Pest Library
Millipedes
Millipedes show up in huge numbers around Southwest Florida homes during the rainy season, typically mid-May through mid-September, often turning up in droves near foundations, garages, and patios after a heavy rain. They aren't a direct threat to people or pets, but large numbers invading a home or patio are a serious nuisance, and some species can release a mild irritant if handled. Millipedes are drawn to moisture and decaying organic matter, which is plentiful in Florida landscaping.
About Millipedes
Millipedes show up in huge numbers around Southwest Florida homes during the rainy season, typically mid-May through mid-September, often turning up in droves near foundations, garages, and patios after a heavy rain. They aren't a direct threat to people or pets, but large numbers invading a home or patio are a serious nuisance, and some species can release a mild irritant if handled. Millipedes are drawn to moisture and decaying organic matter, which is plentiful in Florida landscaping.
Signs of Millipedes Infestation
- Large numbers of millipedes near foundations, garages, or patios, especially after rain
- Millipedes curled into tight coils when disturbed (a defensive behavior)
- Millipede activity concentrated in mulch beds, under leaf litter, or near damp landscaping
- Dead millipedes accumulating along baseboards or thresholds after wandering indoors
Our Treatment Approach
We apply a liquid treatment to your yard during their active months, covering the foundation wall and extending out 20 feet, to deter adult millipedes from getting inside your home. Each application controls 75–80% of the active millipede population at the time we treat, so we apply it every six weeks while they're active to keep numbers down through the season. See our millipede control service page for full details.
Ready to get rid of millipedes for good? See our millipede control page for full details.
Prevention Tips
- Clear leaf litter, mulch buildup, and damp organic debris away from your foundation
- Make sure gutters and downspouts direct water away from the house
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundation cracks that millipedes can wander through
- Keep landscaping beds from sitting directly against exterior walls
- Schedule treatment ahead of the rainy season (mid-May through mid-September) rather than after activity spikes
Millipedes FAQs
Are millipedes dangerous?
Millipedes aren't a direct threat to people or pets, but large numbers invading a home or patio are a serious nuisance, and some species can release a mild irritant if handled.
When are millipedes the biggest problem in Southwest Florida?
Millipedes are most active during the rainy season, typically mid-May through mid-September, when you'll often see large numbers near foundations, garages, and patios after heavy rain.
Will one treatment get rid of all the millipedes?
Each application controls about 75–80% of the active millipede population at that time, which is why we treat every six weeks during their active season to keep numbers down consistently.