By Tammy Pitts

Ticks and fleas may be tiny but they can impact both pets and humans with their disease- carrying and blood-sucking habits in a big way. Here are some effective tips to keep your yard tick and flea-free, protecting both you and your furry friends.

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Mow Often

While ticks very much enjoy wooded areas, they’ll definitely settle for long grass. One way to get rid ot ticks in your yard is to mow your grass regularly. If you miss your regular mowing for a few days, it won’t cause ticks to suddenly appear, but grass or weeds left unattended for long periods of time will provide a safe haven for them to breed. Keeping your lawn mowed on a regular basis ensures that these pests won’t thrive in your yard.

Create a Barrier

Along with keeping the yard trim and tidy, consider creating a buffer zone around your home to deter ticks from invading your yard. Creating a border of wood chips or gravel makes it difficult for ticks to cross into your yard from wooded areas. Putting up a fence will deter deer and other wildlife that carry ticks from wandering into your yard. Additionally, plants like lavender and marigolds will not only add beauty to your perimeter but will also help deter these pests. Other effective plants to repel ticks include garlic, eucalyptus, and mint.

Opt for Natural Solutions

If, unfortunately, you do encounter ticks and fleas in your yard, there are eco-friendly options to consider. Experts say certain oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and lemon are natural tick repellents. Mix a few drops of oil with water in a spray bottle and mist your lawn and surrounding areas, focusing on shrubs and fences. Be cautious with using large amounts of oils, especially if you have pets, as some oils can be harmful to them. Another natural option is diatomaceous earth, a fine powder that, when sprinkled in affected areas, dehydrates pests as they crawl over it. Just remember to reapply after rain or watering.

Invite Tick Eaters Into Your Yard

Some people keep chickens in their yards for the fresh eggs they produce, but there’s another benefit to having a chicken coop –– they feed on ticks and help control their population. Other birds also feed on ticks. You can entice them with bird feeders and baths. Not interested in birds? What about bats? For a different approach to tackling fleas and ticks, consider installing a bat house to help keep ticks and fleas in check.

Regular Pet Care

If you have pets, it's important that you keep them safe in your home by treating them for fleas and ticks. Regular grooming and bathing can help keep them clean and free of bloodsuckers. Always inspect your pets’ fur, especially after they’ve been out in the yard.

By implementing these tips, you can create a safer outdoor space for both you and your pets.

Tammy has an extensive background in journalism, media relations, social media strategy, marketing, and brand management. She resides in Michigan with her family which includes her two sons and their Goldendoodle, Max. In her free time, she loves to read and travel.