Most homeowners know that to keep pests away, they should clean the gutters, keep landscaping tidy, and eliminate standing water. These tactics are definitely important and effective. But if you want to be even more thorough in your outdoor pest control efforts, there are some lesser-known tips presented below.

1. Plant a wide array of different plants.

When selecting plants for your landscape, always opt for a wide variety rather than many of the same plants. Pests are less likely to find or be attracted to plants they like when you only have a few of those plants. Plus, there is a greater chance that some of the plants you choose will have a pest-repelling effect.

2. Spray surfaces with cedar oil.

Do you know why cedar is such a common choice for fencing and decking? Its natural oils repel pests. You can actually purchase cedar oil and spray it on your home's exterior and also on fences and outbuildings. It will help to naturally repel insects like termites, carpenter ants, and wood bees, and most people love the earthy scent. You don't have to worry if your kids or pets are exposed to a little cedar oil, either.

3. Don't over-fertilize your plants.

When you give a plant more fertilizer than it needs, then it tends to make more and sweeter nectar. This nectar attracts pests like aphids and mites. Only fertilize your flowering plants if they are experiencing poor growth, and then, make sure you only apply as much fertilizer as the container recommends.

4. Clean up fallen fruits daily.

If you have a tree that produces fruit, such as crabapples or cherries, do not wait for all the fruit to fall to clean it up. The fallen fruit will attract ants, flies, and other pests. Make a habit of sweeping up the fallen fruits every evening.

5. Scatter eggshells in your garden.

Save your eggshells. Crumble them up, and put the crumbled shells underneath your garden plants. The sharp edges of the shells will cut through the delicate bodies of snails, slugs, and some other pests, killing them before they have a chance to harm your plants or begin reproducing.

The outdoor pest control tactics above will help you keep the upper hand against pests in your yard. For more tips and advice in this regard, reach out to a pest control service in your local area.