9 Landscaping Tips to Keep Pests Out of Your North Texas Home

As a homeowner in North Texas, you’re no stranger to the challenges of keeping your yard looking beautiful while also keeping pests at bay. Whether it’s ants, mosquitoes, or rodents, pests can invade your outdoor space and make their way into your home. Fortunately, the right landscaping choices can help minimize the risk of pest infestations and create a more enjoyable outdoor environment.

At Common Ground Pest Control, we understand the local landscape and the specific pests that tend to thrive in the North Texas region. In this blog, we’ll provide expert landscaping tips to help make your yard as unattractive to pests as possible and ensure they don’t make their way inside your home.

Common practices to keep pests out of your yard include:

1. Trim Back Shrubs and Trees

Overgrown shrubs and trees are more than just an eyesore—hey provide a perfect hiding spot for pests like rodents, ants, and termites. These areas can also lead to pest activity close to your home, which increases the likelihood that they’ll find a way inside. Insects, like termites, especially enjoy moist, dark environments, so unchecked trees or shrubs near the foundation can become a major attractant.

• Trim Shrubs and Trees at Least 12-18 Inches from the Foundation: To prevent pests from using them as a bridge to your home, make sure that shrubs and trees are kept at least a foot away from the foundation. This space will create a barrier between the plants and your house, making it more difficult for pests to access your roof or walls.
• Cut Back Overhanging Branches: If tree branches are hanging over your roof or windows, trim them back to at least 3-4 feet from the exterior of the house. This will not only prevent pests from climbing directly into your attic or windows but will also reduce the likelihood of branches causing damage to your roof during storms.

Tip: Regularly trim back any overhanging branches, especially those that are close to your roof or windows. Trees and shrubs that touch the exterior of your home act as highways for pests to access your roof or attic. For added prevention, remove dead or decaying branches, as these can harbor pests like termites or beetles.

2. Choose Pest-Repellent Plants

Certain plants naturally repel pests with their strong scents or chemical compounds. By incorporating these types of plants into your landscaping, you can create a more pest-resistant yard while still enjoying vibrant and fragrant plants. Not only do these plants deter common pests, but they also add color and texture to your outdoor space.

• Lavender: Plant near entryways, patios, or along walkways. Lavender's strong scent deters mosquitoes and flies.
• Rosemary: Use near windows, doors, or garden paths. Rosemary repels mosquitoes and ants and is also a great culinary herb.
• Marigolds: Place around the perimeter of your yard or near garden beds. Marigolds naturally repel mosquitoes, aphids, and other insects.
• Citronella Grass: Ideal for patios, backyards, or near outdoor seating areas. Citronella helps ward off mosquitoes and adds a tropical touch to your garden.
• Basil: Plant in herb gardens or near outdoor eating areas. Basil repels mosquitoes, flies, and even houseflies.
• Mint: Plant around the perimeter of your yard or near doorways to deter rodents and ants. Be cautious, as mint can spread rapidly in the garden.
• Thyme: Ideal for herb gardens or along garden paths. Thyme repels pests like moths, mosquitoes, and ants while adding lovely fragrance and culinary value.

3. Manage Standing Water

Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which can quickly become a nuisance in North Texas. Mosquitoes thrive in stagnant water, laying eggs in puddles, birdbaths, clogged gutters, or even small containers. These areas can become a hotspot for mosquito breeding, making your yard a haven for these blood-sucking insects.

• Flower Pots and Planters: Water can easily accumulate in the saucers or bottoms of plant pots. Ensure they have proper drainage or empty them after rainfall.
• Buckets, Containers, and Toys: Any outdoor items like buckets, watering cans, or children's toys left outside can collect rainwater. Check these regularly and empty them when not in use.
• Clogged Gutters: Gutters filled with leaves and debris can trap rainwater, creating perfect conditions for mosquitoes. Clean your gutters frequently to ensure water flows freely.
• Birdbaths and Water Features: Stagnant water in birdbaths, fountains, or ponds is a prime mosquito breeding site. Change the water weekly or install a small pump to keep it circulating.
• Low-Lying Areas: Check areas where water might naturally pool, such as depressions in the lawn or the ground around the foundation of your home. These spots can hold water after rainstorms and become mosquito hotspots.
• Tires: Old tires, often left in gardens or yards, can collect rainwater in their hollow centers. Ensure they’re disposed of or stored properly to prevent water accumulation.

Tip: Take the time to regularly inspect your yard for places where water can accumulate. Keep gutters clear of debris to prevent rainwater from collecting and stagnating. If you have birdbaths or outdoor water features, be sure to change the water at least once a week. Consider installing drainage solutions or aerating the soil if you notice persistent puddling in any area of your yard. Reducing standing water will significantly limit mosquito breeding grounds and protect your family from these pests.

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4. Mulch Wisely

Mulch is an excellent way to maintain moisture in your garden and reduce weeds, but it can also attract pests like termites, ants, and even rodents. Organic mulch, in particular, provides a dark, damp environment that pests love to hide in, potentially creating a bridge for insects to enter your home.

