Updated On

March 17, 2024

Why You Can Trust Us

Today’s Homeowner exists to help you maintain or improve your home safely and effectively. We uphold strict editorial standards and carefully vet the advice and resources referenced in our articles. Click below to learn more about our review process and how we earn money.

Learn More

    Ticks are not only a nuisance, but also carry some truly dangerous bacteria and diseases. For that reason alone, it’s important to keep them away from our homes, families, and businesses.

    Tick infestations are most commonly and outdoor problem as opposed to indoors. Treating the large space outdoors seems like a daunting task to take on yourself. But, did you know that you don’t necessarily need to call a professional for tick treatments? DIY methods like spraying can successfully treat your outdoor areas and ward off these harmful intruders.

    Over the years I’ve sprayed countless homes and yards for ticks, both professionally and as a homeowner. My step-by-step guide for getting rid of ticks from your yard shows you exactly how to do the job yourself. It also helps you save money in the process. Keep reading for my product recommendations and tips to handle your tick problem with ease.

    Our Pick
    Terminix_logo

    4.6

    Over 90 years of experience

    Nationwide service area

    Free retreatments if pests return

    GET ESTIMATES
    Limited Time:
    Get $50 OFF Pest Control Plan
    Best Service Selection
    orkin logo

    4.7

    Treats 20 types of pests

    Offers instant online quotes

    30-day money-back guarantee

    GET ESTIMATES
    Limited Time:
    $50 Off First Service (GET50)
    Highlights
    • Concentrate spray is a concentrated liquid that is mixed with water and added to a carry-along sprayer
    • Premixed sprays come combined in a ready-to-use can
    • Natural tick sprays use a combination of nature-based, pest-repelling essential oils

    What Are Different Types of Tick Sprays?

    In today’s battle against this insidious pest, whether you are a professional or an average homeowner, using tick sprays on your lawn is the leading method for tick remediation. While there are numerous manufactured sprays geared specifically toward tick control, they all generally fit into three categories: concentrated insecticides, premixed insecticides, and natural tick killers.

    When most folks learn of these insect killer variations, the next question is that of efficacy. The truth here, though, is that there really is no difference in insecticide product efficacy based on whether it needs to be mixed or has already been mixed. As long as a concentrate is mixed as indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions, it’s typically just as effective at killing and repelling ticks as its matching, premixed counterpart.

    However, natural tick killers are often less effective than insecticides. That said, insecticide also has the draw back of potentially killing beneficial insects and their larvae.


    Featured Video: Learn the Importance of Tick Prevention and How Orkin Can Help


    What Are the Best Types of Concentrated Tick Sprays?

    With concentrates, the product is in a super-concentrated liquid form and requires mixing with water in a carry-along sprayer before it’s sprayable at the proper strength. This is the most economical choice for large areas and is exactly what professional pest control companies use. The only difference? You can purchase multiple years worth of concentrated insecticide for less than the cost of a single pest control service.

    There are quite a few different kinds of concentrated insecticides to choose from, but i ultimately recommend two: Permethrin or Talstar.

    My #1 Pick: Permethrin SFR

    Permethrin is one of the most popular and effective tick sprays and what I always recommend for treating ticks. This product is essentially a synthetic representation of the oils of the chrysanthemum plant.

    Highly toxic and repelling to ticks and a number of other pests, this product has a wide safety exposure margin for plants, humans, and most other animals, so, once dry after application, it’s not a safety risk to us, those cherished lawn plants, or our pets.

    Permethrin is even safe in food preparation areas — this is one of the deciding factors that I rank this as #1 because it’s so effective at killing ticks yet is really safe in its dry form. However, like all pesticides, I highly recommend keeping pets and children out of the area until the initial spray is dry. This is particularly important for cats as they can be symptomatic while dogs and humans typically are not.

    My #2 Pick: Talstar

    Talstar is another leading choice by homeowners and professionals alike for spray-treating outdoor areas for not only ticks but other unwanted pests (I particularly like this stuff for spiders). This product also comes premixed or in concentrate form and is completely safe for plants, humans, and animals. Like Permethrin, spray and allow to dry before allowing pets or people to enter the area. Once dry, it’s only going to pose a problem for the pests.

    Talstar P Concentrate by FMC Corporation is a highly effective concentrate version of Talstar. It comes in an easy-to-use, graduated measuring bottle, so guess work and sloppy measuring with outside containers is not a thing. Simply gather the desired amount of concentrate in the measuring reservoir, then pour into a sprayer, and mix. Total product: 96oz.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    While sprays are invaluable for keeping ticks away, you should always try to avoid tick-prone areas like tall grass, bushes, and other low, moist foliage.


