Let’s talk about a pesky problem that’s been bugging me (and probably you too): ticks in the yard! Yuck, ticks!!
Picture this: you’re enjoying a sunny day in your garden when, suddenly, you feel that dreaded itch. Yup, you’ve got a tick hitching a ride (talk about a buzzkill!). And they are the absolute worst for pets, too.
I swear, as soon as the weather gets nicer, my dog Luna becomes like a magnet for ticks. What’s even worse is that those pest-repelling collars don’t seem to work very well, either.
That’s why I decided to look for a way to banish these tiny terrors from my yard once and for all. And guess what? I’ve uncovered some seriously fun and effective ways to kick those ticks to the curb.
Sure, I still stumble upon a tick or two, but there were way less of these buggers once I started using these tricks for banishing ticks!
1. Nematodes To The Rescue
First, consider getting help from a friend: nematodes!
These slippery creatures can tackle a bunch of pests lurking in your garden, from pesky slugs to those dreaded lawn grubs. I couldn’t believe it before I saw it all in my own backyard!
Nematodes actually feed on tick larvae like it’s their favorite snack, thus stopping them from hatching and causing a full-blown infestation. I know it sounds gross; but hey, if it works, why not give it a try?
Now, you can snag these helpful nematodes online, like this awesome nematode control concentrate I found on Walmart’s online shop.
Bonus: they’re totally safe for us humans, our pets, and even those precious pollinators buzzing around.
2. Mow Your Way To A Tick-Free Lawn
Mowing your lawn can be tiresome (I know the pain), but keeping up with lawn care is crucial, especially when tick season rolls around in spring.
Trust me when I say: frequent mowing and a well-manicured landscape are your best bets for keeping ticks from your yard!
By staying on top of your lawn maintenance game, you’re not just keeping your yard looking pristine – you’re also reducing tick activity and minimizing the risk of disease transmission.
So, go ahead, mow that lawn and enjoy the great outdoors worry-free!
If you are not up to mowing your lawn, then you might like: 11 No-Mow Lawn Alternatives Ideal For Gardens
3. Zap Ticks Away With A Tick Repellent
When it comes to keeping ticks at bay, a little tick repellent can go a long way. Opt for a repellent containing 20% to 30% DEET or 20% Picaridin for effective results.
If you’re leaning towards a more au naturel approach, essential oils like cedar, lemongrass, peppermint, and lemon eucalyptus might help.
Sure, they work, but keep in mind they may not last as long as DEET or Picaridin (DEET honestly saved my life). Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and reapply as needed.
This might be helpful: 8 Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Voles From Your Lawn And Garden
4. Tick-Proof Your Territory
I was all for lush wildlife gardens and vibrant borders, but what I didn’t consider is that ticks love these cozy hideouts too.
If you live in a tick-prone area, it would be better to create a dry, hostile border; maybe something like a 3-foot barrier made of wood chips or gravel lining the perimeter of your yard to act as a no-go zone for ticks.
Since ticks thrive in cool, moist areas, trimming back those bushes and trees to let more sunlight in creates a less hospitable environment for them.
And hey, if you want to up your game, consider putting up a fence around your backyard tall enough to deter deer and other critters that carry ticks. Good strategy, right?
Related: These Natural Deer Repellents Are Already Sitting In Your Kitchen Cabinet
5. Use Powerful Pesticides If Nothing Else Works
While we often prefer natural methods, sometimes dealing with a tick infestation calls for a tougher approach. That’s where chemical control comes in handy, especially for those stubborn tick populations.
For effective tick control, consider using a permethrin spray, like this one available on Amazon, and apply it directly to affected areas.
But remember, safety first! Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and gear up with protective clothing and a mask when handling pesticides.
And just like when tackling garden pests without harming plants, it’s crucial to ensure that the pesticide you’re using won’t harm your beloved greenery (we don’t want them to suffer because of ticks like we do).
Personally, I’ve tried everything from natural repellents to chemical solutions in my yard. Now, with my outdoor space free from these pesky critters, I’m curious: what strategies do you think will work in your yard?
I suggest you try the natural methods of getting rid of ticks first, and if they don’t work, bring out the big guns (a.k.a pesticides and repellents!).