What should be done if ticks appear in the yard? - briefly
Apply an EPA‑registered acaricide to the lawn and keep grass trimmed, removing leaf litter and tall weeds. Afterward, check pets and family members for attached ticks and launder outdoor clothing in hot water.
What should be done if ticks appear in the yard? - in detail
When ticks are discovered in a residential lawn, immediate action reduces the risk of disease transmission to humans and pets.
First, identify the infested zones. Ticks favor moist, shaded areas such as leaf litter, tall grass, and the base of shrubs. Mark these spots for treatment.
Second, modify the environment to make it inhospitable:
- Mow grass to a height of 2–3 inches on a weekly schedule.
- Trim low‑lying vegetation and remove excess foliage.
- Rake or compost leaf piles and clear accumulated debris.
- Ensure proper drainage to eliminate standing water.
Third, apply a targeted acaricide. Choose a product registered for residential use, follow label instructions precisely, and treat the identified zones during early morning or late evening when tick activity is lowest. Re‑apply according to the product’s recommended interval, typically every 7–14 days during peak season.
Fourth, install physical barriers where feasible. A layer of wood chips or gravel around garden beds creates a dry surface that deters ticks. Consider fencing off high‑risk areas to limit pet access.
Fifth, protect humans and animals:
- Require the use of tick‑preventive collars or topical treatments on pets.
- Encourage family members to wear long sleeves, long pants, and light‑colored clothing to spot ticks easily.
- Provide a tick‑removal tool and instruct on proper removal: grasp the tick close to the skin with fine‑pointed tweezers, pull upward with steady pressure, and disinfect the bite site.
Finally, monitor the yard regularly. Conduct weekly visual inspections, especially after heavy rain or during warm months. Record any findings to adjust treatment frequency and verify that control measures remain effective.