    Which Tick Spray Should You Choose? Talstar vs. Permethrin

    Both options will work great for eliminating ticks from yards. Permethrin is more effective on the initial spray at keeping mosquitos at bay, while Talstar etends to be more effective 4 weeks later. This holds true to common industry opinions that Permethrin has a stronger “knock down” – which means it will kill the pests quicker upon initial application.

    Permethrin is also typically a bit cheaper, which holds some weight in our rankings and ultimately puts it as our top choice. For that matter, it’s not by chance that so many exterminators choose Permethrin over Talstar for tick extermination.

    Best Termite Control

    4.6

    Terminix_logo
    Limited Time:
    Get $50 OFF Pest Control Plan

    What Are the Best Types of Premixed Tick Sprays?

    If you have a smaller area to cover, premixed solutions come already mixed to the correct proportions and often come with their own spraying vessel and may even attach to a garden hose for applying spray.

    Let’s take a quick look at the differences:

    Garden Hose Tick Spray

    This is a much better option for outdoor use since it can be broadcast sprayed across your entire yard (or as long as your hose will reach). If you have a smaller sized yard (under 1 acre) this may be a great choice for you.

    Black Flag Flea & Tick Killer Yard Treatment Spray is a great garden hose concentrate because it comes with an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR), specifically Nylar. This works be targeting nymph ticks and affects their life cycle, preventing growth into adult ticks. It’s quite the one-two punch for totally removing ticks.

    Spray Wand

    These typically come in a jug with an attached battery-powered “spray wand” or simply a squirt bottle variety. These are only good for spot-treating small areas and are also not nearly as cost-effective (think — you’re paying for a new sprayer each time). However, these are definitely the easiest to use. I like this option for quick-and-easy spot treatments or a broadcast application for small yards.

    Ben’s Tick Fence is a perfect example that uses the ready-to-spray wand. This formulation of permethrin is specifically for dealing with ticks and will outperform many others on the market.

    Best Service Selection

    4.7

    orkin logo
    Limited Time:
    $50 Off First Service (GET50)

    What Are the Best Types of Natural Tick Sprays?

    For the green-conscious consumer looking to avoid harsh chemicals, there are several, tick sprays made with natural ingredients. These typically use a combination of plant-based, pest-repelling essential oils such as peppermint oil, cedarwood oil, or eugenol, an oil derived from cloves.

    My product testing, in tandem with years of hands-on experience with professional strength pesticides, shows that natural products like cedar oil do work for repelling but are not as effective at killing. Basically, they keep ticks away, and prevent tick bites while they’re at it, but aren’t as good at exterminating. This fact is especially true of the tall grass and shrubs around your lawn.

    All things considered, my favorite natural product is the Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray by Wondercide. Wondercide Spray is a very effective, nature-based, premixed formula. Simply attach the product bottle to a standard garden hose, and let the treatment begin. Each bottle of this tick spray can cover up to 4,000 sq. ft. Made almost entirely from cedarwood oil, it is very safe for pets, plants, and animals of all types.


    How to Effectively Use Tick Yard Spray

    Using tick spray effectively requires careful planning and proper execution. Before you get started with the spraying process, you need to choose a product, read, and re-read the instructions (do not skip this), prep the area, check the local weather conditions, and don protective gear.

    Once you’re ready to start spraying, do so with the following tips in mind:

    • Proper Application Technique: Hold the spray nozzle close to the ground to provide even coverage. Start from the perimeter and work your way inward to avoid walking over freshly treated areas. Pay special attention to areas where ticks are likely to hide, such as along fences, in shady spots, and around wooded edges.
    • Allow for Drying Time: After applying tick spray, give the treated area ample time to dry completely before allowing pets, children, or anyone to access it. This approach helps prevent contact with wet spray, reducing the risk of exposure.
    • Reapply as Needed: Adhere to the recommended reapplication schedule provided on the product label. Factors like rainfall and high tick activity can impact the spray’s longevity. Regular reapplication is crucial to maintaining a protective barrier.
    • Combine with Other Preventive Measures: While tick spray is effective, it’s only one component of a comprehensive tick prevention strategy. Implement other measures such as keeping your yard well-maintained, creating a barrier between wooded areas and your yard, and performing regular tick checks on yourself and pets.

    Follow these tips and stay up-to-date about local tick activity. That way you can enjoy a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience in your yard.


