It starts with a pesky itch. The next thing you know, you’re covered in small, red bumps and find yourself picking off fleas and ticks what feels like every few moments.
Make no mistake, they’re more than a nuisance. According to the CDC, fleas carry a host of illnesses such as Cat Scratch Disease, Typhus, and even variations of Plague!
If you’re ready to reclaim your yard, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’re breaking down some essential ways to handle an infestation of fleas and ticks. Be sure to read before it’s too late!
Timing is Everything
Is there anything better than those first few hints of spring? The gentle, warm winds followed by cool evenings. It’s enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face…including pests, unfortunately.
Spring is the beginning of lawn pest season, with most eggs hatching around mid to late spring. Therefore, you’ll want to handle proper yard hygiene as early in the season as possible, typically around March or April at the absolute latest.
This is also the perfect time to call in pest services, like Heartland Turf & Landscape, as they can take care of any nests and eggs before they become a full-blown infestation.
By the time summer rolls around, there’s a good chance you’re sharing your lawn with a few thousand of the world’s most annoying neighbors. The sooner you tackle your preventative care, the better.
Taking Care of Your Lawn
Of course, basic prevention isn’t always enough to knock out any problems. You’ll still have some nasty little bugs wanting to take up residence in your yard, even if you spray. Fortunately, some quality landscaping tips can help you keep your yard under control.
For starters, make sure you’re mowing your lawn often. Fleas and ticks both love outdoor areas with long, luscious grass, as it makes for the perfect breeding ground.
It’s also crucial that you spray your lawn after it rains, as pests congregate in warm, moist areas.
If you’re in an area with plenty of wildlife, such as deer, possums, raccoons, or rats and mice, consider installing a fence along your property. Critters are an essential part of the ecosystem, but allowing them to feed on grass close to your home puts your family and pets at risk.
Why Hire Pest Control Specialists?
If you’re someone who takes pride in your landscaping abilities, the notion of someone coming in and spraying chemicals all over your grass might not seem too appealing.
Rest assured, pest services use eco-safe sprays that won’t harm your pets.
By the same token, heading to your local hardware store and picking up some spray doesn’t guarantee those same results. Plus, the sprays you’re purchasing in-store likely aren’t as strong as what a pest control specialist can provide.
At the end of the day, it’s best to let a pest control company do what they do best. If you have any special lawn care needs, just let your specialist know beforehand, and they’ll accommodate your requests.
Don’t Let Pests Get the Best of You
Fleas and ticks are sneaky, destructive little beasts. By taking preventative measures early on in the spring, and by allowing lawn care specialists to knock out any potential problems, you and your loved ones are sure to have a wonderful summer.
And if you’re concerned about a bite, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local physician.
For more tips on keeping your lawn in great shape, be sure to check out the rest of our blog content!