Mosquito Prevention and Protection

It’s that wonderful time of year of backyard barbecues, pool parties, camping trips and, in general, being outside because it’s finally summer! That also means mosquito season is upon us and the battle against them has begun. With the growing concern of different diseases mosquitoes can pass onto their victims, the importance of protecting yourself and family from bites cannot be understated. Here are our tips to prevent and protect yourself mosquitoes:

Prevention. Prevention is key to the battle of the backyard biters. You should start at the source of mosquitoes and attack their breeding ground: standing water. Mosquito larvae can develop in any amount of standing water – even something as small as the underside of the cap from your kids bubbles. Survey your yard for any standing water sources, such as:

Gutters
Containers or anything that can hold water (watering cans, dog bowls, cans, bottles, etc.)
Birdbaths
Drainage basins
Downspouts
Potted plant basins

Water sources that can not be drained, such as ponds or large fountains, should be treated with a bacterial insecticide or larvicide to prevent future mosquito larvae development.

Mosquito Misting System. Another step you can take to ward off mosquitoes in your yard is to invest in a mosquito misting system. Mosquito misting systems are highly effective at killing adult mosquitoes and environmentally safe.

Go Natural. You could take a more natural approach to repelling mosquitoes by planting plants that will keep mosquitoes at bay. Here are the top plants to naturally repel mosquitoes:

Citronella
Lemon Balm
Marigolds
Lavender
Rosemary
Catnip
Basil
Peppermint
Garlic
Pennyroyal
Geraniums

Finally, you should protect yourself from bites by protecting your skin through the following measures:

Apply bug spray with DEET
Cover up exposed skin by wearing long pants and sleeves
Burn a citronella candle
If you’re around a fire, throw a little rosemary or sage in the flames

Prevention and protection from mosquitoes should be made a priority during your outdoor summer activities. If the wrong mosquito bites you, you could suffer the consequences of getting sick causing you to miss out on the sunshine and fun. Take our advice and keep yourself and family safe from mosquitoes.

For all your lawn and landscaping needs, head to our store at 2120 N. Dixie Highway in Lima. We have all the lawn and yard equipment you need to make your yard perfect.

Sources: http://www.naturallivingideas.com/11-plants-that-repel-mosquitoes/