Ticks are a disgusting but inevitable reality of warm summer days. With many homeowners now wary of the pesticides and topical treatments typically used to deter these disease-bearing pests, you might be looking for a more natural route. These five organic tick control methods are simple solutions for making your yard less hospitable to these little suckers.
1. Cut That Grass
Ticks like damp, shade, and easy access points to leap onto unsuspecting hosts. Neglected turf grass is prime tick territory. Make sure you mow your grass regularly or have a professional do it for you.
2. Trim Those Trees
Did you know that ticks will also drop down from low-hanging branches? Use your tree trimmers to maximize your lawn’s sun exposure and minimize tick drop zones. Tidy up bushes, hedges, and trees. Make sure to pay special attention to landscaping around play areas as well.
3. Pick Up Those Leaves
Piles of lawn debris invite ticks in two ways. First, damp and dark piles make great hiding places for lurking ticks. Second, they invite chipmunks, rabbits, voles and other common tick hosts to make burrows in your yard. Get rid of those leaf and brush piles, even if they seem out of the way and harmless.
4. Spread That Earth
Diatomaceous earth, that is. Diatomaceous earth, or DE, is a powder made from fossilized marine life called phytoplankton. It’s harmless to humans and pets but cuts up and desiccates pests like ticks. Because it can harm beneficial insects as well, DE should only be used in the case of infestations and on known tick nest sites.
5. Use Those Worms
Beneficial nematodes are microscopic, worm-like creatures that live in the soil. Many species feed on the larvae of pest insects like ticks. You can purchase nematodes from specialty garden suppliers online. Make sure you choose a variety that’s known to consume tick larvae.
Remember that nothing can replace a good quality, topical insect repellent. Look for all-natural repellents with ingredients like neem, essential oils and garlic oil to protect your family and pets from summer’s most unwelcome visitors.
Call the Professionals!
Need some extra help with your tick control issues? Call the professionals at Elements Lawn and Pest for a quote today!