4 Backyard Pest Control Tips For Spring

In many places throughout the country, winter is already showing signs of slowing down and making way for the warmer days of spring. The transition between these seasons makes for the perfect time to start prepping your backyard for the bright and sunny days that lie ahead. From lawn maintenance to power washing walkways and decking, you will have plenty to do in order to get things ready for all of the fun ahead.

One thing that you will certainly want to add to your list will involve pest control for your yard. Whether you need to have certain pests removed who decided to move into your yard during the winter or if you are looking to put preventative measures in place to keep pests away this spring, there are a number of aspects of springtime pest control to consider.

If pest control is at the top of your backyard maintenance list this spring, here are four tips to help you get things into tip-top shape.

1. Inspect Your Furniture

There are a number of things that you can do in order to ensure that your patio furniture is ready for spring. You will most likely need to bring it out of storage and give it a good cleaning so that it is in the best shape for regular use. However, if your furniture remained on your patio covered up throughout winter, you might need to inspect it for pests and critters.

During the colder months of the year, it isn’t uncommon for birds, squirrels, and even mice to seek refuge in and under your patio furniture. Unless you take steps to protect your patio furniture from critters, you might need to call in a pest control expert to remove them safely.

2. Bring in the Right Plants

One aspect of pest control in your yard that can overlap with your other backyard DIY projects this spring is that of choosing the right plants. You will most likely want to plant some season-appropriate plants in your yard this spring. When choosing your plants, opt for ones that pull double-duty by repelling insects.

Some plants like lavender and mint do a great job of keeping mosquitoes and even wasps out of your yard. This will help keep your yard free from pests all spring long.

3. Use Yellow Lights

It isn’t uncommon for backyard cookouts and hangouts to last into the evening during spring and summer. This means, though, that you will have to be prepared for the pests that tend to come out when the sun goes down.

While light attracts certain bugs, you can give yourself a fighting chance against flying pests by switching your white bulbs for yellowish ones. There are less likely to attract bugs when it starts to get dark outside.

4. Encourage Natural Predators to do the Work for You

One simple tip to rid your garden of pests is to let other animals do it for you. For example, birds and hedgehogs will love nothing better than ridding you of snails. To attract these animals, make sure to create an environment that will attract them, such as putting out the right food or providing a water bath.