. Right plant, right place.
Mow tall and mow often . Raising your cutting height over the summer months makes all the difference in the world when it comes to weed management, color of your turf and the overall reduction of stress on your turf. Don’t forget to sharpen those blades, too.
Installing mulch can improve the aesthetic value of your landscape, not to mention it adds organic matter to the soil around your plants.
Prune low-hanging limbs to add sunlight for the lawn around the tree. Remove any potential eye-gouging limbs as well for the mowers in your life.
Water when needed . Every lawn is different. If unsure of when or how much to water, keep in mind the rule of thumb – “Water deep, less often.”
Add seasonal color . Designate a portion of your landscape beds or add a flower pot with annuals to add a splash of color to your beds or your porch.
Fill any bare spots on your lawn with topsoil then seed and cover with seed mulch as needed.
Catch those moles! Enough said.
Get cozy. Have space and a need for an outside sitting area? Adding a fire pit, bench seat, a swing or a hammock is a great way to entertain family and friends.
Identify and manage pests. Whether it’s insects, skunk, deer or rabbit, bacteria or a fungal disease, knowing what is causing your lawn and landscape issues is a good first step in fixing the problem or avoiding it altogether.
Core aerate and over seed this Fall. If you have a fescue or bluegrass lawn, make plans to core aerate and over seed this September. Don’t do it now, as you’ll likely create weed control issues for the summer.
Don’t mow when it’s too wet . Change your mow pattern occasionally and use lighter weight equipment when available to avoid compaction issues with your lawn.
Add organics. Most soils we deal with in and around Columbia lack in organic matter.
A fountain or waterfall can add a focal point plus add soothing sounds to your landscape.
Draining issues? As the spring rains slow down, consider working on any drainage issues so future rains don’t turn your back lawn into a pond.
Love your lawn and landscape . Doing all these things may make it last 200 years!

As always, if there is anything we can do to help you, give us a call!

Kid-Friendly Backyard Fun for the Summer

Fri, 14 May 2021 17:49:56 GMT

Growing up, my brother and I never asked for permission to get dirty – that was a given. We were always outside running around the house helping mom weed the front landscape bed in our attempts to grow strawberries just off the front corner of the house a few different times. Then later, we planted some trees that she had given silly names out in the front lawn. I think some of these experiences helped shape who I am and now, how my wife and I raised our own kids and my connection to nature.

It’s okay if the kids get dirty!

In fact, being outside is good for our kids! With our busy lifestyles, it’s often hard to find time to work in a family trip to the park and not everyone has access to a rural Missouri farm, so we have to find other ways to get our kids outdoors. Here are some kid friendly and fun outdoor chores that may help connect your kiddo to nature right around your home:

Get them involved from the start. Talk to your kids about what you’re trying to do. Walk the property with them and take inventory of stuff that you all already have and come up with ideas of how you could use those things for “play.” Let their imaginations run. You may be surprised at what ideas they come up that may turn into a really fun family project.
Create an adventure pathway around the lawn and through your landscape beds. You can strategically place logs, rocks and boulders, pavers, bricks or other materials as step stones. If the landscape allows, maybe the path even leads to a secret hideaway for them. You can also bang around on these things to make music
Build a fort! Probably one of my boys’ favorite thing to do when they were kids (probably still!) was to build a fort. We had the luxury of a wooded lot behind our home and with that came lots of fallen sticks and limbs that they could tie together with twine or just lean and weave them together to hold some shape resembling a teepee or a log cabin. Speaking of, a good log can serve as seating or a table to carry out their adventures or just a good place to hang out. A word of caution though -- Watch out for splinters and poison ivy!
Inspect for wildlife. You would be surprised at the number and variety of interesting creatures around the lawn and landscape. You may have an opportunity to watch bees and butterflies pollinating, birds hunting for food, frogs hopping about, squirrels doing their busy work or maybe you’ll spot a “blue tailed” skink crawling out of its hiding place. You might even camp out in the lawn one night just to listen to all of the critters that move about your neighborhood.
Remember the benefits of a thick, healthy turf area where you can host picnics, story time, group games, or just kick back and watch the clouds pass by. Building a healthy lawn with colorful buffers around it can make for a luxurious getaway for you and the kiddos.
Play a good game of “I Spy” as it can help you figure out what draws your child’s attention. It also helps get them engaged in looking about the entire lawn and landscape trying to figure out where your clues lead.

We hope that you are able to find ways to pull your kids away from technology and introduce them to the natural surroundings at your home. Get outside and make some memories!! And remember, if ever you need help getting things in shape, let us know. We can help you with that!

A Good-Looking Lawn = Good for the Environment

Wed, 05 May 2021 18:09:40 GMT

Having a good-looking lawn has many advantages:

A healthy lawn is a soft and safe place for your family and pets to run around and play on.
It increases the aesthetic appeal and monetary value of your property.
It could set the standard for the neighborhood. If your neighbor sees how good your lawn looks, they might step up their game, too!

That all sounds great, but more importantly, a healthy lawn also acts as a natural filter, trapping dust, carbon dioxide and other airborne pollutants. This filtering results in cleaner lungs, windows, cars and homes, plus reduces the potential for global warming due to CO2 build up in the atmosphere.

Did you know that a 25 square foot patch of grass can provide enough oxygen for an adult for one full day?

PROTECTION FROM EROSION

Having healthy grass slows down runoff and keeps sediment from running into streams, lakes and rivers. This protects water quality not just for humans, but for the wildlife and vegetation that inhabit it. A thick lawn will have an extensive root system to help hold soil in place as well as grass blades to slow down the movement of surface water and wind that would otherwise erode our soils away.

GRASS IS REALLY COOL, TOO

A healthy lawn has a great cooling effect. Through transpiration, grass reduces the air temperature around it. We all know how hot an asphalt parking lot can be in July, yet even on a 90-degree day, our lawn temps aren’t bad at all.

LANDSCAPE PLANTS 101

Often placed for aesthetics, many landscape plates are also O2 producers and dust trappers, but one main benefit they provide are essential nutrients for our pollinators that play a vital role in the production of all our food. For this reason, many landscape designers now incorporate designated pollinator areas into their new construction plans, usually away from the front door.

Just remember, unkept landscape plants and lawns can harbor pests that can cause damage to other plants on your property, and even some that may harm your family (ticks, fleas, mosquitos, etc.).

If you think your lawn needs some help, we’re one of the home pros. We can offer suggestions on how to improve upon your lawn and landscape so that it can have a greater positive impact on our environment.

Sounds of Spring

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 18:16:50 GMT

Spring is upon us and Mother Nature’s music has begun. Claps of thunder from afar as a storm passes by, birds singing their song early in the morning, Spring Peepers calling in chorus at dusk, squirrels rustling about all day, and of course, mowers, trimmers and blowers buzzing across the neighborhood!

Do you know what it means to “open it up?”

Have you mowed your lawn yet? For many, the first mow, or “opening it up,” often marks the official start to Spring. There’s nothing like that sense of gratification you get from completing your first lap around your lawn on the ‘ole mower. Creating “new lines” or “striping” is always fun, too, but once you start, you can’t stop!

If you’ve already “opened up” your lawn for the season, there’s still a few things you can do:

Clean up the mess. Sticks, leaves, acorns and other debris. This frees up space for your turf and reduces the chances of causing damage to your mower. If you have a lot of dead weeds, rake them up and seed to fill any voids. This can reduce weed pressure over the summer. Oh, and for all you dog lovers out there, dog waste is NOT a natural fertilizer. Clean it up!
Assess your soil. Pull a soil sample and send it off to the MU Extensions soil lab. They can provide you with valuable information to help you manage your lawn and landscape this season. They can also make recommendations for lime, organic matter and fertility (Macro and Micro Nutrients).
Spring seeding. Fill in bare spots with a bit of new topsoil as needed. Score the surface, seed and cover with straw. Be careful though! If you disturb the soil too much, you might make your lawn more susceptible weeds this summer.
Fertilize and apply preemergent weed control. Crabgrass begins to germinate once soil temps hold at 50-55 degrees for a few days in a row. Proper fertility now can provide your lawn with good color and modest growth. Don’t over apply! You may wind up mowing every other day!
Service your lawn mower. Check the oil, refresh and top off the gas tank, clean or replace the air filter, and if it’s still difficult to start, it may be due for a tune-up or even replacement. Don’t forget to sharpen the blades. A dull mower blade shreds the tips of your grass, giving it a dull, tattered appearance.

