Mosquitoes are very common pests. You would be hard-pressed to find any area in North America that does not have to deal with these pesky little critters. Often, mosquitoes are nothing more than an annoyance. But other times, they can mean more serious problems. Some individuals have severe reactions to mosquito bites. Other times, mosquitoes can carry diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue, and malaria that can become serious and life-threatening very quickly. For whatever reason you want to keep these common pests out of your life, here are some ways to do it.
No Standing Water
As the saying goes, prevention is the best medicine. One of the best things you can do to keep mosquitoes from taking over your home and living space is to make the environment less hospitable toward them. A key step in prevention is to make sure that you do not have any standing water around your home. Mosquito eggs need water in order to hatch, so ponds, small puddles, and even a water-filled bird feeder can create a haven for them. Regularly dump and disturb standing water in order to prevent giving mosquitoes what they need to multiply.
Citronella Essential Oil
When you wish to spend a relaxing evening outdoors and are pestered continually by your little flying friends, give essential oil of citronella a try. This oil can be found in outdoor candles, and if you are the crafty type of individual, you can even make your own. This repels mosquitoes and helps make outdoor gatherings bearable.
Essential Oil Spray
Citronella is not the only essential oil that helps get rid of these pests. Create your own spray out of a variety of essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, geranium, and lemongrass. Add several drops of each to a spray bottle and fill the remainder with water. Spritz the area around your home with this mixture often when you are outside.
Garlic
Who knew that an odor that often bothers humans can bother mosquitoes too? Raw garlic is a great way to keep mosquitoes away from your home. Crush a few garlic cloves, boil them in water, and put this mixture into a spray bottle. Spray it around outside your home to keep unwanted guests from inhabiting your living space.
Outdoor Plants
Shrubs can be a great way to keep mosquitoes far away from where you reside. Plants such as marigold and mint can create an atmosphere that mosquitoes want no part of. Surround your home with these plants and you will see the protection they offer.
Mosquitoes are quite literally a pain, but there are many ways to keep them at bay. Avoid reaching for chemicals such as DEET, as many have been linked to health problems for the old and young alike. When the weather is beautiful, and the time of year brings you into mosquito season, keep these amazing natural methods on hand. You will be thankful that you can live without both mosquitoes and dangerous repellents, and can now be left to enjoy this time of year the way you are entitled to.
