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How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes In Your Yard

family outside

There are many ways to get mosquitoes out of your yard and to keep them out so you can enjoy your space. While professional pest control services are always the best option, there are many DIY methods you can try to keep these pests out naturally. Some ways to get rid of mosquitoes include:

Citronella Candles or Torches

Probably the most well-known way of repelling mosquitoes is through the use of citronella candles and torches. By placing a few citronella candles or torches around your outdoor activity, you can create a barrier of protection around you and your guests. It works because mosquitoes hate the smell of citronella. However, they only work for a short period and only protect the area closest to the candles. 

Mosquito Repellents

One of the best ways to effectively control mosquitoes is through store-bought chemical repellents. According to the University of New Hampshire, repellents using one of the following ingredients have been found to be the most effective. DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and picaridin. 

  • Deet: Deet is a yellowish liquid that repels not just mosquitoes but other biting insects such as fleas and ticks. While it has been approved by the EPA, some people have been known to experience rashes, irritated skin, and headaches when using. So take caution when using and try to stick with products that contain no more than 15 - 30% Deet.  
  • Picaridin: Picaridin is a synthetic material found in plants used to produce black pepper. When selecting a product that contains this ingredient, look for levels between 10 and 20%.
  • Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus:  If you are looking for a more natural-based mosquito repellent, look for the ingredient oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), which comes directly from the lemon eucalyptus tree. It can be used to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting bugs.

Mosquito Traps

Mosquito traps mimic the presence of a mosquito host, such as an animal or human. They typically emanate the scent, carbon dioxide, or body heat we let off that mosquitoes find so appealing. Through this process, the trap lures the mosquitoes inside, trapping them in. Several different kinds of mosquito traps are available, both for indoor and outdoor spaces. Some of the most common include:

  • Heat: A mosquito trap that utilizes heat produces a thermal heat plume that mimics the warmth of a human or animal. When a mosquito gets close, the trap’s intake fan pulls it in. 
  • Carbon Dioxide: These kinds of mosquito traps use plumes of carbon dioxide, which mimic a human’s breath, to lure these pests in. 
  • Propane: These traps produce heat and carbon dioxide and are typically portable and self-contained. They are also a bit more expensive than their counterparts. 
  • It’s important to remember that mosquito traps don’t stop these annoying pests from biting. It simply helps to reduce the number of mosquitoes you have on your property. 

Removing Standing Water

The most important thing you can do to protect your family and loved ones from the wrath of these blood-suckers is to remove all standing water from your yard. Female mosquitoes use standing water to lay their eggs, which then hatch into larvae. They will emerge as new adults ready to feed in less than two weeks. Places in your yard that typically host standing water include rain gutters, tree stumps, old tires, kids pools, toys, and patio furniture. 

Keep a Well-Maintained Lawn

Mosquitoes and many other insects love tall grassy areas. You can help discourage them by keeping your lawn mowed, weeds under control and trees and shrubs trimmed. 

Invite Natural Mosquito Predators to Your Yard

While we find mosquitoes disgusting and irritating, several species of birds find them tasty. Swallows and purple martins love the taste of mosquitoes. So put up a birdhouse or a purple martin house and invite them to your yard.

Plant Flowers Unattractive to Mosquitoes

While mosquitoes are attracted to humans through scent, there are a few fragrances they find unappealing. Many attractive and easy to grow plants can serve as natural repellents right in your backyard. Here is a list of some of the most common flowers to get rid of mosquitoes:

  • Marigolds
  • Lavender
  • Rosemary
  • Basil
  • Lemon balm
  • Citrus
  • Catnip
  • Pennyroyal
  • Peppermint

Get Rid of Mosquitoes with Professional Help

All of the above DIY tips are fantastic for reducing the mosquito population around your property, but none will truly rid your landscape of these disease-carrying insects. For optimal mosquito control, contact the professionals at Vertex Pest Control. Our locally owned company knows how to fight against these annoying pests by utilizing only the most up-to-date mosquito control equipment. Protect your home and family today with a mosquito control package from Vertex. We can reduce the mosquito population around your home by nearly 70-80% when treated monthly.