In your garden, the presence of ticks can represent a constant nuisance and a health risk. This is why it is essential to adopt the right methods to prevent an infestation.
Experts recommend 5 effective strategies to eliminate ticks and keep your green space safe.
Find out how to protect your garden and yourself from these annoying pests.
Use tick repellent
A good starting point for eliminating ticks in your yard is to use a tick repellent. Repellents based on DEET at 20%-30% or Picaridin at 20% are very effective.
However, if you prefer a more natural option, essential oils like that of cedar, citronella, peppermint e lemon eucalyptus they can also keep ticks at bay.
Remember that natural repellents need to be applied more frequently.
Use chemical pesticides
If the tick infestation is significant, it may be necessary to resort to chemical pesticides. A permethrin-based spray can be especially effective.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear protective clothing, such as gloves, a mask, and long-sleeved clothing, to protect yourself during application.
Introduce beneficial nematodes
I beneficial nematodes they are small microscopic worms that feed on tick larvae, preventing them from maturing and spreading.
These nematodes are safe for humans, pets and pollinators. You can purchase beneficial nematode concentrates online and apply them to affected areas of your garden.
Creates a hostile barrier
Ticks thrive in moist, shaded environments. To reduce their presence, you can create a hostile barrier around your garden using materials such as stones, gravel or wood chips.
Such dry, sun-exposed barriers will make it difficult for ticks to pass through. Also, consider installing a fence to keep out animals such as deer that can carry ticks.
Mow the lawn frequently
Keeping your lawn well-groomed is essential to prevent the invasion of ticks. Mow your grass regularly to minimize hidden areas where ticks can thrive.
This method, combined with careful landscape management, significantly reduces the risk of infestation.
How to stop the spread of ticks?
Ticks spread by attaching to hosts such as wild mammals (squirrels, raccoons, foxes and rodents).
To prevent their access to your garden, use fences and natural deterrents.
Leave areas of short grass or hostile barriers with soil or wood chips to prevent ticks from moving from tall grass to areas of the yard you use frequently.
When working to eliminate ticks, it is important to wear the right clothing such as long pants, thick socks, gloves and a long-sleeved shirt.
If you suspect ticks in your garden, keep children and pets away, and check under pets’ fur for any attached ticks, taking anyone who has suffered a bite to a doctor or vet for safe removal.