Landscaping Tips to Reduce Pest Problems

Your landscape is either a barrier against pests or an invitation. Strategic landscaping reduces pest pressure, while poor practices create harborage and breeding sites just feet from your home.

Create a Pest-Resistant Barrier

The 18-Inch Rule

Maintain an 18-inch clearance between vegetation and your home's foundation:
- Prevents pest highways into your home
- Allows air circulation to prevent moisture
- Makes barrier treatments more effective
- Enables inspection access

Mulch Considerations

- Keep mulch at least 6 inches from foundation
- Use cedar or cypress mulch (natural repellents)
- Maintain 2-3 inch depth (thicker attracts pests)
- Replace annually to prevent decomposition

Gravel Borders

Consider a gravel border between mulch and foundation:
- Deters termites
- Reduces moisture
- Improves drainage
- Doesn't attract pests

Plant Selection

Pest-Repelling Plants

- Lavender: Repels mosquitoes, moths, fleas
- Marigolds: Deter aphids and mosquitoes
- Citronella grass: Natural mosquito repellent
- Rosemary: Repels mosquitoes and flies
- Basil: Keeps flies and mosquitoes away

Plants to Avoid Near Home

- Dense shrubs against foundation (harbors pests)
- Ivy or climbing vines on walls (pest highways)
- Fruit trees near house (attracts rodents)
- Heavy groundcover (retains moisture)

Water Management

Drainage is Critical

- Slope away from foundation (1 inch per foot minimum)
- Install French drains if needed
- Keep gutters clean and functional
- Repair foundation cracks

Irrigation Best Practices

- Water in early morning (dries during day)
- Use drip irrigation over sprinklers
- Don't overwater (creates moisture problems)
- Check sprinkler heads don't spray foundation

Yard Maintenance

Regular Tasks

- Mow regularly to reduce tick and flea habitat
- Trim trees away from roofline (prevents pest access)
- Remove debris (leaves, wood piles, yard waste)
- Store firewood 20 feet from house, elevated
- Clean up fallen fruit immediately

Seasonal Cleanup

Spring:
- Clear winter debris
- Trim dead vegetation
- Check irrigation systems

Summer:
- Monitor moisture levels
- Prune overgrown shrubs
- Remove standing water

Fall:
- Rake leaves promptly
- Cut back perennials
- Store outdoor items

Winter:
- Remove ice dams
- Check for rodent damage
- Protect pipes

Professional Landscape Pest Control

Even with perfect landscaping, outdoor pests still occur:
- Perimeter treatments create a barrier
- Lawn treatments control ticks and fleas
- Mosquito treatments for yard enjoyment
- Fire ant control for lawn and garden beds

Combine smart landscaping with professional pest control for maximum protection.

Schedule a yard inspection and get customized recommendations for your landscape.