Tick Perimeter Treatment

ChemicalLicense Required
Effectiveness:
Cost Level
Medium
Environmental Impact
Medium
Resistance Risk
Medium
Target Pests
9 species

Target Pests (9)

Common NameScientific NameCategory
Brown Dog TickRhipicephalus sanguineusFleas & Ticks
Brown Dog TickRhipicephalus sanguineusFleas & Ticks
American Dog TickDermacentor variabilisFleas & Ticks
Blacklegged TickIxodes scapularisFleas & Ticks
Lone Star TickAmblyomma americanumFleas & Ticks
Rocky Mountain Wood TickDermacentor andersoniFleas & Ticks
Cat FleaCtenocephalides felisFleas & Ticks
ChiggersTrombiculidaeFleas & Ticks
ChiggersTrombiculidaeFleas & Ticks

Application Method

Apply residual insecticide to lawn, ground cover, leaf litter, ornamental beds, and transition zones between lawn and wooded areas where ticks quest for hosts. Ticks typically found in tall grass, brush, leaf litter, and edges between lawn and woods. Use power sprayer to apply pyrethroid insecticide (bifenthrin, permethrin, carbaryl) or newer chemistries. Treat perimeter of property, especially wooded edges, stone walls, ornamental plantings, and areas where pets and people frequent. Apply sufficient volume to penetrate leaf litter and ground cover. Focus treatment in shaded moist areas. Some products labeled for both turf and ornamental use.

Timing

Begin in early spring before tick season (April-May). Second application in late spring/early summer. Third application in fall if needed. Timing varies by tick species and region.

Frequency

Every 30-45 days during tick season. Typically 3-4 applications per year (spring, early summer, late summer, fall). Adjust based on tick pressure and product residual.

Preparation Required

Survey property to identify tick habitats and high-risk areas. Recommend landscape modification (clearing leaf litter, mowing tall grass, creating barrier between lawn and woods). Close windows. Remove pet food/water bowls.

Follow-up Required

Document treatment areas. Educate customer on tick prevention (landscape management, personal protection). Monitor tick populations. Recommend habitat modification for long-term reduction. Coordinate timing with customer outdoor activities.

Safety Precautions

  • Requires licensed pest management professional
  • Keep people and pets off treated areas until dry
  • Avoid contaminating water sources
  • Do not apply when pollinators active on flowering plants
  • Post notification signs as required by state regulations
  • Wear appropriate PPE during application
Important Disclaimer: The information provided in this knowledge base is for educational and reference purposes only. Pest management professionals should always consult current product labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), manufacturer instructions, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations as the definitive source of truth. Product formulations, application methods, safety requirements, and regulations may change over time. This information may be out of date and should not replace professional judgment, proper training, or required licensing and certifications.