Business Details
44 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Lawn & Shrub Care in Auburndale
Since 1982, Sunshine Spray Service has been a family-owned and operated leader in lawn and shrub care across Polk County, Florida. Founded by Karen Sykes, a Florida State Certified Pest Control Operator, we specialize in customized lawn fertilization, weed control, and pest management solutions tailored to residential and commercial properties. Backed by 65 years of combined industry expertise, our team delivers quarterly treatment programs using premium-grade pesticides and fertilizers to ensure long-term lawn health.We prioritize customer satisfaction through transparent, contract-free service, free estimates, and a guarantee that covers sod web worms, chinch bugs, and molecrickets between scheduled treatments. Our commitment to environmental responsibility and continuous education ensures our clients receive cutting-edge, sustainable care for their landscapes.
Services
Lawn Fertilization
Weed Control
Pest Management
Soil Testing
pH Correction
Yellow Jacket Removal
Fungus Treatments
Roundup Services
Ornamental Treatment
Sod Installation
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1982 with 65+ years of combined lawn care expertise.
- Owner holds Florida State Certified Pest Control Operator credentials.
- Quarterly treatment programs with between-visit guarantees for pests.
- Customized fertilizer blends adjusted for seasonal and lawn-specific needs.
- Contract-free service prioritizing customer satisfaction over turnover.
What people say
Top 3 best-looking yards
Knowledgeable and responsive
No ants or stinging nettles
Denser, greener lawns
Trusted for 24 years
Services
Lawn Fertilization
Custom-blended fertilizers deliver essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and iron tailored to seasonal needs. Our high-volume spray system ensures even application for sustained color and density. Adjustments are made quarterly to address environmental stressors and promote root development.
Weed Control
Broadleaf weed herbicides are applied in spring and fall, with free spot treatments during summer. We target invasive species using selective chemicals to protect grass health while eliminating unwanted growth for cleaner, more attractive lawns.
Pest Management
Quarterly treatments prevent and control pests like chinch bugs, sod web worms, and molecrickets. Our guaranteed program includes between-visit monitoring and rapid response to infestations, ensuring minimal lawn damage using EPA-registered pesticides.
Soil Testing
We assess soil pH and nutrient levels to identify imbalances affecting lawn health. Corrective treatments adjust acidity and optimize fertilizer efficiency, creating ideal conditions for strong root systems and resilient turf growth.
Yellow Jacket Removal
Professional eradication of yellow jacket nests using targeted insecticides applied at dusk for maximum effectiveness. We prioritize safety for families and pets while eliminating nuisance pests from lawns and landscaped areas.
People
Karen Sykes
Business Owner
Karen founded Sunshine Spray Service in 1982 and became sole owner in 1997. Certified in pest control, she focuses on personalized service, ensuring every customer feels valued. She resides in Polk County and manages operations alongside her son Jay.
Jay Sykes
Manager
Jay joined Sunshine Spray Service in 1997 as a technician and advanced to manager. With decades of experience in Polk County's lawn care industry, he oversees daily operations, client relations, and technical training for the field team.
Frank Town
Senior Technician
Frank has served as Senior Technician since 2009, applying his expertise in lawn treatments. He resides in Ft. Meade with his wife Jennifer and coaches youth football, reflecting his community-focused values and hands-on approach to lawn care.
Questions
Do you offer one-time lawn treatments?
Yes, while we recommend our quarterly program, we also provide individual sprays and spot treatments for specific needs.
What areas do you service?
We cover Polk County and surrounding areas including Auburndale, Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Haines City.
How are fertilizer blends determined?
Our custom blends adjust nitrogen, iron, potassium, and minor elements based on seasonal needs and turf requirements.
Are your treatments environmentally friendly?
We prioritize sustainable practices, using EPA-approved products at legal rates to prevent resistance and environmental impact.
What pests do you guarantee control for?
Our guarantee covers sod web worms, chinch bugs, and molecrickets between scheduled quarterly treatments.
