As temperatures cool in October, many pests seek shelter in your lawn and home, so implementing pest control strategies before winter arrives is crucial. Below are some of the most common pests to watch out for during the fall, along with prevention tips to keep your property pest-free.
Common Fall Pests
Grubs
Grubs, the larvae of beetles, remain active in the fall and feed on your lawn’s roots. This can cause brown patches and attract animals like raccoons and skunks that dig up lawns for grubs. If not controlled in the fall, grubs can burrow deeper into the soil and resurface in the spring, causing further damage to your lawn.
Spiders
As the weather cools, spiders often seek shelter closer to homes. They hide in piles of leaves, wood, and other debris around the exterior of your house. While most spiders are harmless, some species, like the black widow or brown recluse, can pose a danger. Keep your outdoor spaces clean to reduce the chances of an infestation.
Ants
Ants become more active in the fall, searching for food and shelter. They can enter homes through cracks in walls or foundations, making them difficult to control once inside. Their colonies multiply, so preventing entry and eliminating food sources is essential.
Rodents
Mice and rats are notorious for moving indoors as the temperatures drop. They look for warmth and food; once inside, they can cause structural damage and spread diseases. Outdoors, rodents nest in tall grass, woodpiles, and other debris. Clearing these areas and sealing entry points will help deter them.
Stink Bugs
Stink bugs are a common fall invader, often gathering on the sunny side of homes. While they don’t bite or harm humans, they can invade homes in large numbers and release a foul odor when disturbed. Sealing cracks and installing screens can help keep them outside.
Ticks and Fleas
Even though ticks and fleas are more active in the summer, they remain a concern in the fall. Ticks latch onto pets and people, potentially carrying diseases like Lyme disease. Fleas can thrive in your yard, especially in leaves or unkempt grass piles. Both pests are a health risk for humans and pets, so treating your yard in the fall is critical.
Pest Prevention Tips for Fall
Rake and Remove Debris
Fallen leaves and garden debris provide the perfect shelter for pests. Regularly rake your yard and remove piles of leaves, mulch, and other debris to make your lawn less appealing to pests seeking a winter home.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Rodents, ants, and spiders can enter your home through tiny gaps in the foundation, doors, and windows. Seal any openings with caulk or weatherstripping and consider installing mesh screens over vents and chimneys to block their entry.
Trim Vegetation Near Your Home
Overgrown shrubs and trees provide a bridge for pests to enter your home. Trim back any vegetation that touches your house and remove wood or brush piles near the foundation.
Apply Fall Pest Control Treatments
A pest control treatment in the fall can prevent winter infestation. Grubs, ticks, and fleas are common fall pests that can be treated effectively in October. Applying an outdoor perimeter treatment can also stop pests from entering your home.
Store Firewood and Compost Away from Your Home
Firewood piles and compost bins can attract rodents and insects looking for a warm place to nest. To minimize pest attraction, keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevate it off the ground. Compost bins should also be placed far from your home and sealed.
Inspect and Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
Regularly inspect your home’s exterior for signs of pests, such as nests, gnaw marks, or burrows. Look closely at gutters, eaves, and drainage systems where pests often hide. Addressing potential issues early can prevent them from becoming a bigger problem.
Fall pest control is essential for keeping your lawn and home pest-free as temperatures drop. By taking preventative measures like raking leaves, sealing cracks, and applying pest control treatments, you can minimize the risk of an infestation and ensure a healthier lawn and living environment. If you’re facing persistent pest problems or want to protect your home from fall pests, trust the experts at Perennial Lawn Care. Our comprehensive pest control solutions target pests at all stages of their life cycle, giving you peace of mind through the fall and winter months. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
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