We hope you have a wonderful Spring. Remember, no matter what you decide to do with your lawn this season, we’re here to answer any questions you might have about your property. That’s what friends and neighbors do.

Winter Lawn Care 101

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 14:28:00 GMT

Although winter technically doesn’t “begin” until Dec. 21 this year, it certainly feels like it’s here. With the occasional below freezing temps in the morning, we start to focus on our winter lawn care projects. One of our greatest concerns for our lawn this time of year is frost damage.

Have you ever seen yellow footprints or tire tracks burned into your green lawn this time of year?
This can happen when the temperatures are low enough to freeze the moisture inside the individual grass blades and then someone walks across or runs a piece of equipment over it. The cell walls in the grass blades are fractured, which kills the tissue causing it to desiccate (dry up and turn yellow-brown), leaving tracks behind for weeks. Typically, the damage is temporary, and depending on soil temperatures, the grass may recover and fill in the damaged area sooner than later. If we go into a cold dry winter, the damage may last for months until the soil warms and growth resumes.

Although the remaining days in 2020 are flying by, we are still applying a winter fertilizer to lawns to help prepare them for next spring’s “green up.” The lawn winterizer application to the lawn in the late fall can help improve upon your lawn’s color and overall health as we head into the winter months. Although your grass isn’t growing now as fast as it was back in May, it is still active and developing. Proper fertility now will help with root development and next season. Water loss is at a minimum since weather has cooled down and growth has slowed, so watering your lawn isn’t necessary.

Schedule your irrigation system winterization .
If you have an irrigation system , don’t forget to call Atkins to winterize it. Blowing the water out of your sprinkler system lines and backflow devices can save you a lot of headache and expense next spring when you try to fire it back up. There’s nothing worse than seeing water boil out of your lawn from a broken irrigation line when you’re trying to water new plants or grass.

Leaves, leaves and more leaves!
Don’t forget to get those piles of leaves off the lawn. If left for a long period of time, the leaves will mat down and smother your turf. Mow them up or blow them off the lawn if you can. Rake them up and haul them off if you have too. Some lawns are easier to keep leaves off than others and if you are lucky, you will only need to do it once! Don’t want to do it? We can help you with that.

Now is the time to feed your ornamental trees and shrubs.
Dormant feeding of your landscape plants will help them recover from summer stress and prepare them for putting on new growth next spring. We can also address nutritional problems at this time by adding iron, calcium, Sulfur, magnesium, copper zinc, boron, manganese and others. If you have any new plants, fertilizing them this fall may be a good idea to further help them get established to tolerate the extremes of next summer. Visit our previous blog for more information about feeding your ornamental trees and shrubs. For help with winter lawn care, contact Atkins today. We’re here to make sure you have the most healthy and beautiful lawn and landscapes in your neighborhood all-year-round.

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Reduce Stress and Spread Holiday Cheer

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 20:44:00 GMT

There are no more rules when it comes to when you should put up your holiday lights after the year we’ve had. Some mental health professionals even encourage you to put your decorations up sooner than later as they can bring you joy and reduce stress .

“ATKINS INSTALLS HOLIDAY LIGHTS?”

We do, and we’d love to do your holiday lighting installation at your home or business. Our team of experts at Atkins can create a custom-built holiday lighting system that is beautiful and contemporary.

The best part?

After a couple of seasons, think about all the time, money and chiropractic appointments you’ll save yourself when you let a member of the Atkins Lighting Team install, maintain and take down your lights and decorations. Picture a Clark W. Griswold incident. The Atkins Lighting Team is here to save your holidays!

HERE’S HOW WE DO IT

Another reason to partner with Atkins for holiday lights? We will store your lights and decorations in our temperature-controlled building. Not only does this maximize the lifespan of your lights, but it also saves you room in your garage, basement, or attic. You’re welcome in advance.

COMMERCIAL LIGHTING DISPLAYS

If you’re driving around Columbia, keep an eye out for some of our lights at your favorite businesses.

Shelter Office Plaza at the corner of Stadium and Broadway. Check out that massive wreath!

The next time you’re cruising around the MU Campus, check out some of the fraternities and sororities. We install decorations at several houses year after year.

The Callaway Bank on the corner of Forum and Chapel Hill Road.

“ We appreciate partnering with the Atkins team to manage our outdoor Christmas lighting. They do a great job, and we don’t have to worry about the project or be hassled by the cold. ” – Debbie LaRue, VP and Director of Public Relations for The Callaway Bank.

Are you feeling festive this year? Call the Atkins Holiday Lighting Team to create a custom holiday light display that will surely make your neighbors and competitors jealous!

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Rats, Squirrels and Mice, Oh My!

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 20:25:00 GMT

Keep your home rodent-free with Atkins’ pest control services .

Rodents, like rats, squirrels and mice — while cute — can easily wreak havoc on your home or business. From ripping up insulation, tearing up furniture, or damaging your electrical wiring, these creepy crawlers will chew on just about anything.

You shoulda called Atkins!

Electrical Damage

Wiring is one of the most common places where we find damage from rodents. While it can harm them, it can cause much more damage to your electrical wiring and put your safety at risk. Not only can this be costly to fix, but damaged wiring can also start fires.

Insulation Damage

Rodents can make their nests out of anything, including paper, garbage and even your insulation. If a rodent decides insulation is its nest of choice, it will burrow and create tunnels through your insulation. This can decrease air quality as they nest and use your insulation as their personal bathroom. This also makes your home more difficult to heat in the winter months.

Damage to Personal Items

Rodents will chew on just about anything (except peppermint – they don’t like it) — this includes your furniture and other personal belongings. We all have some irreplaceable items in our homes, and if a rodent got its paws on it, it can be hard to salvage. If you suspect you have a rodent problem, give the Atkins pest control team a call. Our Rodent Patrol program helps eliminate pests by using long-term solutions so they don’t return.

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Give Your Ornamental Trees and Shrubs Some TLC

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 21:00:00 GMT

With winter quickly approaching, now is the best time to start thinking about pruning your beloved trees and shrubs as most of them head into dormancy this time of year. Proper pruning and maintenance of your ornamental trees and shrubs also keeps them healthy and looking great. The Atkins Grounds Maintenance Team uses the best pruning and tree trimming techniques to keep your landscape in good health while making sure things don’t get out of control.

We recommend tree pruning and tree shaping over the winter months and early spring for most plants in this area. Some that flower early spring need to be pruned later. We can help you determine what plants need pruning and when.

There are several reasons to prune your trees and shrubs. Here are a few important ones:

What are some of the most common ornamental trees and shrubs in Mid-Missouri?

There is a tremendous variety of landscape plants used in the area, but some of the more common ornamental trees and shrubs in Mid-Missouri are:

Don’t forget — your ornamental grasses need cutting back every winter, too, to keep them from thinning out.

We believe your trees and shrubs only deserve the best. Don’t put them in harm’s way by trying to DIY your way through pruning. All of our pruning is done with your landscape’s best interest in mind.

Contact Atkins tree service today!

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Unwelcome Hitchhikers: How We Find and Control Bed Bugs

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 17:43:00 GMT

Bed bugs are not something you want in your home. They are small insects that live on the blood of animals and humans. They don’t fly, but move incredibly quickly over floors, walls and ceilings. Females lay hundreds of eggs throughout their lifetime. Each egg is tiny, measuring one quarter the size of a grain of rice. Before reaching adulthood, bed bugs shed their skin five times and must feast on blood before they shed.

While they’re not guests you want in your home, they’re not known to transmit diseases. Bed bugs aren’t a sign of being dirty either. You’re just as likely to find them in a clean home as a dirty one. They can enter your home without you knowing from luggage, clothing and used furniture, such as beds or couches. Their flat bodies were made to hide, and they can fit into the tiniest of spaces, just about the width of a debit card.