    How Should You Treat Ticks on Your Skin and Clothing?

    Even though this guide is specifically for getting rid of ticks in your yard, I want to take a minute to talk about the series of products available for preventing and killing ticks from your body. The fact is, ticks are one of the most well-known carriers of lyme disease. If you treat your home or property for ticks, you’re likely going to deal with a few tick bites from these little bloodsuckers.

    For starters, there’s the world-famousOff! brand” bug spray, which uses DEET as an active ingredient. DEET is a great insect repellent that sprays directly on your skin and it works pretty well against ticks, but it does NOT kill them.

    Additionally, the effectiveness can wear off quickly. More recently, professionals have recommended spray-treating select articles of clothing with a specific formula of permethrin. For example, any time I’m outdoors in a tick-ridden area, I wear a pair of pants and long socks that I’ve treated with Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin.

    The treatment lasts up to 6 washes and kills ticks as they walk across your clothing.

    There are many great tick repellents for hiking, strictly for use in the woods and wilderness areas.

    Ticks are never a welcome guest, and they certainly don’t have to be. There are plenty of great treatment options out there that nearly anyone can administer. Chief among them for outdoor care are today’s quality tick sprays, such as those mentioned here.

    Our Pick
    Terminix_logo

    4.6

    Over 90 years of experience

    Nationwide service area

    Free retreatments if pests return

    GET ESTIMATES
    Limited Time:
    Get $50 OFF Pest Control Plan
    Best Service Selection
    orkin logo

    4.7

    Treats 20 types of pests

    Offers instant online quotes

    30-day money-back guarantee

    GET ESTIMATES
    Limited Time:
    $50 Off First Service (GET50)

    FAQ About Tick Spray for Yards

    Can I combine tick sprays with other preventive measures?

    Absolutely. To maximize tick control, combine using tick sprays with other preventive measures. These can include keeping grass and shrubs trimmed, removing leaf litter, creating a buffer zone between wooded areas and your yard, and performing regular tick checks on yourself, family members, and pets after spending time outdoors.


    When is the best time to apply tick sprays to my yard?

    The timing of application depends on the life cycle of ticks in your region. Spring and early summer are the best times for initial application, as ticks become more active during warmer months. However, it’s advisable to follow local tick activity patterns and consult with experts to determine the optimal time for application in your area.


    Can I apply tick spray myself, or should I hire a professional?

    Many tick sprays are designed for DIY applications, and homeowners can apply them following the provided instructions. However, if you have a significant tick infestation or prefer a more hands-off approach, hiring a professional pest control service is a good option. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to provide thorough coverage and effective treatment.


    Are there natural or organic alternatives to chemical tick sprays?

    Yes, there are natural and organic tick control options available. These often use essential oils like cedar, rosemary, or peppermint to repel ticks and other pests. While they may be considered safer for the environment, they might require more frequent application and may not provide as long-lasting protection as synthetic chemical sprays. Research thoroughly and consider your priorities when choosing a solution.


    Can tick sprays also repel other insects?

    Yes, many tick sprays are formulated to repel or remove a range of insects, including mosquitoes and fleas. These multi-purpose sprays can provide a comprehensive solution for outdoor pest control. Always check the product label to understand which pests the spray targets and how effective it is against each type.


    How frequently should I apply tick sprays in my yard?

    The frequency of application depends on various factors, including the specific product you’re using, the tick population in your area, and weather conditions. Some sprays offer longer protection and may require reapplication every few weeks, while others might need more frequent use. Refer to the product label for recommended reapplication intervals, and adjust based on tick activity and weather changes.


    Article Update Log
    9/7/2023
    Reviewed for accuracy, cost data, industry best practices, and expert advice by Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas.
    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas

    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas is a globetrotting content writer hailing from the USA. With a passion for pest control, he brings a unique perspective to his writing from his early years working for one of the largest pest control companies in America. Throughout his early 20s, Jordan gained valuable experience and knowledge in the field, tackling pest infestations head-on and ensuring the well-being of countless homes.

    Learn More

    photo of Lora Novak

    Lora Novak

    Senior Editor

    Lora Novak meticulously proofreads and edits all commercial content for Today’s Homeowner to guarantee that it contains the most up-to-date information. Lora brings over 12 years of writing, editing, and digital marketing expertise. She’s worked on thousands of articles related to heating, air conditioning, ventilation, roofing, plumbing, lawn/garden, pest control, insurance, and other general homeownership topics.

    Learn More

    Learn About Pest Control Experts in Your Area