Summer is right around the corner, and with the warmer temperatures come the pests. Any homeowner can tell you that summer is a particularly difficult time when it comes to pest control. The warmer climate, coupled with rainy weather, makes most yards a breeding ground for all types of creepy-crawlies, and many of them will be very interested in getting inside your house. So, how can you keep them out? Here are some tips to keep your house free of pests this summer.
Clean up the Yard
Because pest infestations start from the outside, it only makes sense to pay attention to the yard. The summer months mean that everything outside is growing, and this can make it easy for pests to find places to live. In addition, summer thunderstorms can often leave standing pools of water in things like flower pots -- pools that insects like mosquitoes love to use as breeding areas. To combat this, take the time to clean up your yard. Keep the grass mowed short, dump out all containers that are full of water and store things like firewood farther away from your home.
Seal it up
You’d be surprised at how easy it is for insects and critters to find ways inside your house. Even if your doors and windows are shut tight, tiny cracks and openings are almost always present, and it seems like pets are great at finding them. Take the time to walk the perimeter of your house and notice anything that looks like a way in -- even if it’s incredibly small. Seal these possible entrances to discourage pests from making their way inside and ruining your summer.
Use Nature as a Defense
Many people don’t know it, but there are many natural ways you can help ward off infestations. Keeping plants like mint and rosemary can help because they give off a smell that many insects find repulsive. Natural predators like birds are also a great way to keep the unwanted population down. Encourage this by growing plants and herbs and installing bird-friendly features like bird baths and feeders to encourage our flying friends to hang around.
Of course, one of the best ways to keep critters out this summer is to hire the services of a professional. If you’d like to know more about what we can do together to keep your home free of creepy-crawlies, please contact us at Midwestern Pest Control today!