A bed bug bite starts off as painless, but later turns itchy and red. Bed bugs will bite at any unexposed skin while you sleep. People who don’t know they have bed bugs may think the bites are from mosquitoes or fleas. You’ll have to find the bugs in your home to be sure. If you suspect an infestation, you’ll want to check in your bedding and around the mattress for signs of the bugs or dark, rusty spots from their excrement. Bed bugs also give off a musty odor. Check areas around your bed, such as books, carpet, outlets and your closet. As soon as you find something, give us a call, and we can handle these pesky hitchhikers. If you’re unsure what you should be checking for, let us know , and we can hunt them down for you, free of charge.

Once we find the bed bugs, we provide a list of preparations for you and inform you of the costs of the treatment . We will then heat and spray-treat all the rooms to ensure no bugs will linger in your home. Bed bugs, and their eggs, die within an hour and a half at 118°F or instantly at 122°F. We’ll bring in special equipment to properly heat your home. Our team strategically places thermometers throughout your home to ensure that the correct temperature is met — we evenly heat each room to 135°F and then move to the next space.

We leave no stone unturned and will then spray-treat your home to ensure you will no longer be bothered by bugs — the other guys will either just heat or spray-treat your home. This process takes anywhere from four to six hours, depending on the size of your home. At Atkins, we communicate with you every step of the process to make sure you’re informed and happy with the services we provide for you.

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The Benefits of Fall Mulching

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 15:01:00 GMT

Fall mulching can improve the health of your garden.

The care that your lawn and garden needs doesn’t just go away because winter is coming. Some of the most important work you can do for your garden happens in the fall. Sprucing up your beds and adding mulch is almost a necessity to prepare for the Midwest winters and let your garden recover from the harsh summer heat. Hence, all-season lawn care is important.

Here are five benefits of fall mulching.

Lawn care is important because your garden needs a new refresh in the fall, not only to help it recover from the summer and prepare for the winter but also because it just looks good. Before you add your fall mulch, pick up any plant debris to decrease the chances of mold and pull out any weeds so that they don’t receive the benefits of mulching that your garden plants will. It’s never too late to mulch — your plants will thank you in the spring with healthy and beautiful growth. So give us a call at Atkins and help us provide you the best mulching and overall lawn care services.

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Core Aeration and Seeding

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 01:24:00 GMT

The importance of why you need core aeration service and seeding this fall.

You’ve mowed, you’ve fertilized and you’ve watered. Your healthy, thick grass is within reach, but wait — you’re missing one key element in your lawn care to treat yourself to a luscious lawn. This fall, we’re here to talk with you about the importance of core aeration and seeding, and why the time is now to do so.

At Atkins, without a doubt we provide the best lawn care service by looking after your property as if it were our own. We love healthy, green lawns that make your home or commercial property look maintained and well-manicured. Atkins soil aeration will help you achieve the lawn of your dreams. Soil aeration breaks up the soil’s surface to open it up for water, nutrients and air exchange.

We perform core aeration for a more immediate impact on the look and health of your lawn. Core aeration pulls “cores” of soil from the ground to make your soil less compact and absorb nutrients more quickly. Core aeration also has the added benefit of bringing the soil’s microbes to the surface to break down the thatch layer. Aerating in the fall is important for your lawn’s health to encourage the spread of some grass strains, such as Zoysia and Bermuda, and to make room for cool-season grass to germinate, such as Tall Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass.

To make soil aeration actually benefit the health of your lawn, you need to act now by seeking cutting edge lawn care. Fall aeration allows your lawn to breathe and receive necessary nutrients before the harsh winter weather sets in.

Seeding is also a much-needed service in the fall to maintain your healthy lawn. Weeds are aggressive, and you need to make your lawn beat out those pesky weeds. Weeds will take over any bare spot in your lawn, so you need to fill those areas with what you want — healthy, luscious grass seeds — before it’s too late. Not only will your grass look better after seeding, but you are creating better soil for years to come by fighting off erosion.

At Atkins, our experienced technicians are experts in many processes for seeding and can recommend the best option for your lawn. In many cases, we will “overseed” your lawn to fill in any bare patches to create a full, dense area. We also offer seeding directly after aeration where we plant the seeds directly in the holes we create to allow nutrients and water to better absorb into the soil. Another option is slit seeding, where small shallow cuts are made into the soil to create rows for the grass to grow in.

No matter what your current lawn looks like, Atkins will provide you with custom lawn care in order for you to realize the lawn of your dreams. We have more than four decades of experience in central Missouri, so we know how our soils and weather impact lawns and landscapes. Aerating and seeding your lawn now before the cold weather sets in is crucial for a healthy, dense lawn to make you the envy of the neighborhood!

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Taking Care of Our Seniors

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 19:24:00 GMT

At Atkins, our approach is personal and catered to meet the needs of your facility and the residents who live in it.

We know senior care facilities are under tremendous pressure to contain costs due to increasing healthcare expenses and cuts in Medicare and Medicaid payments. These aggressive regulations related to resident care contribute to stress and increased costs.

We can help you with that!

As we continue to navigate through COVID-19, we continue to identify needs for businesses in our community. That’s why we’re pleased to offer our services for senior care facilities .

Extensive experience cleaning medical facilities.

Atkins has long-standing relationships cleaning medical facilities across the state of Missouri, include cleaning of critical care areas of hospitals, surgery centers, skilled nursing facilities and off-site clinic networks. Making the transition to senior care is simple.

What services do you classify as “senior care”?
We like to think this includes not only senior living communities, but assisted living and long-term care facilities.

Our services include:

Technology in Disinfecting

Ever heard of electrostatic disinfecting cleaning technology? It doesn’t just clean, it disinfects. This unique process uses an electrical charge and specialized cleaning solution to wrap around a surface to provide more effective coverage than traditional cleaners.

We only use hospital-grade cleaning solutions approved by the EPA and proven to kill COVID-19 and other common viruses found in senior care living facilities.

There are more traditional cleaning methods and there are Atkins cleaning methods. Which do you prefer?

Need more than cleaning services?

We offer an extensive list of other programs, including a variety of pest control and grounds maintenance services. Feeling festive? We even do holiday lighting installation!

Call (573) 874-5100 for a consultation and quote for any of our offerings.

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Add Atkins to Your School Supply List

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 17:24:00 GMT

We all know this school year is going to be different than any year we’ve ever experienced.

Are you:

A) An employee of a school district gearing up to go back to school.
B) A parent gearing up to send your child off to school.
C) A parent gearing up for remote learning.

No matter how you answered, Atkins is here to help you succeed this year !

For 95 years, we’ve provided our community with a variety of different services in their time of need, and this year is no different.

SCHOOL DISTRICTS & BUSINESSES

Keep Everyone Protected from COVID-19

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Atkins has offered COVID-19 disinfectant cleaning solutions tailored to fit your specific needs*.

In an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in Missouri, Atkins is pleased to offer disinfectant cleaning solutions that are approved by the EPA and proven to kill Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 or SARS-CoV-2.

Creating peace of mind this school year is going to be essential for teachers, staff and students. Our team of trained professionals is here to help. If you’re interested in COVID-19 disinfectant cleaning services at your school, call us for a free quote. We tailor our pricing to your specific building and location.

Look Good Year Round with Our Special Services

Atkins is known throughout Columbia, Jefferson City, Springfield and nearby communities for providing schools and business owners with superior quality professional cleaning services .

We offer recurring or one-time services, such as interior and exterior window cleaning , floor and grout cleaning and carpet cleaning .

Our Special Services Team is dedicated to helping you keep your building looking it’s best all throughout the school year.

*Our Cleaning and Special Services are currently available for businesses only. No residential services for COVID-19 cleaning are available at this time. We apologize for the inconvenience.

AT SCHOOL OR AT HOME

Stay Protected from Creepy Crawlers

Unless you’ve got a classroom pet, we want to keep your school and home protected from pests.

“As more people work remotely or gear up for remote learning this fall and winter, there will be a lack of a variety of food sources, including garbage, that come from humans on campuses and office facilities, ” said Sean Chase, Director and Associate Certified Entomologist of the Atkins Pest Control Team.

