The warm weather will soon send many homeowners outside to enjoy nature. To keep your yard healthy and free from predators and pests, follow these tips:

Animal pests
First, start by identifying the species of animal that may be causing damage to your lawn. Different animals require different methods most effective at deterring them.

From there, try and identify the areas animals may be getting your yard or hiding. Fill small holes with stones or soil, and seal crawl spaces beneath your porch or deck. Fences are a solid long-term deterrent to animal invaders, so make sure there are no loose slats that animals can slip through. A mesh fence is even more effective, with an electric fence providing top-line protection. 

Try and remove any food sources that might attract raccoons or squirrels. When trying to rid a garden of animal pests, there are a variety of options — some with more destructive results than others. Leaving poison traps can endanger pets and potentially kill off your foliage. Same with other catch and kill traps.

Opt for a more humane solution like scent repellents and nonkill deterrents. A capsaicin spray will coat your plants with a nontoxic layer of spice that will ward off raccoons, opossums, skunks and deer. Even planting aromatic herbs – mint, basil, fennel and lemongrass – can be a way to both grow fresh herbs and keep animals away. Household pets can do a good job keeping a yard or garden free from smaller creatures like rabbits and squirrels.

Insect pests
For insects, commercial insecticides containing bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are considered a safe alternative to traditional pesticides. Pesticide alternatives may include introducing or attracting other species to keep insects at bay. Frogs and ducks and predatory wasps are minimally invasive and can help keep caterpillar, snail and slug populations in check. Planting buckwheat can attract hoverflies, who in turn prey on aphids, leafhoppers and mealy bugs.

For helpful tips as well as low rates on home insurance, Contact Fundy Mutual today.