5 Ways to Get Rid of Pests Naturally
Nothing brings down a happy home like a pest invasion. Not only are creepy critters annoying and gross, but they can also do a lot of damage if left unchecked.
However, it’s equally important not to damage the environment or get rid of beneficial bugs during pest removal efforts. Here are five ways to get rid of pests naturally.
Use Natural Plant Deterrents
Like people, there are certain plants that pests react negatively too. Whether it’s toxic to them or they just don’t like the smell, incorporating these natural plants into the area around your home can help keep the bugs away.
For example, citrus plants like lemongrass help keep mosquitoes at bay. Catnip is also a mosquito repellent that attracts cats to the yard to hunt mice. Cinnamon can help get rid of dust mites when used inside. If you have specific pet complaints, this blog post can show you how to use plants to repel pests.
Attract Predators
Like using catnip to attract cats, you can also attract other natural predators that will help reduce the pest population around your home. One of the best ways to get rid of mosquitoes is to put up bat houses. Bats are largely misunderstood creatures who play an important role in the environment. Each bat also eats up to 6000 mosquitoes in a single evening.
Owls are another creature that helps keep pest populations low, especially in rural areas. Installing owl boxes can help attract owls to your area to eat rodents.
Keep Debris Away from Siding
Whether it’s a pile of wood that you plan on using for heat during the cold months or some junk from your yard that you have yet to dispose of, leave it away from your house. Ideally, any large piles of debris will be at least 20 feet away.
Debris attracts bugs and rodents that will naturally transition to your home if left unattended. This piece of advice is especially important in areas where termites are a problem.
Eliminate Standing Water
If areas of your yard tend to hold water or get swampy, do some strategic landscaping to help with drainage. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Aerate the areas that tend to hold water and add compost to the soil to help it break down. You may have to work with a landscaper to install a French drain or regrade your yard. Not only will this help prevent pests, but it reduces the risk of flooding and increases the value of your home.
Block Entry Points
Being proactive in blocking potential entry points will help keep the inside of your home pest free. In the spring and fall, take some time to assess if there are areas where pests could get in.
In the spring, focusing on screens and gaps in the door will help you note points of entry for bugs. As the air gets cooler, the focus shifts to rodents looking for a home for the winter. Be sure to fill cracks with chicken wire and foam to prevent rodents from chewing through.
Being proactive in pest prevention will help keep your home clean, healthy, and safe.