Whether your pests are insects, rodents or wildlife, the Atkins Pest Control Team has you covered.

With Winter just around the corner, read our blog about critters looking for comfort in your home or school.

Keep Your Property Looking Good

Trained and certified lawn care technicians from Atkins have all the resources to keep your residential or commercial lawns and landscapes in pristine condition.

Our approach is personal: “We look after your property as if it were our own.”

Since Atkins is the expert in turf and tree care , pest control , irrigation and commercial cleaning , don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions about your lawn. We would be happy to offer you recommendations on how you can keep your lawn and school grounds looking good this year.

We wish you a safe and happy school year!

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Atkins Customer Service Team for the Win

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 15:52:00 GMT

If there was an award for “ Best Customer Service Representatives in Small Business, ” the Atkins Customer Service Team would win.

For years, our company motto has remained the same:

“Dedicated to exceptional customer service in property maintenance, delivered with a sense of respect, friendliness, knowledge and community spirit.”

A team of three, the Atkins Customer Service team are mighty, knowledgeable and they love our customers. Talking to customers every day about preventative pest control, lawn care, irrigation systems and commercial cleaning isn’t always an easy job, but Vicki, Charles and John take pride in their work.

I sat down with each of them to ask a couple questions about ways we can better serve YOU , our dedicated customers.

Vicki Day

Q: If you could give Atkins customers one piece of advice, what would it be?
Vicki : “Don’t put off giving us a call if you see some sort of bug or critter around your home or business. The longer you put it off, the worse it could get.”

Q: What do our customers like most about doing business with Atkins?
Vicki : “They love our employees and our technicians! I’ve had many customers tell me we offer a personal touch that most companies don’t. Our customers also remember our technicians’ names which makes them feel good.”

Q: What’s one thing that sets you apart from other customer service professionals?
Vicki : “I think some of our customers are amazed at how much I know about pests! We have a lot of informational books about pests in our office and when it’s a slow call day, I will open a book and read up as much as I can.”

Charles Nickolaus

Q: What could we do to make Atkins customers happier?
Charles : “Sometimes, we go above and beyond for our customers. If we don’t offer a service they are looking for, we often refer them to our competitors because we still want them to get taken care of, even if we don’t offer that particular service at Atkins. Customers remember that.”

Q: If you could give Atkins customers one piece of advice, what would it be?
Charles : “Sign up for our prepay program each year. It’s a great way to save money in the long run, plus, you don’t have to worry about paying for things later, kind of like a “set it and forget it” philosophy.”

Q: When you notice a customer isn’t using Atkins for as many services as they used to, what do you try and do about that?
Charles: “I usually loop one of our managers in, whether it’s for Turf & Tree, Pest Control, Irrigation or Commercial Cleaning. Often times, the manager gives the customer a call to get more information. The extra step usually results in the customer adding that service back on because we took the time to call and find out what went wrong.”

John Sisler

Q: What do Atkins customers like most about doing business with us?
John: “Our products, services and prices are usually better than our competitors. That always makes them happy.”

Q: What’s one thing you do that Atkins customers compliment?
John: “I always try to be honest and upfront with our customers. If I don’t know the answer to their question, I will get them to someone who does.”

Q: If you could ask an Atkins customer to do one thing for you, what would it be?
John: “Tell a friend about Atkins! Not only does that help us, the customer gets $25 off their next service for each referral that purchases a program from Atkins.”

When you get an invoice from us, check the back side for this coupon. Fill it out, send it in and voila! Discount applied!

If there is something we at Atkins can do to make you happier or improve one of our services, give us a call. We want to hear from you! Call us at (573) 874-5100 or email customerservice@atkinsinc.com .

Thank you for being our partner for 95 years!

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WANTED: Your Cozy Home Over the Fall and Winter

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 20:28:00 GMT

They’re cute.

They’re cuddly.

They’re headed for your comfortable home or office this fall and winter.

RODENTS!

Do you find yourself Googling “ How to get ride of mice ” or “ best mouse traps ?” You shoulda called Atkins, the best pest preventative pest control company, to save yourself time and energy.

At Atkins, we specialize in pest control and wildlife removal and are dedicated to protecting your home or business from the dangers associated with both.

“As more people work remotely or gear up for remote learning this fall and winter, there will be a lack of a variety of food sources, including garbage, that come from humans on campuses and office facilities,” said Sean Chase, Director and Associate Certified Entomologist of the Atkins Pest Control Team.

When rodents can’t hit their usual “hot spots” for their meals, they are forced to look for alternative ways to feed and take shelter. This will drive pest populations into commercial and residential buildings for food and/or shelter.

Squirrels

If one of these pests takes residence in your home or business, you may find nests of fur, miscellaneous nuts, leaves and other plants in the attic, walls or crawl spaces.

Mice

Mice are notorious for squeezing into tiny spaces, some as small as a dime. They love chewing on electrical wires because the coating is either soy or corn based. It also smells like food when a current passes through it. Mice will use insulation for nesting material and will sneak into cabinets where all the good snacks are stored.

While they look cute, their droppings and fur host some nasty diseases and parasites, so as soon as you see one, you better call Atkins, the experts who specialize in affordable mouse control in your town.

Our Interior Rodent Treatment is done using a couple different treatment methods. The Atkins technician will discuss the best option for your home or business.

Our Rodent Control Program offers protection to your home or business on the inside and out. Generally, we place six to eight exterior bait stations around the perimeter of the structure. We check these stations monthly or quarterly (depending on severity and the amount of activity) and add new bait as needed.

Are the rodent control treatment methods safe for my pets?
All items will be placed in discreet areas out of reach from your pets. If you ever rearrange your furniture, the stations will need to be moved, too.

Raccoons & Wildlife Removal

“Many years ago, I lived in an older brick home in Boonville that used to have wood stoves in each room,” recalled Beth Kaiser, Atkins Director of Marketing and Business Development. “My daughter heard scratching in the wall where the old chimney used to be. No sooner than I leaned my head against the wall to take a closer listen, a raccoon paw loosened the metal plate covering the hole where the stove used to be and started wiggling it’s paw around! I quickly placed my hand on the opening so the raccoon didn’t get into the house!”

Ever had anything like that happen to you?

Our wildlife removal experts believe in wildlife reduction, usually from the ground, in the most environmentally-friendly and humanely way possible. We will make recommendations to you to seal and/or fix areas of access to wildlife so other furry invaders won’t take the place of the ones removed.

Have additional questions about the furry friends in your backyard at your business? We at Atkins are here to provide proven and affordable solutions for your home or business designed to keep pests out.

Call Atkins at (573) 874-5100 for a free quote!

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WANTED: Weeds…all of them.

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 19:37:00 GMT

Weeds…they will pop up in your lawn, garden and landscape beds, resulting in a less than desirable situation.

Do you have any of these at your home or business? Our team of lawn care experts will help you get your weeds controlled or eliminated.

Broadleaf Plantain – Will come back year after year and most commonly found in your lawn, driveway or even your garden.

Clover – one of the most common perennial weeds, and often a favorite for our kids and furry friends. An “indicator weed,” clover will come up in lawns lacking in fertility. You need to ask yourself this one question: Do you feel lucky?

Crabgrass – another very common weed that pops up in thin or bare spots in the lawn and along the edges of your landscape beds.

Curly Dock – This can be a large plant if left to its own devices and is easily identified by its curly leaves.

Dandelions – every child’s favorite “flower.” Avoid the temptation of blowing the seeds around your lawn.

Knotweed – “Knotweed grows in compacted areas, like along driveways or even in the middle of a school’s football field,” said Tim Dimmitt, Turf & Tree Manager. “Control is difficult and it can overtake your property like nothing else.”

Purslane – a very common plant and weed, it can be a challenge to control.

Spotted Spurge – Easily identifiable by the spots on the leaves. This weed will quickly invade sidewalks and landscape beds if left untreated.

“This one is a summer annual and each plant can produce thousands of seeds each summer for next year’s crop,” said Turf & Tree Director, Shaun Henry.