• Maintain the Right Distance from the Foundation: Keep mulch at least 6 inches away from the foundation of your home. This creates a barrier that prevents pests from using the mulch as a bridge to enter your home. Avoid piling mulch directly against your siding, as it can allow insects to travel unnoticed.
• Mulch Thickness: Apply mulch in a 2-3 inch thick layer. This is enough to suppress weeds and retain moisture without providing an overly damp environment that attracts pests. Too much mulch can create a perfect hiding spot for termites and ants, so be mindful of the depth.
• Use Pest-Repellent Mulch: Opt for cedar or cypress mulch. These types of mulch have natural oils that repel pests like ants, termites, and rodents. Their strong scent acts as a deterrent, making your yard less attractive to harmful insects.
• Avoid Mulch Piles: Don’t pile mulch against tree trunks, shrubs, or plant stems. The excess moisture and darkness can promote fungal growth and create a breeding ground for pests. Ensure mulch is evenly spread out around plants without excess buildup around their bases.
• Use Non-Organic Mulch in High-Risk Areas: Consider using rubber mulch or gravel in areas that are particularly prone to pest issues, such as near the foundation or along garden paths. These materials don’t break down like organic mulches, reducing the likelihood of pests nesting within them.
• Turn and Replace Mulch Regularly: Organic mulch decomposes over time, creating a rich environment for pests. Turn mulch occasionally to aerate it, or replace it as needed to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for unwanted insects.

5. Seal Gaps in Fences and Gates

Your fence is an essential part of your property’s security, but gaps and holes in your fence or gates can provide easy access for rodents, rabbits, and other pests. A small gap at the base of a fence is all it takes for larger pests, like skunks or raccoons, to enter your yard and potentially make their way inside your home.

• Inspect the Bottom: Check for gaps at the base and cover them with wire mesh, extending at least 6 inches underground to prevent burrowing pests.
• Seal Cracks: Use weatherstripping, silicone caulk, or expanding foam to seal cracks and holes in wooden or vinyl fencing.
• Tighten Gates: Ensure gates close securely by tightening hinges or installing self-closing mechanisms or latches.
• Repair Decaying Wood: Replace rotting fence boards immediately, and use treated lumber for better pest resistance.

6. Properly Dispose of Yard Waste

Yard waste, such as fallen leaves, clippings, and branches, is an attractive environment for many pests. Rodents, insects like ants and beetles, and even larger animals like raccoons can use these piles of debris as shelter. Additionally, decomposing organic matter can harbor pests like fleas and ticks, which are dangerous for pets and humans alike.

• Regular Cleanup: Rake and remove fallen leaves, branches, and grass clippings weekly to prevent pest habitats from forming.
• Compost Properly: Keep compost piles well-aerated, turn them regularly, and place them at least 20 feet away from your home to avoid attracting pests.
• Avoid Piling Waste Near the Foundation: Never pile yard waste or plant debris against your house’s foundation, as it creates a path for pests to enter.
• Use a Yard Waste Disposal Service: For large amounts of debris, consider hiring a yard waste service for proper disposal instead of leaving it on your property.
• Dispose of Dead Plant Material: Remove dead plants, branches, and leaves promptly, as they provide shelter for rodents and insects.

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7. Install Outdoor Lighting Strategically

Outdoor lighting enhances your home’s curb appeal, but it can also attract unwanted pests like mosquitoes, moths, and beetles. Insects are naturally drawn to light sources, especially at night. When placed near entryways, these lights can lead pests directly into your home.

• Use Yellow or Sodium Vapor Bulbs: These attract fewer insects than standard white bulbs.
• Install Motion-Sensor Lights: Use near entrances to limit lighting time and reduce pest attraction.
• Position Lights Away from Entry Points: Keep lights away from doors, windows, and patios to prevent drawing insects inside.
• Opt for Elevated Lighting: Choose lantern-style lights or sconces to keep the light source off the ground, where pests are most active.

8. Maintain Your Lawn

A well-maintained lawn not only looks great but also helps discourage pests from taking up residence in your yard. Tall grass, thick thatch, and untrimmed weeds create excellent hiding spots for insects, rodents, and other pests. Keeping your lawn healthy and trimmed can significantly reduce pest populations and improve your outdoor space.

• Mow Regularly: Keep grass at 2-3 inches to eliminate hiding spots for pests and maintain a neat lawn.
• Aerate Annually: Aerate your lawn once a year to break up thatch, allowing water and nutrients to reach the roots and promote healthy grass growth.
• Remove Weeds: Regularly pull weeds to prevent pests from using them as shelter or food sources.
• Water Smartly: Avoid overwatering your lawn, as excess moisture can create a damp environment that attracts pests like mosquitoes.

9. Keep Pests Out of Trash Cans

Your trash cans are a prime target for pests like raccoons, rodents, flies, and ants. Food scraps and waste can attract a wide variety of unwanted guests, turning your garbage into a buffet for pests. If your trash cans aren’t secured properly, they can also become a direct path for pests to access your yard and home.

• Secure Lids: Ensure trash cans have tightly fitting lids, and consider bins with locking lids or pest-proof designs.
• Clean Regularly: Wash your trash cans periodically to remove food remnants and odors that attract pests.
• Store Away from Entry Points: Consider placing your trash cans in a well-lit, enclosed area away from doors and windows to discourage pests from hanging around.
• Place Cans Far from Home:  If you leave your cans outside for trash pickup, place them as far from your home as possible to reduce pest attraction.
• Seal Compostables: Use sealed bins for compostable items to prevent pests like rodents and flies from being drawn in.

Keep Your Home and Yard Safe with Common Ground Pest Control

Landscaping plays a crucial role in preventing pests from taking over your yard and making their way into your home. By making these simple changes to your outdoor space, you can create a beautiful, pest-free environment while maintaining the safety and comfort of your home.

At Common Ground Pest Control, we specialize in providing expert pest management solutions for North Texas homeowners. If you’ve noticed an increase in pests around your yard or need assistance with perimeter pest control, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help with everything from pest prevention to comprehensive treatment plans. Contact us today to learn more!