How can you get rid of ticks in the garden? - briefly
Apply a targeted acaricide to the lawn and keep grass short, removing leaf litter and excess vegetation to eliminate tick habitats. Treat pets with approved tick preventatives and consider barrier plants such as lavender or rosemary to deter infestation.
How can you get rid of ticks in the garden? - in detail
Ticks thrive in moist, shaded areas where leaf litter and tall grass provide protection. Reducing such habitats lowers the likelihood of infestation.
Regular mowing shortens grass to a height of no more than 5 cm, exposing the soil surface. Removing leaf piles, brush, and fallen timber eliminates refuges. Maintaining a clear perimeter of at least 1 m with gravel or wood chips creates a dry barrier that discourages migration from surrounding vegetation.
Applying acaricides can suppress populations. Choose products registered for residential use, follow label instructions precisely, and treat the perimeter and high‑risk zones after mowing. Re‑application may be required every 2–3 weeks during peak activity.
Biological agents offer a non‑chemical alternative. Nematodes of the genus Steinernema penetrate tick larvae in the soil, reducing numbers without harming beneficial insects. Distribute the nematode suspension evenly over damp soil, allowing it to infiltrate the top 5 cm.
Host management reduces tick carriers. Keep deer, rodents, and stray dogs away from the garden by installing fencing or using repellents. Treat domestic pets with veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives to prevent re‑introduction.
Periodic inspection of the area assists early detection. Use a white sheet to collect detached ticks after treatment; count and record findings to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
Key steps for effective control:
- Trim grass and vegetation regularly.
- Remove leaf litter and woody debris.
- Install a dry, permeable border.
- Apply registered acaricides according to schedule.
- Introduce entomopathogenic nematodes where appropriate.
- Restrict wildlife access and treat pets.
- Monitor tick presence and adjust measures accordingly.
Consistent implementation of these practices produces a noticeable decline in tick activity, creating a safer garden environment.