Mosquitoes can ruin an otherwise pleasant summer evening. If you enjoy gathering with friends and family outdoors, take steps to repel mosquitoes from your property. These annoying insects cause itchy bites and can spread disease. Here are a few tips to make your property less appealing to mosquitoes this summer.

1. To Repel Mosquitoes, Use Mesh Screens

If your windows have screens, make sure they’re in good condition with no holes or gaps around the edges. If you don’t have screens installed, add them this summer. You can also install a screen door to allow airflow but keep mosquitoes out of your home.

For a less expensive option in doorways, there are mesh screens available that attach to the doorframe. These screens close with magnets and keep mosquitoes out while providing good ventilation.

You can also use screens around your outdoor living areas. Add screens to the gazebo or around the perimeter of your porch so you can enjoy time outside without being bothered by insects.

2. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water. If you have a pond, birdbath, or other water feature, make sure to treat the water so mosquitoes won’t lay their eggs there. Check your property for other sources of stagnant water. Keep the gutters clean and make sure to empty planters, the wheelbarrow, buckets, and pet bowls so mosquitoes won’t have a place to breed near your home.

3. Use Repellents to Keep Mosquitoes off Your Property

There are various types of mosquito repellents that are effective at reducing the number of mosquitoes around your home. The most common ones are bug sprays that you apply directly to help keep mosquitoes at bay. You can also find repellent wipes made with essential oils rather than chemicals.

Citronella candles are another great choice for outdoor use. These candles have fragranced wax that is infused with essential oils. The scent of the oil repels mosquitoes and keeps them out of the immediate area.

Look online or at a local store for lawn torches to help repel mosquitoes. These torches burn scented paraffin fuel and can be placed around the yard to provide illumination while also repelling bugs.

4. Plants to Repel Mosquitoes

To keep insects away naturally, choose mosquito repellent plants for your garden and flower beds. There are many types of plants known for warding off insects including lavender, marigold, catnip, and basil. Add these plants to your gardens or plant them in pots to display on your porch or backyard deck. Mosquitoes don’t like the smell and will stay clear of the area.

Nico Home Inspections provides home inspections in Southeast Florida. If you’re buying or selling a property, contact us to schedule our services.