Tick Control: Best Practices for Your Home and Garden

Tick Control: Best Practices for Your Home and Garden

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Control Practices

How can you identify the types of ticks commonly found in your area?

This guide will provide best practices for protection from tick-borne illnesses around your home and garden and your family’s health.

Tick Control: Yard Protection Tips

Living in an environment that is attractive to ticks puts your home and family at risk for tick-borne illnesses. Taking measures to reduce tick populations around your home can greatly reduce the chances of tick bites and associated diseases.

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Reduce the Tick Population with Lawn Care

  • Mow the lawn often.

  • Keep grass short and swept away from your home and garden areas.

  • Use an insect repellent with DEET on clothing and exposed skin.

  • Remove leaf litter, brush and tall grasses from your yard.

  • Get rid of harborage sites for rodents and other wild animals.

  • Edge the lawn regularly.

Prevent Ticks from Entering Your Home

Ticks can hitch a ride indoors on animals and humans. Following these tips can help reduce the chances of this happening:

  • Keep grass and weeds trimmed and away from your home.

  • Inspect pets and yourself after coming inside.

  • Wash and dry clothes immediately after outdoors activities.

  • Check furniture, beds, and bedding for ticks.

  • Vacuum carpets and mattresses regularly.

  • Use a pesticide according to the directions on the label.

  • Install door sweeps at all entry points.

Tick Prevention for Health

Being aware of tick habitat helps to avoid them. Always wear protective clothing when outdoors in areas where ticks are present. Clothings should include:

  • A long-sleeved shirt and pants tucked into boots or socks

  • Light-colored clothing (to spot ticks easier)

  • Long gloves to protect hands and forearms

  • A hat to protect your head, ears, and neck

Additionally, use repellents that contain DEET with caution. Always be sure to read and follow the instructions on the label.

By following these tick control tips, you can reduce the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses in your home and garden. Taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your home can pay off in the long-run and make for a healthier living environment.