Summertime in Texas means school’s out, the sun’s out, and grilling season is in full swing. We love everything about summer… except for those pesky mosquitoes. With DFW reporting their first case of West Nile for the season, we’ve come together to share some tips on how to keep your backyard free and clear of those Texas mosquitoes!
YOUR FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE
When dealing with mosquitoes, it’s important to start at the source: eliminate any hidden breeding areas in your yard! One often overlooked area is your rain gutters. Keeping your gutters clean of debris prevents stagnant water from collecting. Be on the lookout for other hidden stagnant water sources. Check outdoor toys, plant saucers, decor, and more to ensure they are free of standing water. Mosquitoes don’t travel far, so if you’re feeling bombarded chances are they’re making a home in or near your yard.
MOSQUITO SYSTEMS
Installing a mosquito system offers a maintenance-free solution to eliminate the flying enemy. Insecticide solutions can be dispersed throughout your landscapes through your existing sprinkler systems, or through an independent misting system. There are many companies throughout the DFW metroplex that install and manage mosquito systems, with some offering environmentally-friendly solutions in lieu of insecticides.
GARDEN SOLUTIONS FOR MOSQUITOES
Many plant varietals may act as deterrents in your garden. Although horticulturists suggest it’s the essential oils of these plants that are most effective, not the plant itself. Still, growing a “mosquito garden” will give you full access to your very own DIY bug repellent with beautiful, fragrant plants. Grow them, and next time you’re headed outdoors, clip a few leaves, rub the leaves to release the oils, and apply away! For a larger scale solution, throwing some fresh clippings on the grill will release oil and aroma into the air… perfect for those backyard get-togethers!
HERE’S A LIST OF OUR FAVORITE MOSQUITO-REPELLING PLANTS:
- Lemongrass
- Lavender
- Marigold
- Basil
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
The best part about a mosquito garden is you’ll have plenty left over for home grown cooking. Happy summer, folks!