Bugs and other pests come with the territory when you’re outside, but some of them can be dangerous to your landscaping and to you and your pets. If you’re worried about pests in your landscaping, talk to your landscaper about things you can do to reduce the risk of an infestation. Often, choosing plants strategically and keeping your landscaping well maintained are good first steps. These tips will also help.
Pick Plants That Repel Pests
Although plants often make pests interested in your landscaping, some kinds of plants help to drive them away. Marigolds are ideal for keeping aphids, mosquitoes, and rabbits away from your yard, while chrysanthemums help to keep roaches, fleas, ticks, and ants away. Geraniums drive away mosquitoes and beetles. Rosemary, lavender, and basil all help to deter mosquitoes and flies from your property. Plant some of these natural insect repellants around the periphery of your property and near your doorways and vegetable garden.
Reconsider Your Birdbath and Bird-feeder
Many homeowners enjoy attracting birds to their yards with birdbaths and bird-feeders, and many believe these landscaping features are good for repelling pests, since birds eat bugs. However, a birdbath is a standing water source that attracts lots of mosquitoes, while mice and rats are also attracted to bird-feeders. Not only do the rodents bring in the fleas and ticks that they carry, but they also attract snakes to your property. If you do install a birdbath, replace the water daily. If you have a bird-feeder, keep it away from your home and store the seed inside if you can.
Limit the Mulch
Mulch is common in landscaping, but it can also attract a variety of pests to your yard. If you decide to mulch, do so in small amounts, and keep it as far away from your home as possible. An even better solution is to discuss mulch alternatives with your landscaper.
Complete Landscaping can help you come up with a plan for keeping pests away from your property while making your landscaping look its best. To reach our landscaping team in Tucson, call us at (520) 323-8918.