The month of August is known for sunny hot days and warm nights. As we enjoy the last few weeks of summer, some other critters and pests also come out to play. In today’s article, we will discuss which pests to keep an eye out for in August and which landscaping supplies can help keep them from infiltrating and taking over.

Which pests to look for in august

Chinch bugs: Chinch bugs are true bugs belonging to the Hemiptera group. It may do a lot of harm to lawns, especially in locations where the summers are hot and dry. They inject a toxin into the grass during feeding, which causes it to wilt and yellow even after the chinch bugs have left.

Leatherjackets: These pests are known to eat the roots and bases of plants. Leatherjacket pests spend the winter in the soil and don’t cause significant damage until late spring or early summer.

Sod webworms: Adult lawn moths have sensory appendages called labial palps that extend in front of the head, making them typical snout moths. At rest, the moth’s wings are held close to and over its body, giving it a slim appearance. The moth does a short flight close to the grass when disturbed. These moths lay their eggs on the ground in a random pattern at night. A double row of brown or black dots runs along the backs of the creamy larvae, placed at the base of long bristles. The larvae of the Lucerne moth are slightly larger than the larvae of other sod webworms. Larvae spend the day in silk-lined tunnels, writhing when disturbed. They come out to eat at night and feed on the upper root systems. The summer weather causes further damage to the exposed damage.

June beetle: May/June beetles, also known as “June bugs,” are Scarabaei beetles. On early summer evenings, these natural insects might be observed flying near lights or heard hitting window screens. Their larvae cause damage as they feed off the grass for the entire duration of summer. As they nest in the soil during winter, they begin to feed as early as spring the following year.

Mosquitos, moths: These insects are usually nocturnal and don’t have as much color as butterflies. Moths are considered pests, first and foremost. If you have a moth infestation, food and fabric products can be damaged or destroyed, sensitive objects can be disturbed, and health risks can arise.

Mice and rats: Some rodents, particularly non-native species like the Norway rat, roof rat, and house mice, are pests. They infest homes, endanger public health, and cause property damage. They have the potential to devastate or destroy important habitats, native plants and animals, crops, property, and food supplies.

What landscaping supplies can help with pest control?

Cedar Mulch: It adds an extra layer of defense against insect pests. Cockroaches, termites, and ants will be repelled by cedar mulch, just as they will be repelled or killed by a cedar chest or a cedar-lined closet. This is due to the presence of thujone, an oil.

Pea gravel: Pea gravel can make a strong base beneath paving stones due to its tiny size and natural strength. Pea gravel is an excellent mulching material because it inhibits weed growth and allows drainage. Therefore, preventing a moisture-rich habitat for insects and pests from breeding.

Riverstone and Mexican beach pebbles: Both can be used as an alternative to mulch. They are quite weather-resistant, durable, and will not break down, therefore will not attract unwanted pests.

Landscape fabric: this landscape supply is excellent for two reasons when controlling pests. Landscape fabric can be used to prevent gravel and other natural stones or pebbles from sinking into the earth. It is also great for maintaining moisture levels.

Which plants are suitable for pest control?

Basil: Basil, like many other herbs, has a strong aroma and oil that can be used to repel pests in the home. Basil pest control has been utilized since antiquity, and the spicy herb appears to mosquitoes, moths, and flies. Basil is sensitive to chilly temperatures and requires full sun all day.

Chrysanthemums: The plant is endemic to the Balkans and is used as a source of pyrethrin in the pharmaceutical industry. Other Chrysanthemum species contain pyrethrin chemicals and are widely used as “companion plants” to keep insects away from vulnerable decorative or edible plants. This plan is perfect for repelling bedbugs, fleas, lice, roaches, ants, ticks, spider mites, and Japanese beetles.

Marigold:  A natural insect-repelling chemical produced by marigold in a recently published study has reaffirmed what farmers have traditionally utilized to avoid or minimize whitefly infestations. Marigolds also help repel mosquitoes and nematodes like cabbage worms.

Tips and tricks to control pests

• Encourage a healthy soil environment.
• Choose pest-resistant plant cultivars.
• Keep landscapes tide to avoid nesting and breeding.
• Beneficial insects eat pests, so they’ll come to your garden looking for nectar, pollen, and shelter. Grow flowers that suit these demands to entice them to stay.

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