One of the biggest challenges of maintaining a lush business lawn is pest control. From rodents to insects, pests can wreak havoc on a healthy landscape, often resulting in pricey property costs. So, how do you keep pests at bay so that plants and foliage may thrive? Property owners should be aware of some common landscaping mistakes that can attract pests and potentially lead to problems later. Making a few basic changes can deter pests and prevent an infestation.
Are you making any of these landscaping mistakes in your lawn or green space?
Mulch
Are you using mulch in your beds, gardens, and landscape? Know that mulch is typically made from bark and wood chips, so it is a very attractive environment for pests like ants, roaches, termites, and earwigs. An infestation can cause costly damage to your property- skip traditional bark mulch and talk to a landscape professional to find options that will help prevent pests instead.
Plants
Do yourself a favor by implementing plants that will repel and prevent pests. This is a simple step that you can take to curb pests in your landscaping. Discuss native options with a landscape professional, and consider the following pest-repelling options:
- Marigolds
- Chrysanthemums
- Geraniums
- Lavender
Planting strong herbs, like basil and rosemary, can be quite effective at preventing pests and repelling mosquitoes, too. Plus, the payoff is an aromatic bounty of fresh herbs at harvest time!
Placement
The placement of your plants, trees, and even your home makes a difference in pest prevention. For example, if these features are too close together, you are creating an ideal shelter for pests to hide and flourish. Furthermore, if shrubs and plants are too near your business structure, this may invite pests inside, setting the stage for an infestation. Don’t make it easy for pests to bridge the gap from outdoors to in, allow at least an 18” buffer and berth around your building, cleared of vegetation, tree branches, and plants, to prevent access.
Water
Any standing water, like a birdbath, a pond, or water feature, can attract pests. First, these are the perfect environment for mosquitoes to thrive and breed, which can carry and transmit a slew of diseases. Even buckets or barrels of accumulated water can attract pests; assess and empty after storms, as needed. If you must have a birdbath, change the water daily to prevent infestation.
Feeders
If you provide feeders or feeding stations- for squirrels or birds, for instance- you will attract pests. Rodents, insects, and other animals may also visit and forage your feeder. It makes sense that pests would settle in and get comfortable in an environment where food is provided for them; if you want to keep pests at bay in your landscaping, skip the feeders.
Do you have a pest problem? Prevent pests on your property by making a few simple changes to your landscaping. For professional assistance, talk to the team at Carolina Services Landscaping, a division of Carolina Services Inc., in Charleston, SC, to learn more or to schedule services.