We specialize in commercial and residential lawn care services. We will come out and take a look for free and work with you to come up with a treatment plan to “lock up” those bad weeds for good!

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Got a Cracked Lawn?

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 20:31:00 GMT

Summer in Mid-Missouri means temps will rise well into the 90’s throughout July and August and maybe even hotter.

If you read our 5 Ways to Survive the Summer post, you read about the importance of keeping your lawn and landscape hydrated as much as possible, including making sure it receives up to 1 to 1-1/2 inches of irrigation or rain every two weeks.

If your cool season lawn* doesn’t receive this type of hydration, it will begin to brown, develop bare spots, expand and crack. Weeds tend to come up in these areas as some of these areas are more tolerant of these conditions than your turf.

According to the University of Missouri Extension Home Lawn Watering Guide , there are many things you can do in addition to watering to help prevent a dry, cracked lawn:

Most experts recommend you water your lawn before 10 a.m. Duration depends on the dryness of the soil and current conditions.

Will the Atkins Lawn Applications still “work” if my soil is dry?
Applications vary, but in general this time of year we are spreading some organics (specialty application customers), treating disease (fungicides) and managing weeds. Summer weeds are better adapted to these conditions and are still growing so they will take up the herbicide we apply as-needed (the guys are spot-spraying weeds now) and should still get control. We do have to watch the afternoon temps though.

If you don’t have time to water your lawn, consider installing an irrigation system. This photo below shows the difference in irrigated grass (right side) vs. non-irrigated grass (left side). See the difference?

To ensure your lawn is in pristine condition, albeit the extreme temperatures, call us at (573) 874-5100 to schedule service with a member our team! We will take a look at your lawn for free and offer recommendations on what you can do to keep your lawn looking healthy all summer long.

* What is a cool season lawn?
“Cool season lawns” are typically comprised of Tall Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass and/or Perennial Rye. They all grow best in cooler climates (Spring and Fall here in Missouri). They often go dormant over the Summer months (turn brown temporarily and then green back up in the early Fall as temps drop and rain comes back).

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Chance of snow this weekend!

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 20:23:00 GMT

We all know Missouri weather is often unpredictable, but snow in the summer? It actually happened in May 2013 when 2-4″ of snow fell in the Ozarks.

While we more than likely won’t get snow in August, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t start making your winter weather plans now. Many people are making “COVID purchases” to help pass the time. You can too with one of these services from Atkins:

Fall is still several weeks away and this heat makes us want to think about cooler temps which is why we’re selling ice melt now!

Our premium performance ice melt comes in an easy to your 10 lb. shaker jug OR a 50 lb. bag (Deep Thaw).

BONUS : it will not harm your lawn, shrubs, concrete, pets or kids.

DOUBLE BONUS: We offer delivery or pick up for your purchase.

How much does the ice melt cost? *

A minimum of $40 is required for delivery for the jugs. Columbia addresses only at this time.

Need a pallet of ice melt? We can help you with that, too! One pallet is $500+ tax if you pick up and $550+ tax if we deliver.

If you’re not quite ready to start your winter prep, no worries! We have many other grounds maintenance and pest programs to carry you through the rest of the year:

No matter what you want done, get prepared now. Call (573) 874-5100 to schedule one of our many services today.

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5 Ways to Survive the 2020 Summer

Thu, 28 May 2020 12:22:00 GMT

Summer is just around the corner and the one thing you can always count on in Missouri in the summer is — nothing . Missouri summers are as unpredictable as our winters. Don’t worry! The team at Atkins is here to help.

What we do know for sure is:

The good news is…we can help you with all of these things and more!

As you prepare for your summer, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Japanese Beetles – They will be back.

Year after year, these pests devastate your beautiful landscape in a hurry. These destructive, bronze-winged emerald green beetles appear in late June and feed for about six weeks then lay eggs for the next season’s crop. They love your roses, linden, grapes, fruit trees and other desirable landscape plants.

Don’t hang pheromone traps!
Many people hang pheromone traps with the intent to capture as many of these hungry beetles as possible, but what typically happens is that these hormone baited traps only ATTRACT thousands more of the beetles into your area from miles away to feed and lay eggs!! If you care for your plants and like your neighbors, you might want to reconsider the use of pheromone traps for these guys.

See our Blog for FAQ’s on these pests!

2. Turf Disease Season is Upon Us

Disease and insect pressures increase this time of year. A couple of the top issues are Brown Patch, a soil-borne fungus that thrives in many of our tall fescue lawns, and white grubs, which are a beetle larvae that feed on the root system of your turf.

As the soil temps rise, the fungus becomes active, especially when the humidity is high and overnight temperatures exceed 65 degrees. Also as the soil temp warms, many C-shaped white grubs move closer to the surface to feed on the roots the turf. Proper mowing and watering practices can help minimize damages caused by these pests. Coupling either issue with heat and drought stress will only make things worse for your lawn, so, water deep and less often and then mow as high as possible and as often as possible. If you see something that doesn’t quite look right on your lawn, give us a call. We’ll come out and take a look for free!

3. Keep the Creepy Crawlers Away

During the summer months fleas, ticks, chiggers and mosquitoes make spending time out in your lawn quite agonizing for your family and your pets. You can treat your pets to keep these pests at bay AND treat your lawn to reduce these pest populations even more!

You may also see critters moving inside the house like ants, spiders, pill bugs and millipedes. Treating around the exterior of your home can help to protect it from this sort of invasion. We offer a variety of programs to meet your needs. Call today to discuss all your pest control options.

4. Irrigation Systems and Drought Management

Natural rainfall is one of the best things for our lawn and plants, but when there’s a drought, keeping our lawn and landscape hydrated can be nearly impossible.

Installing an automated sprinkler system is a great home improvement or business project worth considering. If you’re fortunate to already have one now, it is a good time to evaluate its effectiveness and look at potential water saving options from broken sprinkler heads and leaks to WiFi controllers. During a drought period it is often easy to distinguish which areas of your lawn and landscape are not receiving proper coverage. Bringing in a professional irrigation service contractor may be necessary to make the changes to better help you save water ($$) and your plants.

5. Decontaminate with COVID-19 Disinfectant Cleaning

If anyone at your office partied at the Lake of the Ozarks over Memorial Day weekend, you might want to call Atkins for a COVID-19 disinfectant cleaning – STAT!

As the state slowly starts to reopen, we’re here to help stop the spread of the coronavirus and pleased to continue to offer disinfectant cleaning solutions approved by the EPA and proven to kill the virus. Call today for a free quote for your business. We will come anywhere in the state of Missouri with this service.

We’re here to meet all your needs! Give us a call at (573) 874-5100 or visit our website for more details.

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Mosquitoes are annoying. Here’s what you can do.

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 14:59:00 GMT

It’s no secret — Missouri has mosquitoes and a lot of them. At least we’re not in Louisiana where the mosquito is the state bird!

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation*, Missouri has approximately 50 different species of mosquitoes buzzing around, leaving itchy bumps and spreading diseases.

Every spring and summer, these blood-sucking insects invade our yards and wreak havoc on our outside time.

Due to the health concerns of mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, mosquito abatement or reduction services are becoming more and more popular. This service helps control the mosquito population by using pet-safe mosquito spray for your residential or business lawn. Aside from eliminating that annoying buzz by your ears, driving down your mosquito population also helps lower the risk of mosquito-borne disease.

Can you spot the mosquitoes on these unsuspecting party guests?
Hint: there are three.

Maybe you’re isolated from friends or family right now and all you want to do is curl up in your hammock outside on a nice day. There’s nothing more annoying than swatting away pesky mosquitoes just when you get to a good part.

How can Atkins help me with mosquitoes?

Call us today to ask to get a free quote for our Monthly Mosquito Barrier Spray. We use a truck-mounted power sprayer to treat potential mosquito resting areas. These locations typically include:

Mobile populations of adult mosquitoes are hard to control, so it is best to use a combination of reduction tactics. The mosquito barrier spray service treats the areas where mosquitoes are most likely to rest during daytime hours. Applications are done monthly from April to September.

