Non-Toxic Yard Treatment for Ticks

Summertime is tick season. Ticks carry a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease. While there are many chemicals you can use to control ticks, there are several non-toxic methods, as well. Rid your yard of ticks the simple, safe way.

Most people purchase toxic treatments such as Deet to control ticks. Although they can be very effective, these treatments are also harmful to humans, pets and the environment.

Keep the grass mowed and cut back brush. Ticks live where there is tall grass and brush, especially in areas between your yard and the woods.

Keep the deer out, as they carry ticks. Discourage deer from entering your yard by removing plants and birdfeeders that may attract them. If necessary, put up fencing around your property.

Plant naturally-repelling plants. Plants with strong odors are great for repelling ticks and other bugs. Geraniums, mint, citronella and garlic have properties that ticks will stay away from. You can also purchase sprays that have the essential oils of these plants to spray on your clothing.

Create a natural barrier. Spreading gravel and wood chips is an excellent way to keep ticks out of your yard. Creating a barrier with diatomaceous earth is another way of deterring ticks from crossing into your yard. Diatomaceous earth is made of silicate shells that are ground into a fine powder. The shells have razor sharp edges that will cut through the outer shell of ticks.

Make patios and play areas tick-free zones. Keep these areas free of shrubs and grass. Be vigilant about removing debris and keeping edges mowed down in these areas.

Remove debris around your property. Piles of leaves and twigs are tick breeding grounds because they are moist and woody. Removing this debris will greatly decrease your chances of your lawn being infested with ticks.

Pile firewood in a dry, sunny area. Ticks cannot survive in those types of conditions.

Don't allow pets to wander in the woods. Just like deer, ticks will attach themselves to our lovable pets. Keep your pets and your yard tick free by not allowing them to run around in the woods.

If your lawn is already infested with ticks, use a natural, chemical-free insecticide. There are many brands on the market, including Cedarcide Yard Repellent and Yardsafe by Greenlight. You can also treat your yard with diatomaceous earth by spreading it on your property with a spreader.