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Mosquitoes are a never-ending menace. From outdoor barbecues to a quick trip to pick up the paper, they seem to always find a way to leave itchy bites.
Not only are mosquitoes a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases. Viruses and bacterial infections from scratched bites can threaten the health of you and your family.
But there are several easy ways to control mosquitoes in your backyard. If you’re looking for how to control mosquitoes, you’ve come to the right place!
We’ve put together this quick and handy guide on home mosquito control. Read on to learn more!
How to Control Mosquitoes With Plants
Did you know that there are many plants that naturally repel mosquitoes? In fact, many bug sprays are derived from these plants. But if you want to avoid added chemicals, planting a mosquito-repelling garden is the way to go.
The first and most obvious mosquito-fighting plant is citronella. This low, leafy plant contains chemicals that keep mosquitoes away. As an added bonus, it has lovely pink flowers and looks great in planter beds or pots.
Other mosquito-repelling plants may already be in your garden! Rosemary, marigold, lavender, geraniums, mint varieties, and lemongrass are also not popular with mosquitoes, but look lovely in the garden.
Standing Water Issues
Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Stock tanks, dog water bowls, ponds, and slow-draining puddles are all popular hotspots for mosquito eggs and larvae.
To prevent a large-scale mosquito infestation, make sure that any standing water is removed or regularly changed.
If you have a pond in your backyard, adding a fountain and filter pump can mitigate larvae. Stocking it with fish can also help keep the mosquito population down, as the fish will eat live mosquitoes and their eggs.
Even puddles can be breeding grounds for mosquitoes. If you have a spot in your yard that seems to collect and keep water, consider having it leveled by a landscaper.
Keep Your Plants Trimmed
Mosquitoes also thrive in shade and moist areas. One of the best tips for how to control mosquitoes is to make sure your yard is maintained.
Mow your yard regularly. Not only will this prevent mosquitoes, but will also help manage fleas, ticks, and other pests that thrive in long grass and weeds.
Trim hedges and trees to ensure that they are not throwing too much shade underneath. This can leave moist, cool puddles in the soil that allow mosquitoes to breed.
Professional Treatment
If you live in an area with bad mosquito infestations, you may want to consider hiring a mosquito control service.
Professional mosquito control can repel mosquitoes through chemical treatment of your yard and home. They can also prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs on your property.
Mosquitoes Be Gone!
Still wondering how to control mosquitoes? Wear light clothing, avoid wearing scents, and make sure to keep up with your yard work and gardening. All of these things will keep mosquitoes at bay.
If you do your due diligence with preventative measures, you can enjoy your outdoor areas during mosquito season with far fewer bites and itching.
For more useful home tips about the best mosquito control, be sure to check out other sections of our blog. We have tons of great information!
