If you’re having trouble keeping crane flies away from your yard, there are many ways you can do it. One of the best ways is to get professional pest control services to handle the problem. These experts have access to tools and treatments you might not have, including nematodes and other specialized products. But you can also do it yourself.
The first step to getting rid of crane flies is to identify the species in your yard. Some of them are harmless while others are annoying. You can use a screen on your windows to keep adult crane flies out of your home, and you can place a bug zapper on your lawn to eliminate adult flies.
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Another thing you can do to prevent crane flies is to attract birds to your backyard. Birds are natural predators, and they will naturally feed on the larvae of crane flies. Once the larvae are finished feeding, they will die. This will prevent them from reproducing and will help to minimize your pest problems. Depending on where your lawn is, you can either put up bird feeders to attract the birds or hang bird houses.
Other methods for getting rid of the crane flies include applying insecticides and introducing natural predators. Insecticides are available in various types, from granules to liquids. Make sure you read the label before using any product. It’s important to apply the right amount and at the right times.
If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you can also get rid of crane flies by mixing neem oil into water and spraying it on your yard. This is a natural and effective pesticide that’s not too harmful to humans or pets. Neem oil is made from the seeds of the Azadirachta indica tree.
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Another method of getting rid of crane flies is to remove thatch from your lawn. This is excess dead grass that has built up. Crane flies are attracted to thick thatch. Getting rid of it can improve the health of your soil and the yard. Aerated lawns are also good for reducing the chances of a crane fly infestation.
Another way to prevent the spread of crane flies is to use a nematode solution. Nematodes are soil-borne insects that kill other pests. They can be spread using a garden sprayer, or you can spread them by burying them into the ground. Be careful not to damage your lawn when applying the nematode solution.
Besides the obvious methods of preventing a crane fly outbreak, you can also prevent the flies themselves. Proper mowing, watering, and drainage will help keep your yard free of these insects. You can also introduce natural predators like rodents and skunks to help get rid of them.
Fortunately, there are plenty of products on the market to deal with this nuisance. Pyrethroid and imidacloprid insecticides are commonly used. Several brands are registered in Canada and are also safe to use around people. To make sure you’re getting the right product for your needs, look for the OMRI Listed(r) designation.
