Bugs have a way of showing up just when you want to be outside most. If you're wondering whether using perimeter spray works for managing insect and tick populations, the answer is yes—but only if you apply it the right way and pair it thoughtfully with your landscaping design.
We connected with the experts to break down what to do before you apply it, and how it can work with other methods of lawn care.
Why People Use Perimeter Spray Outside
“When it comes to keeping nuisance pests out of your home, creating a thorough, layered defense is essential," highlights Ngan Nguyen Rawlings, Ph.D., Sr. Specialist at ScottsMiracle-Gro. "Perimeter sprays are one of the simplest and most effective tools you can use, if done correctly.”
Exterior perimeter treatments help keep pests from crossing into your living space. Applied as a preventative treatment along the edges of your home and into your yard, they form a physical barrier that unwanted pests (even roaches) have trouble passing through.
Where and How to Apply It
Start close to your home. Spraying around the foundation is your first line of defense when it comes to perimeter pest control. You’ll want a 12-inch wide band along the base of your house.
“Apply a spray like Ortho® Home Defense® Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter along the foundation,” notes Dr. Rawlings. “Pay special attention to doors, windows, garage thresholds, utility openings, and basement vents—essentially any place that common pests could slip inside.”
Then, take a few steps back and spray key outdoor spots like patios, decks, and sheds. These are areas where bugs often hang out before trying to come indoors.
“For large open spaces or spot treating troublesome areas further out in the yard, some homeowners opt for a broader outdoor treatment approach,” Rawlings says. “In those cases, products like Ortho® Home Defense® Insect Killer for Lawns can help you control pests in the turf and prevent them from making it to your house.”
You’ll want to treat on a dry day with little to no wind. Rain shouldn’t be in the forecast for 24 hours.
Consider perimeter spraying around:
- Landscaping beds
- Fence lines
- Wood piles
- Dense vegetation, and wood chip or mulch beds
Using Perimeter Spray for Ticks
All species of ticks love shady, damp spots and tall grasses, which are often close to the edge of your yard or around landscaping. So applying spray to those areas—plus clearing back overgrown greenery—can cut down on their hiding spots.
Deer ticks can travel into your yard by latching onto animals or people. That’s why creating a barrier with something like Ortho® BugClear™ Insect Killer for Lawns & Landscapes helps create a protective zone in places you or your pets like to play.
“If you’ve had issues with ants and spiders, exposure to ticks, or other outdoor pests, treat key zones like patios, decks, sheds, and any commonly used outdoor areas,” Rawlings says.
Landscaping to Prevent Ticks
Mowing and trimming isn’t just about curb appeal; it’s part of pest control too. Tall grass and dense shrubs give bugs shelter and moisture, which keeps them thriving.
“Before you apply any perimeter spray, trim grasses and ground cover back at least 12 to 18 inches from the home’s foundation,” shares Dr. Rawlings. “Prune shrubs and low-hanging branches so they’re not touching the exterior walls.”
She also recommends clearing weeds or thick plants along the base of your house and using a weed killer like Ortho® WeedClear® before applying your perimeter treatment. “Healthy, well-maintained turf and landscaping support better pest management in the long run.”
What About Dense Ground Cover?
Some yards just have more ground cover—ivy, ornamental grass, or even creeping vines—and that can be a magnet for pests. Still, you can apply exterior treatments effectively even with dense vegetation around your entire yard.
“Yes—using a perimeter spray is not only still effective, but it’s especially important when you have dense ground cover in your yard,” explains Dr. Rawlings. “Thick vegetation like ivy, ornamental grasses, or creeping cover plants creates ideal conditions for pests by holding moisture and offering hiding spots of shelter.”
She suggests pairing foundation spray with a broader lawn treatment using Ortho® BugClear™, which targets insects hiding in turf or mulch. And improving lawn density with a feeding program like Scotts® Turf Builder® can help keep weeds down and improve drainage, both of which make your lawn less attractive to insects.
How Often Should You Reapply It?
Weather plays a big role. While a perimeter spray can last up to a year indoors, outdoor conditions wear it down faster.
“To maintain a strong, consistent barrier and keep pest pressure low, I’d recommend homeowners reapply their perimeter spray every 2 to 3 months outdoors, especially in high-pressure seasons like spring and summer,” recommends Dr. Rawlings. “After particularly rainy stretches or if you notice a spike in pest activity, it’s a good idea to refresh the treated zones a bit sooner.”
She adds, “Avoid overwatering close to the foundation, and keep mulch or soil from piling up against treated surfaces.”
Indoors, you’ll only need to reapply if pests return or after deep cleaning.
FAQ
Is perimeter spray safe to use around pets and kids?
Most sprays like Ortho® Home Defense® are safe once dry; however, always read the label carefully. Keep kids and pets off treated areas until everything has dried completely, which usually takes a few hours; we usually wait several days before being active in a treated area. If you're treating your lawn, keep them off it for the time recommended on the packaging.
Can I apply perimeter spray myself or should I hire someone?
Most perimeter sprays are DIY-friendly. “Creating a thorough, layered defense is essential,” reminds Dr. Rawlings. For most homes, that starts with a consumer product you can apply yourself.
Just make sure to follow the instructions, apply in the right weather, and keep up with maintenance every few months. If you're dealing with a severe infestation or a tricky layout (like a yard with hills or retaining walls), a pro might help you get better results faster.
Should I still use topical treatments to ward off tick bites?
It doesn't hurt, especially if you still have wildlife wandering within the perimeter you sprayed. To protect yourself from ticks while outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants, and use EPA-registered insect repellents with DEET or picaridin. Avoid playing in tall grass or dense vegetation. After being outside, thoroughly check your body, clothing, and pets for ticks. Showering promptly can help, and so can keeping your yard clean by mowing the lawn regularly and removing leaf litter.
