In part one of this two-part blog, we went over some of the most common pests you might find within your landscaping and the damage they might cause. Critters like wasps, bees, spiders, ticks and mosquitoes may all show up in your landscape at some point, and they could pose both health and structural risks to people and plants alike.
At LaytonScape, our landscaping contractor services include numerous expertise areas, such as the identification and prevention of pest infestation risks anywhere on your property. Today’s blog will go over several tactics our landscaping pros will advise you on for preventing pest infestations from forming before they grow and become major issues.
Weed Removal
For starters, you want to keep a careful eye on one element of many landscapes that serves as a harboring area for pests: Weeds. When weeds are allowed to grow too tall and take up too much space, they shelter many pest types that don’t survive as well in shorter, well-maintained grass. Weeding your entire property at least once a week will keep this from happening, plus limit the need for you to go through major weed-whacking projects a few times per year once concerns have built up.
General Landscape Care
In addition to weekly weed care, ensure you spend time performing other basic areas of landscaping maintenance. Mow the lawn at least once every couple weeks, plus trim back bushes and other areas that might serve as hiding spots for pests. Check plants for any signs of disease – this is often among your first signs that pests have invaded a particular area, so be diligent.
Pest-Deterring Plants
Did you know there are several specific plant types that help repel insects and pests? Here are some of the best options:
- Lavender: A nice smell that also turns away mosquitoes, flies and fleas
- Citronella: Best with mosquitoes, but also works for several other insects
- Edible herbs: Herbs like basil, parsley, oregano, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, lemongrass and even mint will all repel mosquitoes extremely well
- Petunias: These flowers hold off many insect types
- Chrysanthemum: Great for fleas, ticks, mites, lice and other small invaders
- Marigolds: These golden flowers repel both aphids and mosquitoes
- Catnip: While you’ll have to be careful here if you actually have a cat, mosquitoes hate catnip and will not come close to it
- Garlic: A strong-odor plant that works on many insects
Using Landscaping Pros
Finally, utilizing a landscaping contractor who knows how to handle pests and related insect concerns is a must. At LaytonScape, all our landscape installation and maintenance services involve professionals who understand the pests your landscape may be at risk of, plus some good tactics for preventing them from ever showing up.
For more on preventing pests in your landscape, or to learn about any of our landscaping or hardscape services, speak to the staff at LaytonScape today.
