What Kind of Spray Kills Ticks in My Yard?

Ticks cling to plants and trees before finding a host.

Ticks are small, blood-sucking creatures found on both humans and animals. The parasites feed on the blood of its host and may carry diseases, including Lyme disease. Spraying your yard with an insecticide is only one step in preventing the spread of ticks.

Considerations

Ticks live in any type of wooded area and even on well-maintained lawns. Ticks can also enter your home if your pet picks up the parasites from a dog groomer or other location. Treating your lawn alone, however, isn't a strong enough option.

Types

If you do use an insecticide for treating ticks, use one containing carbamates, pyrethoids or pyrethrums. All three are safe to use on ticks, according to the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventative Medicine.

Prevention

Kill ticks and control the problem by cutting back any underbrush or woody areas in your yard. Keep the lawn mowed and use insect sprays when you're outside. Check your pets for signs of ticks before they come inside.

References

• U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventative Medicine: Tick Control Around the Home
• Gardens Alive: Ticks