October: A Season of Pumpkin Spice, Football, and... Mosquitoes & Ticks

As we stroll through October, we can't help but embrace the autumn vibes that come with it. The weekends are a delightful mix of football, tailgating, outdoor concerts, cozy bonfires, and that age-old tradition of pumpkin patches. But here's the catch – as we snuggle into this new season with falling temps and crisp air, there's one thing that refuses to take a break – MOSQUITOES & TICKS.

So, if you're gearing up for a trip to the pumpkin patch, especially in the lead-up to Halloween, it's crucial to equip yourself with some savvy strategies to ensure you don't unintentionally cart home a bundle of uninvited creepy-crawlies. Let's kick things off by zeroing in on a tiny yet formidable adversary: ticks.

You see, ticks are the ultimate party crashers of the great outdoors, and they don't play by the rules of the seasons. These little critters remain active, poised to share their unwelcome gifts, which include Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Anaplasmosis, and more. They're masters of disguise, hiding under fallen leaves and biding their time, waiting for that perfect moment to hitch a ride on an unwitting host. So, if a pumpkin patch adventure is on your horizon, roll up your sleeves, don those pants, and once you're back from the patch, embark on a full-body tick check. You want to ensure that neither you nor your family unwittingly transport these freeloaders back home.

So, as you venture into the pumpkin patch, keep these tips in mind to ensure you're not carting home any buggy surprises:

Mind the Color: We all desire that Facebook & Instagram-worthy pumpkin to grace our porch throughout October. But here's the thing – as pumpkins age, they become a beacon for flies. So, be extra diligent about selecting the freshest pumpkin. While muted and neutral tones might rule social media, pale-toned pumpkins simply won't cut it in terms of longevity. Opt for pumpkins that sport a deep orange hue with vibrant green stems for maximum staying power.

Once you've secured your perfect pumpkin, try the nifty hack of applying a coat of lemon juice before carving. And if you plan to lighting that pumpkin up, consider using a citronella infused candle. While light can be a magnet for bugs, the citronella scent serves as an excellent deterrent.

If you're experiencing a few chills down your spine at the thought of pests lurking in your own backyard, reach out to your locally owned and operated pros at Mosquito Elite. www.getmosquitoelite.com