Most people don’t realize that a healthy and well maintained lawn is perhaps the best defense against unwanted insects. It seems counter-intuitive, but then again maybe not…but properly watered lawns, which drain well and get good sun, will not be the optimal living environment for insects.
Consider this. Most folks in Metro Atlanta know that the soil composition for our area and most of north georgia is compacted clay. If your lawn is like mine, it doesn’t drain all that great. With the recent hard rains that we have had, it is easy to look out and see the problem areas where water sits and does not drain as it should. If you add various ground covers and/or overhead trees, you may have water that sits for several days since it does not get the sun it needs to evaporate or burn off.
You then have areas of your landscape that become all inclusive resorts for the bugs that you probably DON’T want. These areas also become “family friendly” for the bugs. Your family won’t be so happy sharing the space with the bugs. Your family will have to fight off mosquitos, ants and all other types of creeping and crawling critters to enjoy the outdoors.
Sure there are chemicals that can help knock down these insects, but keeping a careful watch on your landscaping will quickly alert you to problem areas that you may be able to treat without chemical insecticides.
Also, a standard cutting schedule can do more to fight off insects than you might think. You should keep your grass at a recommended height to remain healthy.
| Grass type | Height |
| Bermuda grass, common | 3/4 to 1-1/2 inches |
| Bermuda grass, hybrid | 1/2 to 1 inch |
| Centipede grass; zoysia grass* | 1 to 2 inches |
| Fescue, fine; St. Augustine grass | 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches |
| Kentucky bluegrass | 1-3/4 to 2-1/2 inches |
Getting on a proper schedule is very important to the overall health of your lawn, but it will also show the insects that you are the boss.
