As fall wanes across the Midwest, the beautiful red, orange, and yellow leaves have likely found a new home on your lawn. And, while those piles of leaves may seem harmless, they are actually cozy hideouts for a range of bugs and animals. Clearing out these piles isn’t just about keeping your lawn tidy — it’s also about protecting your family, pets, and property from unwanted pests.
Common Pests Living in Leaf Piles
Here are some of the most common culprits found hiding in leaf piles:
Ticks – Damp and shaded leaf piles are prime habitats for ticks, which will remain active until the temperature drops below freezing.
Rodents – Mice and vols love the shelter of leaf piles and use them as nests to escape the cold.
Snakes – Non-venomous snakes, like garter snakes, might take refuge in a leaf pile to stay hidden from predators.
Spiders – A wide variety of spiders would love a good leaf pile to call home and will thrive in the darkness they provide.
Slugs and snails – These pests enjoy the damp conditions of leaf piles and will feed on decaying leaves.
Risks to Your Lawn and Health
Leaf piles don’t just hide pests; they can cause harm to your lawn, too. When left unchecked, decaying leaves block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to mold, fungi, and lawn disease. Also, pests like ticks and rodents can spread diseases to humans and pets, making a clean yard essential for health and safety.
Tips for Safe Leaf Removal
To prevent your lawn from becoming a haven for pests, follow these tips:
Clear leaves regularly – rake leaves often to minimize hiding spots for pests.
Compost responsibly – if you compost, keep the pile away from your house.
Use mulch – shred leaves to mulch and repurpose them for your garden.
Wear protective gear – wear gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from ticks and other pests.
Professional Pest Control
Managing leaf piles can be time-consuming, but even doing a great job might not stop pests from making their way to your home when winter arrives. Prepare for the comfort-seeking pests with a preventive pest control treatment from Tiger Pride Lawn Care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.