If you enjoy spending time in your yard, especially during the warmer months, tick prevention should be a part of your regular landscape routine. Ticks are more than just a nuisance—they can carry Lyme disease and other harmful illnesses. Fortunately, there are simple and natural ways to make your outdoor spaces less welcoming to ticks, starting with wise planting choices. At Cataldo Landscaping, we believe lawn care in Newton, MA, and surrounding areas should go beyond mowing and maintenance. A healthy, well-designed yard can also serve as a first line of defense against pests. One effective strategy? Planting herbs and flowers known to repel ticks.
Why Use Plants to Repel Ticks?
Ticks rely on scent to locate their hosts. Many common garden plants contain essential oils that naturally deter ticks and other insects. By incorporating these plants into your landscaping, you not only add beauty and fragrance but also help create a less hospitable environment for unwanted pests.
Here are several plants that are both attractive and known to help keep ticks at bay:
1. Lavender
This hardy, fragrant plant is more than just a pretty purple flower. Lavender’s scent comes from linalool, a natural compound that deters ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. Plant it near seating areas, patios, or entryways to help form a protective barrier.
2. Rosemary
Rosemary thrives in full sun and well-drained soil—perfect for many gardens in Newton. Its intense aroma works as a natural pest repellent, and it doubles as a kitchen herb you can harvest fresh. Try adding it to raised beds or borders along pathways.
3. Mint
Spearmint and peppermint can both help keep ticks away. The only catch? Mint spreads quickly, so it’s best to plant it in containers or contained garden spaces to avoid it overtaking your lawn.
4. Marigolds
Bright, low-maintenance, and easy to grow, marigolds produce a compound called pyrethrum, which is used in many natural insect repellents. They’re an excellent option for edging flower beds or veggie gardens.
5. Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains citronella oil, a well-known insect repellent. It’s a tropical plant, so in cooler climates like Massachusetts, you’ll need to grow it as an annual or bring it indoors during winter. Still, it’s worth the effort for its tick-repelling properties and striking, grassy appearance.
Landscaping with Purpose
Incorporating tick-repelling plants is just one piece of a broader lawn care strategy. Here’s how Cataldo Landscaping can help keep your Newton yard safe, healthy, and enjoyable:
- Custom Planting Plans: We design gardens and beds with both beauty and function in mind, choosing plants suited for New England’s climate and your lifestyle.
- Lawn Maintenance: Regular mowing, aeration, and trimming reduce overgrowth, an environment where ticks thrive.
- Mulching & Clean-Up: We eliminate yard debris and apply mulch to create clean, well-defined areas that help reduce tick habitats.
- Organic Tick Control Solutions: Looking for eco-friendly options? We can apply all-natural treatments that complement your landscaping without using harsh chemicals.
Get Started with Superior Lawn Care in Newton, MA | Cataldo Landscaping
Your outdoor space should be a place to relax, not worry about pests. By combining strategic planting with expert maintenance, Cataldo Landscaping helps you build a lawn that looks great and supports your family’s health.
If you’re ready to take a proactive, natural approach to tick control, contact us today. We’ll help you create a customized plan for lawn care in Newton, MA, that keeps your property vibrant, welcoming, and protected all season long.