Non-toxic (and effective!) Tick Prevention Tips

Tis’ the season. We are unenthused about tick season to say the least. And now is the time to consider and implement ways to minimize their presence in your yard as spring rolls in. There are different approaches to doing this: chemical repellants/pesticides — that come with their own health and environmental risks — , restricting animals that carry ticks (like deer) from getting onto your yard, and many natural alternatives that are effective and eco-friendly. 

Check these non-toxic tick prevention tips:

Remove leaf litter, tall grasses and brush Either on your own or with the help of a landscaping company, trimming of tall grasses and keeping your grass as short as possible with regular mowing, removal of left over leaf litter and brush from the winter time is integral to keeping ticks at bay. 

Wood barrier Consider adding a 3-foot barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and any adjacent wooded area to halt tick migration onto your property.

Cedar Oil Cedar oil is a potent natural repellent against ticks and other insects. You can create a homemade spray by mixing cedar oil with water and spraying it around your yard, focusing on areas where ticks are likely to hide, such as tall grass, shrubs, and wooded areas.

Diatomaceous Earth Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from fossilized algae. It works by dehydrating and desiccating ticks and other pests upon contact. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your yard, focusing on areas where ticks are commonly found. Be sure to reapply after rain, as it can wash away.

Fencing Discourage unwelcome animals that carry ticks (like deer, raccoons, foxes, stray cats, etc.) from entering and traversing your yard by building a fence.

Neem Oil Neem oil is derived from the seeds of the neem tree and has been used for centuries as a natural insect repellent. It contains compounds that interfere with the feeding and reproductive cycles of ticks, effectively repelling them from your yard. Mix neem oil with water and spray it around your yard, paying special attention to shady and moist areas where ticks thrive.

Lavender Ticks are repelled by the scent of lavender, making it an excellent addition to your landscaping. Plant lavender around the perimeter of your yard or in areas where ticks are commonly found to help keep them away.