As the first line of defense against unwanted pests, your yard plays an important role in what insects or critters make it into your home or not. A poorly maintained landscape doesn’t just look unsightly—it creates the perfect storm for rodents and insects to invade your home. Indeed, proper yard care is an effective way to keep pests such as mice, rats, ants, mosquitoes, or termites away from your home.

Check out these landscape maintenance tips to reduce rodent and insect activity around your property so you can enjoy your outdoor spaces to the fullest.

Trim Overgrown Shrubs and Trees

Rodents hide in dense shrubbery, ivy, and low-hanging branches. In particular, spiders and ants build nests in overgrown areas, and squirrels and roof rats use tree branches that touch your home to get onto your roof and eventually inside.

• Trim back shrubs at least 12–18 inches away from the exterior.
• Prune tree limbs back from the roof or siding.
• Remove fallen branches, dead vegetation, or overgrown hedges where pests can make a nest.

Mow and Edge Regularly

Tall grass and poorly maintained edges can hide ticks, fleas, mice, and other pests. Not only does regular mowing improve your curb appeal, it removes hiding places for pests.

• Mow your lawn frequently.
• Edge walkways and flower beds so dense vegetation can’t hide insects.
• Remove grass clippings to prevent nesting materials.

Eliminate Standing Water

Water attracts mosquitoes, flies, and ants. Be sure to:

• Remove standing water in buckets, old tires, or unused flowerpots.
• Clean clogged gutters and downspouts regularly.
• Install a French drain to improve drainage on your property.

Seal Trash and Store Firewood Properly

Improper trash storage draws in rodents, raccoons, flies, and cockroaches. Firewood acts as a nest for mice, snakes, and spiders.

• Store garbage in tightly sealed bins.
• Keep bins off the ground.
• Rinse recyclables before adding to the bin.
• Store firewood 20 feet or more from the house and five inches off the ground.

Control Mulch and Compost

Mulch is helpful in that it adds moisture and nutrients to your soil, but it also attracts pests such as rodents, termites, centipedes, and ants.

• Keep a mulch layer of no more than 2–3 inches deep.
• Keep mulch a foot or more away from your foundation.
• Use gravel or rock rather than organic mulch close to the house.

Install Pest Barriers

Discourage pest activity with barriers such as:

• Stone or gravel borders around the perimeter of your home.
• Copper mesh or steel wool in holes and crawl space vents.
• Repair holes in fences to keep moles or voles out.

Plant Mindfully

Certain plants naturally repel insects. Here are some tips for planting mindfully:

• Lavender, marigolds, citronella, rosemary, or mint can repel mosquitoes and flies.
• Dense ground covers like pachysandra or ivy can harbor insects and rodents—avoid planting these near the home.
• Space plants properly for optimal airflow while reducing moisture buildup.

A clean, well-maintained yard not only elevates your curb appeal, it protects your home from rodents and insects. You can do your part to reduce the likelihood of a pest infestation by managing vegetation, eliminating water sources, and planting intentionally.

PureGuard Pest Solutions in Nashville

Smart Nashville homeowners know to combine proper yard care with expert pest solutions for maximum protection. If you suspect pest activity in your yard, call our Nashville exterminators at 615-502-2855 before nuisance pests make it into your home.