How to Keep Mosquitoes Out of Your Yard
We’re lucky enough to enjoy beautiful weather all year long here in Florida, with sunny summers and mild winters. Unfortunately, that also means mosquitoes are a problem year-round. They make it difficult to enjoy any amount of time outside without being covered in itchy, irritating bites. Luckily, we have tips to help! Check out this blog to learn how to keep mosquitoes out of your yard.
1. Burn Rosemary
This effective, natural mosquito repellent is great if you’re grilling out anyway. Simply throw a few sprigs of fresh rosemary on the grill and the smoke will repel mosquitoes, keeping them away from your yard. As a bonus, a little rosemary on the coals will infuse an herbal flavor into your food, and your outdoor space will smell wonderful. That’s what we call a win-win!
2. Use Citronella
Citronella is a quick and effective way to get rid of mosquitoes outside. Citronella candles can be purchased from most grocery stores or outdoor supply stores, and can even be made at home! You can either melt down an unscented candle or get a candle-making kit, then add a few drops of citronella essential oil to the wax. You can also add citronella plants to your garden to act as a mild deterrent for mosquitoes.
3. Get Rid of Standing Water
One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes out of your yard is to eliminate where they breed, which is any form of standing water. Emptying birdbaths regularly, repairing leaking pipes or spigots, emptying and refilling your pets’ water bowls daily, and keeping swimming pools covered when not in use are easy ways to reduce standing water.
4. Keep Your Yard Maintained
Mosquitoes love hanging out in the shade, which is why it’s important you don’t let your landscaping get out of control. Tall grass, dense vegetation, and overgrown shrubbery all provide plenty of shade for mosquitoes, making your yard the perfect place to hang out. If you mow your lawn regularly and trim your trees and shrubs, not only will you eliminate mosquito habitats, but your property will also look great!
5. Start an Herb Garden
Rosemary repels mosquitoes, but it’s not the only herb with this ability. Lavender, catnip, basil, bee balm, mint, and sage have all been proven to repel mosquitoes and other pests. While their strong scents may keep mosquitoes at bay, these herbs smell delightful to humans. You can also use lavender, basil, and mint in your cooking. There’s nothing tastier than homegrown herbs!
6. Spray Apple Cider Vinegar
Adding equal parts apple cider vinegar and water to a spray bottle creates an effective homemade mosquito repellent. You can spray it on areas mosquitoes tend to hang out, around your deck or patio, and even on yourself.
7. Set Up a Fan
Not only will a fan help to keep you cool, but it can also keep mosquitoes away. Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so they’ll steer clear of the wind that a fan creates. Fans also disperse the carbon dioxide that we exhale, which is what attracts mosquitoes to people.
8. Set up Bat Habitats
We have to admit, this solution isn’t for everyone! Building bat houses on your property will attract bats, which are one of the greatest predators of mosquitoes. They’re capable of eating hundreds of mosquitoes every hour, making short work of your pest problem.
9. Call the Professionals
Although natural mosquito repellents and preventative measures are effective, they aren’t as effective as professional treatment. Here at Paul's, we use advanced products that eliminate adult mosquitoes while interrupting their breeding cycle to prevent future problems. With recurring treatments, you’ll always be protected!
Need Mosquito Control?
If you are a Florida resident looking for mosquito control, call Paul's! We offer mosquito control services in the Tallahassee and Jacksonville areas. You can get started with a free quote today.