Piles of leaves are an iconic scene of fall. While many kids enjoy jumping into these piles, they aren’t the only ones with a fondness for them. Some insects like to hide in leaf piles since they provide shelter and warmth during the cooler season. We’ve made a list of pests that you could find amongst your leaves.
Ticks
Ticks are usually found in grassy or wooded areas, but they can also pop up in your yard. Leaf piles are humid and sheltered, which is perfect for them. They wait for animals, including pets, and humans to walk by so they can latch onto them. Keep an eye out for ticks to avoid becoming their next blood meal.
Earwigs
These interesting looking pests congregate in groups outside. Earwigs prefer spots that are damp and dark, making leaf piles a perfect fit. They aren’t dangerous, though they can pinch you with their pincers. Their presence outside can quickly lead to an infestation in your home as temperatures continue to drop.
Centipedes
Centipedes are drawn to moist, dark areas, which is why they will hide in leaves. These pests are nocturnal, so you aren’t likely to see them crawling around. If they sneak inside, they are more of a nuisance than a harmful pest. Centipedes do have a venomous bite, but they typically only result in mild irritation.
Beetles
Some species of beetles, like ground beetles, like to hide in piles of leaves. This is where they can lay eggs and overwinter until spring arrives. While ground beetles aren’t a concern outdoors, they have been known to invade homes. They will hide out in areas that are dark and quiet like your basement.
Spiders
Leaf piles can become home to a variety of spider species. Since other pests hang out there, spiders have access to plenty of food sources. While most spiders are harmless, some venomous ones can be found in leaves. Brown recluse spiders prefer dark and sheltered areas, so leaf piles are an ideal location.
Tips to Avoid Leaf Pests
Having pests hanging out in your leaf piles can be problematic. Pests in your yard can easily make their way into your home. Check out a few tips to help prevent these pests.
Act Quickly
Raking leaves may not be a fun activity, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore it. The longer the leaves are left, the more likely they will attract pests. Make sure to rake and bag leaves before pests have a chance to move in.
Jump Right In
It’s okay to let your kids and pets jump into a pile of leaves. You’ll just want to make sure they do it the same day the leaf piles are made. Rake them, jump right in, and then clean them up when you’re finished.
Use Gloves
The thought of touching one of these pests may make your skin crawl. You can avoid making contact with them by wearing a pair of gloves while working in the yard.
Treat Your Yard
While eliminating leaf litter can help prevent bugs, you can take your pest-proofing one step further. Applying a plant-based pesticide, like our Yard Bug Spray, to your yard can help keep bugs away. Not only will it kill on contact, it will also provide you with residual repellency.
You don’t have to let these pests ruin your favorite fall activities. Taking just a little bit of time to clean up your yard can keep your home pest-free. If you’re dealing with a bug problem, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.