Protect Your Pets from Mosquito-Borne Disease

Reducing the number of mosquitoes in Harper’s yard reduces the chances of her getting heartworm disease, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes

Will this treatment eliminate mosquitoes from my lawn?
No. In our climate, there is no way to completely eliminate mosquitoes from your lawn, however, this treatment can greatly reduce the number of mosquitoes within the treated area. It won’t keep a mosquito from flying in from down the street, but will provide you with significant relief.

Is the monthly mosquito spray safe for my pets?
Yes. As soon as the treatment has dried, it’s safe for the entire family.

Want to know more about the Atkins Monthly Mosquito service? Give us a call today for a free consultation.

* https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/mosquitoes

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Protect your Pets from Fleas and Ticks

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 20:48:00 GMT

Our pets are like members of our family. When they don’t feel good, we don’t feel good. When they get itchy, we get itchy.

Meet Harper.

Harper loves tennis balls, chasing kids and chewing on sticks. Most importantly, she loves running around her yard.

Harper is happy because her mom and dad signed up for the Atkins Flea & Tick Lawn Treatment to help control these pests on Harper’s lawn. She’s not scratching all the time or itchy due to pesky flea and tick bites.

How does the Atkins flea and tick treatment work?
When you call Atkins to set an appointment, the pest technician uses a truck-mounted sprayer to apply the appropriate amount of pesticide (according to the label) to the entire surface of your lawn and/or shrubbery.

The technician will also spray flower beds next to any structures (house, shed, etc.), along with dog houses, runs or pens. Low shrubs and low-hanging tree branches are also sprayed to ensure we’re covering all areas where fleas and ticks might hide.

How much does the Atkins flea and tick treatment cost?
Estimates are always free! The cost varies based on the size of the area you would like for us to treat.

Is the flea and tick treatment safe for my animals AND my kids?
Yes. Once this application is dry, it is safe to return to the treated area. We do recommend removing all pets, kids, toys and food and water dishes out of the area to be treated.

How long does it take for the flea and tick treatment to dry?
It usually takes about an hour.

What if it rains the same day or the day after you spray my lawn with the treatment?
The fleas and ticks are most affected within the first hour AFTER the application. The residual treatment of the application is minimally affected by rain or an irrigation system (if you have one).

This Spring, rid your lawn of fleas and ticks to keep your pets happy and help keep your home flea and tick free.*

* Spraying your lawn does not guarantee your pet will remain flea and tick free. Treat your animals with flea and tick preventative as recommended by your vet.

A happy dog is a flea and tick free dog. Let us spray your lawn this Spring. Call today for your free quote.

Want more of Harper?
Follow her on Instagram! Follow her on @shouldacalledatkins or @awesome_aussie_harper .

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COVID-19 Disinfectant Cleaning Services Now Available

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 20:42:00 GMT

Since 1925, we’ve served our friends and neighbors through world wars, natural disasters and economic downturns. We have been through it all with you before and we remain strong now .

In an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in Missouri, Atkins Building Services is pleased to offer disinfectant cleaning solutions that are approved by the EPA and proven to kill Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 or SARS-CoV-2:

How do I know which disinfectant cleaning solution to choose?
Depending on your type of business, you may have to follow certain protocols with the cleaners and disinfectants used in the building. Health care is a great example of this. When you call to set up an appointment, we will discuss all options and pick a disinfectant cleaning solution that is the right fit for you.

How are these disinfectant cleaners applied?
Our EPA approved disinfectant solutions can be applied via mop and bucket, sprayers, soaking and fogging (also defined as wet misting).

How often should I disinfect?
All cleaning solutions listed above can be used anytime you feel your environment was compromised.

Should surfaces be cleaned before application?
Yes. To allow for proper disinfection, surfaces should be cleaned before disinfecting to remove residual food or other material to reach the non-porous hard surface prior to application. We also recommend to you clean surfaces after disinfection with water only.

After the disinfectant is applied, how long do I need to remain out of the area?
You should remain out of the area for at least 10 minutes to allow all surfaces to dry. Do not touch or clean any surfaces until dry.

I have a kitchen at my business. Are these disinfectants safe to use in here?
Yes. Each of these cleaners is safe to use on all surfaces, but we recommend putting away smaller items, such as coffee stir sticks, cups, etc.

Will these cleaners leave an odor?
Yes, but they are fresh, pleasant scents of either citrus or floral.

How much does it cost?
For an appointment and to get a quote for your business, please call (573) 874-5100.

As COVID-19 continues to impact our communities, every Atkins employee is doing their part to follow all recommended safety protocols. We will continue to work diligently to keep our community safe through this crisis.

For more information about stopping the spread of COVID-19, please follow all guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

Thank you for your continued support! We appreciate the opportunity to serve you.

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This is a MUST before you buy a home or rental property.

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 18:42:00 GMT

Did you know termite damage costs U.S. property owners more than $5 billion each year and that around 600,000 homes are affected by these pests?

Not everyone likes surprises, so before the deal is done, trust the experts at Atkins to conduct a thorough home termite inspection and provide a report for your client. The last thing you need is for your sale to go south.

What we do.

Our trained termite “detectives” conduct a visual inspection of all accessible areas, concentrating on exposed structural members, door facings, baseboards, window sills, etc.

We’re kind of like the CSI’s of the termite world.

The exterior foundation is also inspected along with areas that are near or have direct contact with soil. Attached structures are included in the inspection and a standard NPMA-33 form is filled out upon completion of the inspection.

Why you need a termite inspection report.

You already know the answer. A home termite inspection is required by most lending institutions before the purchase of a house. Many times, general home inspectors are qualified to perform the termite inspection, but it is better for your client to call Atkins.

We’re kind of a big deal.

Our team of certified technicians has more than 40 years of combined experience in trained termite detection, specifically looking for live termites and the evidence they can leave behind. Also, if termite activity is found, we can offer a solution to fix the problem.

How much does a termite inspection cost?

If the property is within 45 minutes of Columbia, it’s $50. Outside of that? It’s $75-$100.

What to do next.

We have a team of Associate entomologists on staff waiting to hear from you. Call (573) 874-5100 or go online at atkinsinc.com to set up an appointment.

Don’t have termites?

Spring brings all the creepy crawlers out. In addition to termites, fleas, ticks and bed bugs all start to make their presence know.

When you see a bug or something that doesn’t look quite right, give us a call or fill out a form online and we’ll come out free of charge to walk around your home, inside and out. We will offer you the best recommendation based on the type of pests we find.

When it comes to pests, don’t settle for less! You shoulda called Atkins!

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Our Team of Excellent Women

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 18:21:00 GMT

There’s an old saying that says “ it takes a village to raise a child .”

Those of us who are parents can agree that it often requires an entire network of people to come together to achieve a mission or a goal, but this mindset isn’t just about kids anymore. It’s about communities, business and finding ways for people to come together.

Here at Atkins, it takes a team of hard-working and dedicated employees to serve the customers we are proud to call our friends and neighbors.

This week, Atkins is proud to be a supporting sponsor of the 2020 COMO Women of Excellence Awards , and we want to recognize some of the incredible women here at Atkins who get things done !

Vicki – Customer Service

When you call Atkins, there’s a 50% chance Vicki will be the voice on the other line. Vicki is part of the Pest Control Team. She’s been with Atkins since 2017 and has more than 15 years of customer service experience.

Kate – Human Resources Director.

Kate has been the Atkins Human Resources goddess for the last three years.

Human Resources isn’t always an easy job, so why does Kate do what she does?

“Our employees inspire me ,” she said. “ They are dedicated, hard workers who love their jobs and do it with a smile on their face .”

Melanie – Controller

Coordinating all accounting functions for a company may not sound like a lot of fun, but Melanie has been hard at it for almost two years. She’s responsible for managing supplier and customer accounts, including billing and payments, communicating financial information with the owners and division managers and putting out any fire that may come her way. Way to go, Melanie!

Beth – Commercial Business Development Manager

Beth began her career at Atkins in the Fall of 2018 where she worked closely with the managers in the company’s janitorial division assisting with quality control inspections. Now in the Turf & Tree, Irrigation and Pest Control divisions, she spends a lot of her time finding new ways to grow the business.

