Spend Time Outdoors (And Do So Bug-Free)

Stockah / shutterstock.com
Stockah / shutterstock.com

The summer is upon us, and that means more time spent outdoors. Whether you’re swimming in the pool, playing catch in the backyard, or sipping mojitos on your front porch, you want to do so without having to slap away bugs.

Bugs may love your yard, and there are quite a few things you can do to keep the bugs at bay.

  • Remove Standing Water: Standing water can attract mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. Regularly check your backyard for any sources of standing water, such as buckets, flower pots, or clogged gutters, and eliminate them. Ensure that water doesn’t accumulate in these areas by emptying or properly covering them. Additionally, consider using mosquito dunks or larvicides in standing water that cannot be removed, such as ponds or bird baths.
  • Keep the Yard Clean: Regularly clean up debris, fallen leaves, and organic matter in your backyard. These can serve as breeding grounds for insects and provide them with shelter. Trim overgrown vegetation, mow the lawn regularly, and dispose of any decaying plant matter. By keeping your yard clean and well-maintained, you can significantly reduce the presence of bugs.
  • Use Natural Repellents: Instead of relying solely on chemical insecticides, consider using natural repellents to deter bugs from your backyard. Planting certain herbs and flowers like citronella, lavender, marigold, and mint can naturally repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. You can also use essential oils derived from these plants to create homemade repellent sprays. Additionally, installing bug zappers or citronella candles can help keep bugs at bay during outdoor activities.
  • Create a Barrier: Create a physical barrier to keep insects away from your outdoor living spaces. Use fine mesh screens on windows, doors, and patio enclosures to prevent mosquitoes and flies from entering your home. If you have a porch or patio, consider installing mosquito netting or curtains to create a bug-free zone. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space while keeping insects out.
  • Use Pest-Resistant Plants: Incorporate pest-resistant plants into your garden or backyard landscape. Certain plants, such as marigolds, basil, rosemary, and chrysanthemums, naturally repel insects due to their scent or chemical properties. By planting these species, you can deter bugs from your garden and create a less attractive environment for them.
  • Minimize Lighting at Night: Bright lights can attract bugs, especially mosquitoes and moths. Consider using yellow or LED lights instead of traditional white lights, as they are less attractive to insects. Additionally, position outdoor lights away from seating areas or install motion sensor lights to reduce the overall lighting and minimize bug activity in your backyard.

You can also invest in some serious bug-zapping power with a bug zapper.