When summer weather arrives it means more fun outdoor activities are planned. It also mosquitoes come out, ready to take a bite out of anyone they can find. There are numerous ways a person can keep mosquitoes at bay, some with pesticides and some without. Here are a few methods to consider.
Candles
Candles or lanterns that contain certain essential oils are known to repel mosquitoes. When someone puts one of these candles on their patio, it can make enjoying time outside much more pleasant. Check out these oils that can be effective:
- Citronella
- Clove
- Cedarwood
- Lavender
- Eucalyptus
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Lemongrass
- Geraniol
Standing Water and Debris
Female mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in standing water. Because it only takes one week for a mosquito to grow from an egg to an adult, allowing wet areas to stand around a home can certainly be a breeding ground. It is recommended that people check children’s toys, garden pots, buckets, trash can lids, wheelbarrows, and other items that may collect water. People should regularly clean and clear gutters, and change the water in birdbaths. Additionally, it is always a good idea to walk around the yard to look for low-lying areas that are prone to collect puddles. Decaying logs, leaf piles, and other areas are also ideal for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Similar to the candles, certain plants give off a scent that can repel mosquitoes. When people pot these particular plants and put them around the perimeter of their deck or patio, it can make a difference. Here are some to consider: lavender, marigolds, citronella, lemongrass, rosemary, catnip, bee balm, ageratum, peppermint, basil, and sage.
Cup of Joe
Standing outside sipping on a cup of coffee might not do the trick in of itself, but sprinkling coffee grounds in certain areas where mosquito larvae are likely to live can make a difference. Why this happens is a mystery to scientists, but when people put the grounds in standing water they tend to notice a decrease in the mosquito population.
Lawn Treatments
Some people prefer to spray treatments around their lawns in order to control the problem. These products typically are used around the perimeter of a home, with a focus on damp, shady areas where mosquitos like to live. There are also misting sprays on the market that can take care of the pests after they are already in the air.
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Spray-On Repellent
For people who feel like mosquitoes are attracted to them, they may want to stick with the traditional method of applying an EPA-approved repellent on their skin. Peak mosquito times are usually around early morning and twilight hours, so folks should make sure they have the spray handy during those times.
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