Ultra Outdoors
A recent study by TruGreen reveals the top pest challenges for homeowners in 2023 and offers tips to enjoy a pest-free outdoor living space.
As we welcome warmer weather, it’s time to gear up for outdoor fun and relaxation. However, it’s also time to prepare for the inevitable arrival of uninvited guests – bugs! According to a recent study by TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care company, mosquitoes (46%) and ticks (38%) are expected to be the biggest pest challenges for American homeowners in 2023. In light of this, 68% of respondents plan to invest in outdoor pest control this year.
TruGreen has released its annual list of the top U.S. cities most affected by outdoor pests, based on data collected from January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2022. The list includes cities like Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Atlanta, among others. If you’re living in one of these cities, or just want to keep your outdoor living space free from pests, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the game when it comes to pest control.
Top 20 Buggiest U.S. Cities
- Los Angeles, CA
- Houston, TX
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
- Atlanta, GA
- Tampa-St. Petersburg-Sarasota, FL
- Detroit, MI
- Cleveland-Akron, OH
- Orlando-Daytona Beach-Melbourne, FL
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN
- Pittsburgh, PA
- St. Louis, MO
- Indianapolis, IN
- Nashville, TN
- Raleigh-Durham, NC
- Charlotte, NC
- Columbus, OH
- Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, MI
- Greenville-Spartanburg-Asheville, NC
- San Antonio, TX
- Portland, OR
Brian Feldman, Senior Director of Technical Operations at TruGreen, emphasizes the importance of pest control, stating, “Mosquitoes and ticks, in particular, thrive in warm, damp environments, so it is critical that people get ahead of their pest control this year, especially if they live in one of the top 20 metropolitan areas listed.”
5 Tips To Limit Bugs In Your Yard
Aside from seeking professional help, there are several steps you can take to create a bug-free environment at home:
1. Remove standing water
Mosquitoes and other pests are attracted to stagnant water, which is their breeding ground. Make sure to empty birdbaths, flowerpots, and other containers that collect water in your yard.
2. Trim overgrown vegetation
Ticks and other bugs love hiding in tall grass and dense vegetation. Keep your lawn well-trimmed and clear of debris to discourage pests from making your yard their home.
3. Use bug repellent
Applying bug repellent can keep pests like mosquitoes and ticks at bay when you’re outdoors. Choose a product containing DEET or other effective ingredients, and reapply as directed.
4. Install screens and seal gaps
Make sure your home is well-protected against pests by installing screens on windows and doors, as well as sealing gaps and cracks where bugs can enter.
5. Keep your outdoor living area clean
Regularly clean your patio, deck, or other outdoor living spaces to eliminate food sources for pests. Dispose of garbage promptly and store food in sealed containers.
Remember, it’s always better to be proactive when it comes to pest control. By taking these steps and considering professional services like TruGreen, you can enjoy your outdoor living space without the worry of pesky bugs.
For more information about TruGreen and their new report, visit TruGreen.com.
