Connecting Pest Activity to Overgrown Landscapes
Property owners understand that landscape maintenance can be a constant task, and when the rain comes, it encourages growth, and it is a challenge to stay on top of landscape maintenance. Even hired landscapers stick to their schedule and may find the grass is longer, and new growth is sprouting up on the properties they manage. Increasing pest activity is directly related to overgrown landscaping, and oftentimes, the pests may be infesting an area without people even realizing it is happening. When grass grows tall, mulch gets moist, and shrubs are left untrimmed, these become ideal spaces for pests to nest and make a home. It is essential to be aware of any landscaping that may become a haven for pests and address it sooner rather than later. Eco-friendly pest control companies offer low-toxicity products and non-invasive methods for home and business owners to address pest concerns in overgrown landscapes.
The Big Attraction
Pests, like all living things, need food, water, and shelter. Landscape, especially in the Chicago area, provides all three in abundance, which is why it is strongly encouraged to keep the landscape well-maintained year-long. Unattended landscapes and lots will attract pests, such as rodents and termites, because they provide moisture and suitable vegetation. Leaf piles can also create ideal conditions for vegetation and are a perfect breeding ground for pests. If a pest extermination occurs, it should target pests in all life stages, from eggs to larvae to fully grown adults. Any remnants left behind will attract those pests again, to even worse ones. When working with a pest control company, ensure they have the necessary experience and equipment to complete the job safely and effectively, without putting people at risk.
Vegetation Touching the Structure is a Pest Highway
It may be nice to have some shade from trees over your home or backyard, but anytime vegetation touches the home or structure, it becomes a highway for pest activity. Pests don’t even have to work for it when you leave branches and shrubs against the house because they have easy access. Some of the most common pests that utilize these connections are spiders and ants. They use anything touching your home as a bridge, so if pests are in your yard and you are treating them in your home, eliminate any areas where they are in contact to prevent re-infestation. Once pests are in the house or other structure, their nesting can result in a more invasive removal. Always address pest concerns or evidence of their activity as soon as possible. Even in summer, pests can be effectively exterminated and kept away.
Pests That Love Overgrowth
In the Chicago area, residents are no strangers to pests. Some of the most common pests we see in this area include rodents that love overgrown grass for cover and nesting materials, and mosquitoes that accumulate in outdoor spaces and thrive in humid environments, often created by clogged gutters, untrimmed hedges, and leaf piles. Ants, termites, and spiders also find easy access to what they need in overgrown landscapes. Wear gloves when clearing these areas!
Keeping Pests Away
There are several steps people can take to prevent pest infestations in their landscapes. Keep trees trimmed and bushes short, keeping them away from the structure. Removing a natural bridge to your home will significantly reduce pest activity. Keeping the grass mowed short and frequently will prevent it from becoming too tall, which provides pests with a hiding place. If your lawn is getting too high between mows, ask your landscaper to cut it ½” -1″ shorter, and they will be happy to oblige. Clear out clogged gutters and leaf piles to prevent spiders and other insects from nesting inside, and seal gaps, cracks, and holes around doors and windows to prevent entry. Although pests aren’t intelligent, they do possess survival skills, and any opening can be a gateway to more significant pest problems. If you use a professional pest control company, they can often help identify areas in and around the structure that can be addressed to minimize future pest activity. Pest proofing is something that any home or business owner can do proactively. Mulch is not the end-all and be-all of landscaping. Mulch can be beautiful and sustainable, but keep it 6” away from the house perimeter and use it sparingly. New mulch placed on top of old mulch repeatedly creates moisture and often ends up infested with ants.
Local Pest Control Guarantee
If you live in DuPage or Cook County, Bigfoot Pest Control offers affordable, prompt, and excellent low-toxicity pest treatments. The team of experts will exterminate and provide preventive treatments and can be at your home today. Contact their offices for a free quote – they offer guaranteed satisfaction, which can’t be matched because the pests will be gone!
Call today at 847-891-8852 for the most comprehensive building pest control treatments in the Chicago area.