Though we typically become aware of ticks when they’ve found a host (us, our dogs, deer, etc.), they commonly spend the bulk of their lives in the environment and not on the host. Some species actually prefer to feed on different hosts, not just one. And so the time we actually see ticks is incredibly small. They’re spending most of their time in areas that have the high likelihood of yielding a variety of hosts while also protecting them from the sun, often in wooded areas with brush and vegetation. These areas will be shady with access to small mammals (and often large ones). Ticks are usually close to the ground and climb up vegetation where the host inadvertently brushes against them. Though species may prefer slightly different habitats, they tend to thrive in less-maintained environments.
Since they prefer forest and bushy areas, the best way to reduce their numbers is to keep a well-maintained outdoor area by removing leaf litter and brush, pruning shrubs, keeping wooded areas separate from lawns, and minimizing the amount of shady areas where we would most likely find ticks. To supplement these efforts, chemical control has a place in tick management, ideally applying in the areas where ticks are most likely to be found. CSI recommends two products for tick control, both are excellent perimeter/outdoor sprays with very different modes of action and longevity. They complement a tick management program, and each other, well
DuraFlex ZC uses 3 active ingredients to battle tick populations. Bifenthrin for adult knockdown, Novaluron for larval chitin synthesis inhibition, and Pyriproxyfen for larval Juvenile Hormone inhibition. These 3 active ingredients together both kill adults and break the life cycle by not allowing tick nymphs to become reproductive adults. It’s safe for lawns, shrubs, and turf; typically offering 4-6 weeks of residual control.
If you’re looking for a more natural solution, Vector Kleer is an essential oil insecticide that’s extremely effective on ticks. 24 hours after application we see 50% mortality of tick populations and after 72 hours, almost 100%. This FIFRA 25b exempt product can be used in Ultra Low Volume foggers and sprayers, allowing for easy perimeter and outdoor application.
Effective tick control begins in the woods and shrubs where ticks live; ensuring that our homes and businesses stay tick-free.