REVIEWSNETWORK@SOUTHERN LIVING.USA | How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Yard

I stumbled on this article titled “How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Yard”, curtsey Southern Living, so we thought it interesting to share it with you.

This article offers expert tips on how to keep mosquitoes away from your yard. Here are the key points:

·       Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so it's essential to empty containers like flower pot saucers, old tires, buckets, and garbage can lids. Refresh bird baths and pet water bowls regularly.

·       Use Mosquito Dunks: These contain bacteria (Bti) that kill mosquito larvae without harming beneficial wildlife.

·       Keep Your Yard Tidy: Trim grass, hedges, and avoid ground covers like English ivy near seating areas to reduce mosquito hiding spots.

·       Wear Repellents: EPA-approved mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing also helps.

·       Use a Box Fan: Mosquitoes struggle to fly in strong wind, so placing a fan near your seating area can deter them.

·       Mosquito-Repelling Plants?: There’s no scientific evidence that plants like lavender or lemongrass repel mosquitoes. Only plant extracts or oils have shown effectiveness.

·       Avoid DIY Mosquito Traps: Homemade mosquito traps and bug zappers aren’t effective for population control and often kill beneficial insects.

These methods won’t eliminate mosquitoes completely but can help manage them in your immediate outdoor space.

Let’s Expand This Here:

While in earlier mentions in the article summary that plants themselves may not effectively repel mosquitoes, certain plant extracts and oils have shown repellent properties. Here are some plants commonly associated with mosquito deterrence:

·       Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus): Often called the "mosquito plant," citronella is widely used in insect repellents.

·       Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): Contains citronellal, which is known for its mosquito-repelling properties.

·       Lavender (Lavandula spp.): The scent of lavender may help deter mosquitoes while also providing a calming aroma.

·       Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): These flowers contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide.

·       Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Studies suggest catnip oil is more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes.

·       Peppermint (Mentha piperita): The strong scent of peppermint may help keep mosquitoes away.

·       Bee Balm (Monarda spp.): Also known as horsemint, this plant emits a fragrance that mosquitoes dislike.

·       Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Contains citronellal, similar to lemongrass.

Some Natural Methods to Keep Mosquitoes At Bay

·       Essential Oils: Oils like lemon eucalyptus, lavender, cinnamon, thyme, and tea tree oil have mosquito-repelling properties. You can mix them with a carrier oil or witch hazel to create a homemade repellent.

·       Vinegar: Mosquitoes dislike the strong scent of vinegar. Placing a container of vinegar near windows and doors can help deter them.

·       Incense & Candles: Burning citronella, lavender, or chamomile incense can help keep mosquitoes away.

·       Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Mint, basil, lavender, citronella, and marigolds naturally deter mosquitoes due to their strong scents.

·       Fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so using a box fan in outdoor seating areas can help keep them away.

·       Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so regularly emptying containers like flower pot saucers, buckets, and garbage can lids is crucial.

·       Mosquito Dunks: These contain bacteria (Bti) that kill mosquito larvae without harming beneficial wildlife

Comparison

Natural and chemical mosquito repellents each have their pros and cons, depending on your priorities.

Effectiveness

• Chemical repellents (like DEET and picaridin) are generally more effective and provide longer-lasting protection.
• Natural repellents (like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender oils) can work but often require frequent reapplication.

Health & Safety

• Chemical repellents may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Long-term exposure to certain synthetic pesticides raises concerns about potential health risks.
• Natural repellents are generally safer for humans and pets, with fewer reported side effects.

Environmental Impact

• Chemical repellents can harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies and may contaminate soil and water sources.
• Natural repellents are eco-friendly and biodegradable, making them a more sustainable choice.

Convenience

• Chemical repellents are widely available and require less frequent application.

Natural Repellents may need to be reapplied more often and can be less effective in areas with high mosquito populations.