Blog Archives

6/25/2024

Deterring Mosquitoes in Your Yard

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Every year in Minnesota, homeowners spend way too much time fighting a never-ending battle against annoying mosquitoes in their yard.

The team at West Metro Lawn & Snow is frequently asked “how can we deter all these mosquitoes?!” First and foremost, we always encourage our clients to sign up for our six-round Mosquito Control Program - which is a barrier spray treatment for mosquitoes (and ticks, too)! We have received awesome feedback about the success of this program!

Beyond that, our top suggestions to our clients to fight against mosquitoes include the following:

Eliminate Standing Water
Did you know that standing water serves as the breeding ground for mosquitoes? We strongly encourage clients to take a look around their yard to find any standing water that may be hiding. Common locations for standing water include water bowls for pets, bird baths, and children’s pools and water tables. Eliminating standing water when possible will prevent female mosquitoes from laying their eggs.

Maintain a Debris-Free Yard
It is no secret that mosquitoes (and ticks) commonly hangout in tall grasses, untrimmed shrubs, woodpiles, and weeds. Ensuring that your grass is regularly cut, shrubs are appropriately trimmed, and weeds are treated during the green season will eliminate the favorite hangouts of those pesky mosquitoes!

Clean Your Gutters
This tip ties in very closely with the last two! Gutters that are full of twigs, leaves, dirt and other debris often turn into the perfect warm, wet habitat for mosquitoes. We often remind customers that clogged gutters equal standing water (and ultimately the perfect spot for female mosquitoes to lay eggs)! Keep your gutters clean and clear!

Purchase Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Lastly, some of our clients find it helpful to introduce mosquito-repelling plants into their yards and gardens. Some of the most commonly known mosquito-repelling plants include citronella grass, lavender, marigolds, basil, rosemary, and peppermint. These plants emit smells that mosquitoes simply do not like! Ultimately, this is another suggestion that may make your summer more peaceful this year.

6/4/2024

Poor Soil Quality (New Construction Homes)

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We hear the following complaint from new clients time and time again - “we recently built a home in the West Metro and the soil quality is so BAD!”

New construction projects frequently disrupt soil, resulting in compaction, nutrient depletion, and diminished water absorption. The use of heavy equipment and machinery during construction compresses soil particles, reducing pore space. Consequently, air, water, and nutrients struggle to penetrate the soil, hindering plant growth and adversely affecting plants and lawns.

So, what can be done to address the poor soil quality at your new construction home? Several steps can be taken:

Aerate the Soil: Use tools or machines like lawn aerators to create small holes in the soil. This helps to break up compacted soil, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate more easily.
Add Organic Matter: Incorporate compost, manure, or other organic materials into the soil. This improves soil structure, increases nutrient content, and enhances water retention.
Topsoil Application: Apply a layer of high-quality topsoil over the compacted soil. This can provide a better growing medium for plants and help to establish a healthier lawn or garden.
Use Soil Amendments: Add soil conditioners such as gypsum to improve soil structure and reduce compaction. Lime can be added to adjust soil pH if necessary.
Plant Cover Crops: Sow cover crops such as clover, rye, or alfalfa. These plants can help break up compacted soil, add organic matter, and improve soil fertility.
Mulching: Apply mulch around plants to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce soil compaction.
Proper Watering Techniques: Use efficient watering methods, such as drip irrigation, to avoid waterlogging and further compaction.
Avoid Heavy Traffic: Minimize the movement of heavy machinery and vehicles over the soil to prevent further compaction.
Erosion Control: Implement erosion control measures like silt fences, straw bales, or retaining walls to prevent soil erosion and loss of nutrients.
Soil Testing: Conduct soil tests to determine the specific nutrient deficiencies and pH levels. This information can guide appropriate fertilization and amendment strategies.

By taking these steps, you can significantly improve soil conditions in new construction areas, promoting healthier plant growth and a more sustainable landscape.

Deterring Mosquitoes in Your Yard

Poor Soil Quality (New Construction Homes)

Chris Halvorson

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