“Every day is something different, and I LOVE that! ” said Beth. “ Being a small company means I get to wear many hats, so not only do I support the division directors in finding new leads, but I also manage our social media and community outreach efforts.”

Amber , Patty and Danielle – Commercial Cleaning Services

As the largest division of the company in regards to employee count, our Commercial Cleaning Division is lead by three women who know how to go with the flow and make the most out of a sticky situation, literally.

In our Columbia branch, Patty and Danielle are responsible for training and managing their team of employees. In Springfield, we’re proud to have Amber representing the company and helping us grow our business in the Ozarks.

This group of ladies also works with our customers to ensure their expectations are met and their buildings are clean.

Fun fact: Amber has the most organized janitorial closets in her clinics!

One of the things we love to do as a company is get together and celebrate and recognize our employees.

Each Summer and Fall, we host events to recognize employees and show them appreciation for a job well done. At our annual employee chili cook-off, any employee can submit their recipe for a chance to win. Attending employees also win prizes just for showing up!

THANK YOU to all of the excellent women who represent Atkins! We couldn’t do it without you!

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Press Release: Atkins, Inc. Supporting Sponsor of 2020 Women of Excellence Awards

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 21:49:00 GMT

Columbia, MO – Atkins, Inc. is proud to represent the 2020 Women of Excellence Awards as the Supporting Sponsor. Hosted by COMO magazine, this event will be held Feb. 27, 2020, at Kimball Ballroom on the Stephens College campus.

“Supporting community events is something Tom and Linda Atkins have believed in for decades,” said Beth Cowgill, Business Development Manager for Turf & Tree and Pest Control divisions. “We’re excited to be part of an event that recognizes women for their accomplishments in the Columbia community.”

The Women of Excellence awards celebrate exceptional Columbia businesswomen who strive to continuously grow in their professional field through continued education and serving in the community. They also seek to further other women within their professional field through both formal and informal mentorships and helping them connect to other women. The event will honor women in eight categories who strive to grow in their field, mentor other women, and serve in the community.

For more information about the Women of Excellence Awards, visit comomag.com/women-of-excellence .

About Atkins, Inc.
Since 1925, Atkins, Inc. ( www.atkinsinc.com ) is dedicated to exceptional customer service delivered with a sense of respect, friendliness, knowledge and community spirit. Committed to serving mid-Missouri, Atkins promises their customers and neighbors exceptional service and products for Pest Control, Turf & Tree, Irrigation, Commercial Cleaning and more.

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Protect Your Home from 30 Possible Invaders

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 21:20:00 GMT

As Winter subsides and Spring inches closer and closer, many people think ahead to a season of renewal, growth and outdoor activities. While we as human beings are looking ahead to the warmer weather, the insect, rodent and wildlife populations will come out of their long slumber searching for water, food and shelter.

The Atkins Pest Control Team is proud to offer the Total-Trac service for residential customers who like to leave all the work in the hands of the professionals. The Total-Trac is an all-inclusive pest management program that protects your home from 30 possible invaders.

The Total-Trac program consists of :

**Does not cover wildlife, such as possums or raccoons, or bed bugs, but you can request this service for a discounted, additional cost while on the Total-Trac program.

There’s no better way to know every angle of your home is being protected by Atkins Pest Control leaving you to enjoy your home, outdoor activities and entertaining your friends and family comfortably. Give us call to find out more about our Total-Trac Program and all of the other pest control services we have to offer you.

THANK YOU for being a loyal customer. We are always here to answer any questions you might have.

Sean Chase
Director, Pest Control

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Late Fall Fertilizing: Gearing up for Green

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 14:11:00 GMT

Year after year, the weather roller coaster of mid-Missouri always keeps us on our toes. With record heat over the month of September and then an early frost in October, your lawn had some ups and downs.

Cool season lawns have “greened up” nicely for the Fall and the warm season grasses are headed into dormancy. If you seeded your lawn already this Fall, hopefully you will see an increase in overall turf density, as that is the best weed control you could ask for. This increased thickness will make a difference next Spring, too.

With our late Fall lawn applications, we spread or spray a “winterizer” type of fertilizer to help improve upon the color and overall health as we head into the cold winter months. This material adds nutrients to the soil for use now and in the Spring when the turf starts growing again. The cooler temps of the Fall will help reduce the amount of moisture lost from your plants, so watering typically isn’t necessary.

We appreciate your business, and our employees appreciate you!

Our fantastic customers are one of the biggest reasons our team members love working here. If you have any issues or see something questionable in your lawn or landscape, give us a call. We’re here to help! Thank you for your business.

Shaun Henry
Turf & Tree Department Manager
shaun@atkinsinc.com

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The leaves are falling. Now what?

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 15:03:00 GMT

Ah…fall. Cooler temps, bonfires and leaves. Lots and lots of leaves. Eventually, those beautiful leaves fall to the ground, and if you have a lot of trees around your property, you also have a lot of leaves.

Now what?

Do you rake them up or leave them lie?

We polled random people about raking their leaves and this is what they said:

Nothing says FUN like raking all the leaves into a BIG pile and jumping in, but what do the pros at Atkins have to say ?

Turf & Tree Manager Shaun Henry says:

“Chop them up with the mower as often and as long as you can without them beginning to mat down and smother your grass. Blow them or rake them away from the ground when there are too many to chop up. Once they mat down, they can and will kill the grass beneath them.”

Have additional questions about fall lawn care? Call the experts at Atkins. We are your one-stop shop for all things fall.

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Employee Spotlight: Joshua Jackson

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 19:12:00 GMT

Josh Jackson has been the Atkins Special Services Project Coordinator for a the last year and a half. Whether its working on getting the south end zone ready for Mizzou football games or washing windows, Josh and his team are top notch, and our customers know it!

“Josh Jackson came into our facility during a stressful and cumbersome start-up. With minimal direction and oversight, he was able to exceed expectations for our food safety janitorial services.” – Justin Stuart, Aurora Organic Dairy.

As Special Services Project Coordinator, Josh is responsible for receiving customer requests and creating quotes based on what project the customer would like help completing. He also schedules projects and works with his highly trained team to ensure every project is completed to the customers satisfaction.

Prior to Atkins, Josh worked in the food service industry for 14 years. His favorite thing about his job at Atkins is getting to work outside and in many different environments.

“I also enjoy being able to look at what we’ve cleaned or improved and be able to say “Wow! We did that , ” Josh Jackson.

In his spare time, Josh enjoys the outdoors (hiking, biking, fishing), cooking and spending time with his family.

Thanks for all you do for Atkins, Josh!

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Employee Spotlight: Daniel Shields

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 15:23:00 GMT

When he’s not hunting, fishing or spending time with his family, Daniel serves Atkins’ customers as a Turf Specialist.

An employee since 2017, Daniel was recognized recently by a customer for a “fantastic job” with her lawn. Faced with a huge crabgrass and nutsedge issue, Daniel was able to control all of the weeds while maintaining her well-established lawn.

Looking for some new holiday lights for this season? Daniel does that, too!

Thanks for all you do for Atkins, Daniel! Keep up the great work!

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Early Fall Lawn Applications Happening Now

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Happy (almost) Fall, Neighbors!

Although it seems that summer has really flown by, the periodic scorching heat and occasional drought has put some of our lawn and landscape plants through the ringer. Fall temps and moisture are a welcome relief for us. We have seen a fair share of disease, insect, drought and heat-related issues in the area and hope that with the Fall we see a speedy recovery. If you notice anything in your lawn or in your landscape needing attention, please don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. We are here to help however we can!

If you’re one of our current lawn customers, we’re getting ready to apply our early Fall applications. This provides nutrients to help your lawn green back up, improve its overall health and vigor, plus replenish its food supply for the fall. As some of the summer annuals disappear on their own (crabgrass, spurge, foxtail), we continue to treat other persistent weeds, such as dandelions, clover and nutsedge. Watering isn’t necessary, but as drought conditions arise, any watering will certainly help.

