Your backyard could be harboring more pests than you think, and there are easy landscaping changes you can make that will discourage bugs, rodents and other critters from setting up shop on your property. Once you have discovered an infestation in your home, it may be time to call a pest exterminator, but consider these preventative steps that may stop unwanted creatures from making into your house or yard in the first place.
Clean up natural hiding spots
One of the best ways to keep rodents and other creatures from getting comfortable in your yard is to remove the sort of habitat they might need to survive. When it comes to mice, rats and other small mammals, protection from areal predators is critical. Without low-lying bushes, brush piles or other places to hide, these pests may not feel comfortable in your yard, and move on before ever trying to infiltrate your house.
By cleaning up old leaf-litter and any other places that might make a good hiding spot, you can discourage all sorts of creatures from finding a home in on your property. Even bugs like ticks or fleas need cover, and a well-kept, clean backyard may have no place for unwanted animal visitors.
Remove any standing water
Many species of insects - especially mosquitos - thrive wherever there is a body of water. This could be a small backyard pond or just a large puddle. Bugs will breed in stagnant water, exacerbating an infestation.
Find ways to remove standing water from your yard. This may mean filling in divots that collect rain water, or even parting ways with an old birdbath. Either way, this will force bugs to breed elsewhere.
Consider flushing bugs away
The DIY Network reported that for bugs that may burrow underground like ants or beetles, a bucket of soapy water will do the trick. If an area of grass shows signs of an infestation, taking matters into your own hands can either serve to adequately diagnosis the problem or even eliminate it entirely.
The site stated that pouring a bucket of water mixed with a little bit of dish detergent will force bugs up from beneath the surface. In this way, you may be able to force these critters from their homes for good, but at the very least you can better identify the problem and give a professional exterminator more accurate intel.
Bring in natural exterminators
Unchecked pests can be a big problem, but leveraging nature to do your dirty work is a great hands-off solution. Planet Natural found that one of the best solutions to a pest problem is to bring in a predator.
When it comes to rodents like mice, a plastic owl or other predatory bird may be helpful for scaring off pests. Otherwise, homeowners may even consider getting a pet cat to bring into the fold. As for eliminating unwanted bugs, bringing in certain native species of insects can serve as an unlikely solution. Planet Natural suggested a praying mantis or a few lady bugs as insects that can be introduced or lured to your garden to eat smaller pests.
As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:
As the middle of summer approaches, you need to be vigilant about keeping your garden free of pests. Many insects breed during the summertime, which means they're on the lookout for great places to lay their eggs. For many bugs, that means near a source of food. In fact, some species of insects will lay their eggs inside budding vegetables and fruit so their larvae have something to eat as soon as they hatch. That's why you have to keep harmful bugs out without damaging the bugs that could help you, such as bumble bees.
You might have noticed that, with the exception of the kitchen, you find more pests in your bathroom than in the rest of your home. This is because insects and rodents see the bathroom as a convenient watering hole. Pests love leaky pipes and standing water because these offer them a hydrating oasis in the otherwise dry biome that is your house or apartment. And if your bathroom develops mold, all the better for pests, who may eat fungus or use it to lay their eggs.
The kitchen is largest gathering place for pests in a residential home. The reason is simple: pests can grab a bite to eat and take a sip of water while they're here. And when they find such a bountiful place, they will return home to their nests and report the finding - before you know it, your whole pantry is a buffet for ants! The problem could get even worse if a piece of food falls somewhere and begins to rot. Similarly, fruit and vegetables you bring into your home may be harboring unseen pests waiting to hatch.
It's finally here - sweet, sweet summertime at last! But has your time outside already been rudely interrupted by swarms of pesky bugs trying to take a stab at you? This season, let's say no more to swatting, slapping or clapping at these insects who seem to be tormenting innocent outdoors enthusiasts every year. Fortunately, the solution isn't as chemical ridden as you might think. As it turns out, some of your favorite scents are insects least favorite.
Not every creature that visits your property is a dangerous nuisance. Many animals actually offer a number of benefits that keep your yard healthy. Predatory animals, in particular, actually offer natural pest control. Here are five common suburban creatures that can help keep more difficult or annoying animals at bay:
Discovering a mouse is loose in your home can be a real headache, and for restaurant owners, such an infestation can be an even bigger problem. Mice may be cute, but they simply do not belong in the kitchen, attic or anywhere else. If you've noticed any of these signs around your house or business, it may be time to call in a professional rodent exterminator:
The customer is always right, and this is especially true if he or she is complaining about seeing a mouse or cockroach. Pests have no place in your organization, as bugs and rodents will turn away potential business or even lead to a possible lawsuit. Keeping your company protected requires a proactive approach. Work with a pest removal specialist to identify the best ways to stop creatures from infesting your business. Here are just a few ideas for successfully mitigating and preventing any issues:
