Pesticide Sprays (Permethrin)
Effective for significant infestations. Follow manufacturer guidelines, wear protective gear, and ensure safety of pets and children. Caution: Permethrin is harmful to cats and fish and can create environmental runoff if misused.
Nematodes (Natural Solution)
Beneficial microscopic worms that target tick larvae. Safe for humans, pets, and pollinators. For deer ticks, use Steinernema carpocapsae or Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. Maintain moisture for about a week after application.
Create an Uninhabitable Barrier
Ticks thrive in dense, shaded environments. Create a 3-foot-wide barrier of stones, wood chips, or gravel around your yard. This dry, hot environment kills ticks. Avoid damp, shredded mulch that provides cool, moist conditions.
Maintain Your Lawn
Regular mowing prevents ticks from finding refuge in tall grass. Let grass grow to 4-4.5 inches, then trim to 3 inches. If over 5-6 inches, use a bagging attachment to trap ticks in clippings.
Raise the Heat (Laundry)
All tick life stages are killed at water temperatures of 130°F or higher. More effective: place clothing directly in dryer with dry towels on high heat for minimum 6 minutes. Dry heat is more effective than hot water.
Diatomaceous Earth
Fine powder made of ground-up diatoms. Acts as a desiccant with microscopic sharp edges that cut through tick exoskeletons, causing fluid loss. Non-toxic, effective outdoors.