Aside from fungal disease and drought damage, it’s also time to keep an eye out for white grubs in the lawn. Grub damage is easily mistaken for drought and/or disease damage. The giveaway is finding turf that pulls up easily in a mat, like a rug. If we find any, we’ll let you know so that you can have us treat them to keep from losing anymore grass.

Be sure to mow as often as you possibly can with a sharp blade to reduce stress on the grass. Make plans to aerate and/or seed as needed to help the lawn fill back in for the Fall and the 2020 Spring.

See something, say something!
If you ever notice anything on your property that “just doesn’t quite look right,” let us know and we can check it out for you.

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Identifying Slime Mold

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 21:29:00 GMT

What the heck is that?

White spray paint? Not hardly.

Snow in the summer time? We’re not in Colorado.

Thousands of spider eggs? I sure hope not!?!

What the heck is that on those blades of grass?

Slime mold.

When the weather is hot, humid and there’s been as much rain as we’ve had, your yard becomes a susceptible host for a variety things, including soil-borne fungi like slime mold.

Shoulda called Atkins? Only if you have the weeds in the background like this yard!

Thankfully, as the ground dries up, conditions like slime mold generally go away on their own.

Still think you’ve got a problem? Give us a call today and we’ll come out and take a look.

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Employee Spotlight: Bryan Andrews

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 19:08:00 GMT

Congratulations, Bryan, on your 11th anniversary with Atkins! ! If you’ve had any tree work done around your home or business, you may have seen him around.

Bryan has more than 20 years of experience in the “green” industry with positions related to turf management, landscaping, tree and shrub care, viticulture, holiday lighting, grounds maintenance and customer service. He has a passion for detail, creativity, a great work ethic and is a natural leader.

Q: What’s your title at Atkins, Inc.?
A: I’m an arborist.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
A: It really depends on the season. This time of year, I stay busy servicing our client’s trees and shrubs. Currently, I am treating them for insect and disease issues.

Q: What are some of the different roles you’ve had throughout your 11 years with the company?
A: I’ve had many roles within the company except for our pest and commercial cleaning services. I am so thankful for the experiences and knowledge I have acquired over the years.

Q: What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
A: Playing golf.

Q: If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
A: I would like to learn to fly a military fighter jet.

Thank you, Bryan, for everything you do for Atkins and our customers!

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Japanese Beetles: The Emerald Green Epidemic

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 14:09:00 GMT

The first day of summer is rapidly approaching, and with that comes BBQ’s, swimming and basking in the sun. Ahhhh !

It also brings heat, humidity and bugs , specifically the Japanese Beetle. Ugh !

Have you ever had a run in with these bad bugs? If so, you have first-hand experience on the amount of damage they can do to the landscape around your yard.

These bronze-winged, emerald green pests appear in late June and feed for about six months. Once they find a cozy home, they lay eggs in preparation for next season’s crops. They love your beautiful roses, linden and fruit trees and many other desirable landscape plants.

Many times during the peak of infestation, people hang pheromone traps with the best intention of capturing as many of these hungry beetles as possible.

Unfortunately, what typically happens is these hormone-baited traps only draw hundreds if not thousands more of the beetles into your area from miles away to feed and lay eggs. If you care for your plants and like your neighbors, you might want to reconsider using these traps.

There are a few ways to get rid of Japanese beetles without attracting more to the area and causing additional damage to your trees and shrubs. Contact us today for details! 573-874-5100 .

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Top 5 Reasons to Hire a Commercial Cleaning Team

Tue, 28 May 2019 15:46:00 GMT

Does your business need a commercial cleaning team? It can benefit you in more ways than you might realize. Here are some of the best parts of outsourcing cleaning:

From manufacturing to health care, we do it all! There’s no job too big or too small. You know you’ve been thinking about it for a while. Call us today at 573-874-5100 for your free estimate.

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Identifying Bed Bugs In Hotels And Motels

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 13:45:00 GMT

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5 Ways You Can Take Your Yard from Dull to Daydream

Wed, 10 May 2017 16:57:00 GMT

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Tree Care 101: What to Expect in The Coming Months

Tue, 14 Mar 2017 17:09:00 GMT

Contrary to popular belief, a severe (cold) winter does not greatly reduce the insect population, but an early spring can greatly increase their numbers. High average temps in early spring can bring pests out of their winter hibernation early which allows them to complete more life cycles. Spider mite numbers alone can increase exponentially. We have spotted leaf miners already feeding on boxwood, so we’re keeping a very close eye on things for our clients.

Bacterial and fungal disease issues will also be on the rise. When spring moisture collides with rising temperatures, disease pathogens multiply quickly. Add windy conditions to that and the disease cycle becomes an epidemic. Fire Blight (bacterial) and Rust (fungal) are two of the early problems that we encounter, but all types of blight-type disease infections are possible with this abnormal weather.

It’s also that time of year for landscape beautification. Pruning your trees and shrubs is very important for disease and insect prevention and for aesthetically pleasing growth and flowering. Mulch is also very important for water retention, organic material addition and insulation for good feeder root development plus it gives instant gratification to your outdoor area.

We are in full swing and looking forward to a great growing season. Hopefully Mother Nature is kind to us this year! Help us help you with any plant or grounds maintenance concerns by keeping a close eye on your property and notifying us with any abnormalities. We’re more than happy to come out, look things over and give any recommendations needed.

Fun Tree Facts:

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Atkins How-to: Crabgrass and PreEmergents

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 17:20:00 GMT

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5 Easy Steps to Healthier Ornamental Trees and Shrubs This Spring

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 17:26:00 GMT

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A Thank You from Atkins!

Tue, 27 Dec 2016 17:31:00 GMT

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Surprising Facts About the Mid Missouri Fall Grub Population

Thu, 01 Sep 2016 17:34:00 GMT

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Watering New Grass Seed: How Much To Water and Care Tips

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 18:00:00 GMT

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Seeding

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 17:45:00 GMT

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The Beetle Epidemic: What You Can Do About Japanese Beetles

Fri, 15 Jul 2016 18:25:00 GMT

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Your Summer Survival Kit from Atkins Inc.

Fri, 15 Jul 2016 18:17:00 GMT

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Tom Atkins Feature in Prime Magazine!

Thu, 30 Jun 2016 18:27:00 GMT

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Brown Patch Season: Will Your Lawn Be Effected?

Thu, 09 Jun 2016 18:36:00 GMT

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April Showers Bring May Flowers, Weeds, and Pests

Thu, 28 Apr 2016 19:17:00 GMT

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Winter Woes; Plant Care for the Winter

Mon, 01 Feb 2016 18:39:00 GMT

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Utility in Commercial Cleaning

Mon, 18 Jan 2016 18:43:00 GMT

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Atkins Goes Green in our Communities

Fri, 11 Dec 2015 00:54:00 GMT

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Winter is Upon Us

Thu, 19 Nov 2015 19:01:00 GMT

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Fall Turf Tips

Tue, 20 Oct 2015 19:05:00 GMT

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Attack of the Japanese Beetles

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:09:00 GMT

Back in July, there were a lot of Japanese beetle sightings. They hatch out of the lawn and swarm around looking for foliage to eat. Once these critters start zipping around your landscape, they can completely defoliate a tree in two days or less with their voracious appetites. We can treat your trees, shrubs, bushes, and roses once you start seeing activity. You might also want to think about scheduling a lawn treatment to prevent the larvae from hatching.

Whatever you do, do not hang a pheremone trap from the tree. Instead of solving the problem, the trap will actually just invite more beetles to join the leafy buffet that is your landscape!

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Cicada-portabello quiche?!

Thu, 26 May 2011 19:08:00 GMT

We have had a ton of phone calls about the 13-year cicadas that have begun emerging from the ground in mass quantities. On Sunday, the Columbia Daily Tribune ran an excellent article about it.

In about a week, these little fellas will move up into the treetops and while you’ll probably still hear them singing, you won’t see them crawling all over everything. The bottom line is they won’t hurt you or your family, and don’t pose a threat to your established trees. Smaller trees may experience a bit of damage, but it’s better to feed those trees than try to treat the cicadas themselves with a pesticide. So, take a deep breath and try to appreciate this freaky weirdness for what it truly is…An incredible miracle of nature!

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