Summer means backyard barbeques and time spent with friends and family outdoors. There’s no time like the present to learn how to keep mosquitoes off your property. Here are a few of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to repel these pesky bugs.

Plant Natural Repellents to Keep Mosquitoes Off Your Property

Many popular plants naturally repel mosquitoes. Grow them in your flower beds and add planters to your front porch and backyard deck. Some common varieties include marigold, citronella and other scented geraniums, bee balm, peppermint, and lemon balm. In some garden centers, you’ll find candles that are scented with essential oils from these plants. Purchase a few candles to burn outdoors when you have guests.

Install Screens on Doors and Windows

Many homes have screens installed in windows and doors to keep bugs from entering the home. Upgrading or repairing the screens will help keep insects out of your home. If you don’t already have a screen door, install one, even if it’s just to use seasonally during the summer months.

Another way to keep mosquitoes from bothering you is by installing mesh tents around patio areas. These affordable enclosures allow people to move in and out of a patio area without letting bugs, specifically mosquitoes, inside.

Get Rid of Stagnant Water to Keep Mosquitoes Off Your Property

Mosquitoes breed in moist, humid areas. Puddles and pools of standing water provide the perfect environment for these insects to lay eggs. Take a walk around your property and dump containers of water. This is especially important after rainfall.

Keep the gutters free of clogs so water can flow freely. Leaves, twigs, and other debris that clog the guttering create small pools that are large enough for mosquitos to breed.

Use Citronella Torches

Another helpful way to repel mosquitos is to purchase and use outdoor torches with citronella-scented fuel. These torches are available at garden centers and home improvement stores and are inexpensive and simple to set up. The combination of the flames and the scent of the fuel helps to keep insects away.

Encompass Home Inspection Service provides home inspections to customers in New Jersey. Contact us to schedule our services.