5 Methods for Keeping Mosquitoes Away Like a Pro

Figuring out how to keep mosquitoes away is one of summer's great problems. An evening spent admiring a summer sunset can quickly become ruined by these pesky insects—so what can you do?

It is possible to reduce your yard's mosquito population without the use of intensive pesticides. While it's likely impossible to eliminate every single mosquito, the use of mosquito traps, repellants, habitat deterrents, and even certain types of plants can help keep mosquitoes far, far away.

Here's what you need to know.

Get Rid of Their Breeding Grounds

One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes away is to prevent them from even getting near you in the first place. This can be done by getting rid of mosquitoes' breeding grounds, both natural and man-made.

Mosquitoes' favorite habitats are tall grasses, bodies of standing water (both large and small), piles of leaves, and decaying logs. While you can't do much about the pond in your backyard, keep grasses trimmed and don't let piles of yard debris build up for too long.

But mosquitoes can also make a home in the things you leave outside—especially if they can fill with water. Items like baby pools, buckets, and watering cans can fill up with water over time and become a mosquito hotspot. Keep these items covered or inside to prevent this.

Tip

If you need to keep a standing body of water uncovered—like a small bird bath or backyard pond— add mosquito larvicide to it. Larvicide often comes in the form of a pouch or a dunk, and it uses microbes to kill mosquito eggs before they can hatch.

Plant Mosquito-Repelling Plants

Have a green thumb? Add a few mosquito-repelling plants to your backyard to keep mosquitoes far, far away. Most of these plants are herbs and repel mosquitoes thanks to their strong scents. Here's a few to add to your garden.

• Citronella

• Bee Balm

• Lemongrass

• Basil

• Catnip

• Peppermint

• Rosemary

• Lavender

• Garlic

• Sage

• Alliums (garlic and onions)

Use Mosquito Repellents

One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes away is through the use of repellents. The most effective personal repellents will use ingredients like DEET or Picardin, and they can keep working for up to eight hours.

If you'd prefer to use a repellent with fewer chemicals, look for ones that are essential oil-based. But keep in mind that these won't be as effective at protecting you.

To keep mosquitoes out of larger areas, try using repellents meant for patios or decks, like citronella candles or lanterns, or a battery-powered mosquito repellent from Thermacell.

Tip

Did you know you can use coffee to keep mosquitoes out of your yard? All you need to do is sprinkle some used coffee grounds in the areas of your backyard that accumulate standing water. The strong scent of coffee can keep mosquitoes away.

Set Mosquito Traps

Mosquito traps are another easy way to keep mosquitoes away. While you may need to head to the store to purchase a mosquito trap, once they've been set up, they'll get straight to work reducing the mosquito population in your yard. Here are the different types of traps:

• Zappers: These traps draw mosquitoes (and other flying insects) in with a light, then zap them once they get too close.

• Breeding traps: These traps are filled with grass and stagnant water, creating the ideal place for a female mosquito to lay eggs. However, the mosquitoes are unable to leave once they're inside the trap.

• Vacuum traps: These traps use light to attract mosquitoes, similar to zappers. However, once the bugs get close to the trap/light source, they're sucked in with the trap's small vacuum.

• DIY traps: For a cheaper—if potentially less effective—method, consider creating your own mosquito trap. You can use things like bottles, dry ice, and baking soda and vinegar.

Use a Box Fan While Outdoors

Need a low-tech option, fast? Try using a box fan. The breeze created by a box fan is just strong enough to keep mosquitoes from getting too close, as they're not very strong fliers.

Set up the box fan near where you'll be, and keep it turned on for the length of the time you're outside. The breeze from an oversized outdoor ceiling fan can also work well to keep mosquitoes away.

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Read the original article on The Spruce.