In 2024, tick control for lawns should be a top priority for homeowners across the United States. The reason? Ticks aren’t just a nuisance, they can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis.
With climate change causing warmer temperatures and longer summers, the tick population is expected to surge, increasing the risk of tick-borne illnesses.
Protecting your home and lawn from these pests is crucial for safeguarding your family’s health. While we have covered how to get rid of ticks in your home in a previous blog post, today we will specifically focus on lawns and backyards.
Types Of Ticks Found In Lawns
Ticks are small, parasitic arachnids commonly found in grassy areas like lawns. There are several species of ticks known to infest lawns, each with unique characteristics, habitat preferences, and potential health risks. Here are some common types of ticks found in lawns:
- Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis): Also known as the deer tick, it is widespread in the eastern and southeastern United States including Tennessee. This species can be as small as a sesame seed and has black legs.
- American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis): Widespread across North America, it is commonly found in suburban and rural areas. This tick prefers open fields, yards, and grasslands. It can carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum): These are found in the southeastern United States. They mostly prefer wooded areas but can also infest lawns and parks.
- Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus): Found worldwide, this species is primarily associated with dogs but can infest lawns and yards. They can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
To know more about these species and other types of ticks in detail, you can read our guide: 7 Different Types Of Ticks Found In Tennessee
Lawn Maintenance for Tick Control
Now that you know about the types of ticks that can invade your lawn, it’s time to get into the core of our guide. Here are some tips that you can keep in mind:
Mow and Trim Grass Regularly:
Grass grows fast, especially in summer, and the larger your lawn, the more chances that ticks are thriving. Trimming your grass regularly can help to reduce the number of ticks in your yard. Ticks like to live in tall grass and weeds, so keeping your grass short and well-trimmed will make it less hospitable to them. When you mow, be sure to mow close to the ground and remove all grass clippings. You should also trim any weeds or tall grasses around your home.
Remove Leaf Litter and Debris:
Leaf litter and debris provide a perfect hiding place for ticks, so it is important to remove them from your yard. Rake up leaves and debris regularly, and dispose of them in a sealed container. You should also remove any woodpiles or other objects that could provide shelter for ticks.
Create a Tick-Free Zone Around the Home:
Creating a tick-free zone around your home can help reduce the likelihood of ticks coming into contact with you and your family. To create a tick-free zone, clear away any vegetation around your home, including grass, weeds, and shrubs. You should also create a barrier between your yard and any wooded areas.
Use Mulch or Gravel in Landscaping:
Using mulch or gravel in landscaping can help to reduce the number of ticks in your yard. Mulch and gravel help to keep the soil moist and cool, which makes it less hospitable to ticks. They also help prevent weeds from growing, which can provide shelter for ticks.
By following these tips, you can help reduce the number of ticks in your yard and make it a safer place for you and your family to enjoy.
Tick Control Products and Methods
Lawn maintenance techniques can help you keep your yard tidy, but might not be enough to eliminate ticks. For more effective results you can use a wide range of products, including natural and chemical.
Chemical Tick Control For Lawns
A fast and effective way to get rid of ticks in your lawn is by using chemicals. You can apply these products directly on your lawn. There are also sprays you can use for your skin and clothes. They work by killing ticks on contact or by repelling them. Some chemical tick control products also contain ingredients that kill or repel mosquitoes, fleas, and other pests.
There are a variety of different chemical tick control products available on the market. Some of the most common active ingredients include permethrin, DEET, and picaridin.
Note: Though chemical tick control products can be effective in preventing tick bites, it is important to use these products according to the directions on the label. Some chemical tick control products can be harmful if they are not used properly.
To learn more about tick sprays, check out our blog post: 5 Tick Sprays for Your Yard In 2024 That Are Safe & Effective
Natural Tick Control Methods
If you do not want to employ chemical treatments on your lawn, there are some natural repellents too. For example, certain plants or powders have a strong odor that repels ticks and other types of pests such as cockroaches and termites.
- Using beneficial nematodes – These are microscopic worms that parasitize and kill ticks in their larval and nymphal stages.
- Applying diatomaceous earth – This natural product is made from crushed fossils and can dehydrate and kill ticks.
- Planting tick-repelling plants like lavender, garlic, mint, or chrysanthemums around the perimeter of your yard.
- Use essential oils like geranium, rosemary, or lemongrass oils which have tick-repelling properties when sprayed around the lawn.
How To Protect Yourself From Ticks
There are a number of things you can do to control ticks around your home and property. These measures include:
Wear protective clothing:
When working outdoors, wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. Tuck your pants into your socks and wear a hat, this can protect you from the heat too.
Use insect repellent: Use an insect repellent that contains 20% or more DEET. Reapply the repellent according to the directions on the label.
Check for ticks: After spending time outside, check yourself for ticks. Pay special attention to your scalp, neck, armpits, and groin.
Remove ticks promptly: If you find a tick on your body, remove it immediately using a pair of fine-tipped tweezers. Get ahold of the tick close to the skin and pull it straight out without twisting or crushing it.
Clean your clothes and gear: After spending time outdoors, wash your clothes and gear in hot water. This will kill any ticks that may be present.
Trust The Experts For Lawn Tick Control
Keep your lawn free from ticks and enjoy a safe, pest-free outdoor space with Jamison Pest and Lawn. Our team uses advanced technology and eco-friendly methods to get rid of ticks and protect your family. With a focus on sustainable tick control services for lawns, we prioritize the health of your lawn and the environment. Don’t let ticks invade your space, choose Jamison Pest and Lawn for a tick-free lawn. Call us at (901) 452-1505 for a complimentary consultation and take the first step towards a tick-free lawn.
