Mosquitoes may be your number one nemesis during the summer months because of the itchy bites that they leave behind, but don't be fooled, mosquitoes are one of the most deadly animals on the planet because of the diseases they spread. A single mosquito bite can spread West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and dengue fever. Don't let your BBQ be ruined by swarms of mosquitoes on your property. Have a safe, itchless season with a few helpful hints.
What Attracts Mosquitoes And How To Keep Them Away
Mosquitoes come to your property for a few reasons: they need blood in order to reproduce, and they need a nice, inviting home of still water to lay their eggs. A few ways Milford homeowners can control what attracts mosquitoes to their property and how to reduce mosquito populations include:
- Remove stale water. As mosquitoes need wet, cool areas to lay their eggs, try emptying out areas of stale water regularly. Spots that are highly hospitable are: trash can lids, grill coverings, birdbaths, flowerpots, and pool covers. Even something like a planting pot that has pooled water can be construed as ideal. By not allowing water to grow stagnant, you will take away the mosquitoes’ prime location for laying their eggs.
- Plant natural repellents. Try planting greenery and vegetables like cucumbers, basil, gardenia, and lemongrass, all of which are natural pest deterrents for mosquitoes and other nuisance pests. Just be cognizant about the proximity of your garden to your home, as these plants may attract pests such as wasps.
- Clean up the yard. Places like clogged gutters and yard debris are also a lovely place to breed if you’re a mosquito, so be sure to clear out gutters and remove yard debris in a timely manner.
- Remove pet food. If you feed your pets outside, be sure to bring your dog dishes inside as soon as they're done. This is another cool, moist place that will absolutely attract mosquitoes.
Preventing Mosquito Bites
Believe it or not, no one in Milford is immune to the itchy bites of a mosquito. Did you know that genetics are primarily responsible for determining who gets bitten by mosquitoes and who does not? That said, there are a few key factors that will attract mosquitoes (i.e. blood type, drinking alcohol, and wearing dark clothing), but there are definitely ways to mitigate those chances:
- Wearing lighter-color clothes that are also loose-fitting is said to deter mosquitoes. Additionally, aim to wear clothing made of synthetic fibers that are woven close enough should keep the mosquitoes off of your skin.
- Since mosquitoes are most prevalent during dusk and dawn, aim to minimize the time you spend outdoors during this time.
- Insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient (such as picaridin or DEET) will be a great help. Citronella candles also contain lemongrass, which is a deterrent for mosquitoes, so using them in your backyard or wherever you are spending time outdoors should help keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Strong smells, such as sweet perfume and body odor, are enough to attract mosquitoes. Try practicing good hygiene with unscented items to lessen the probability of getting swarmed by mosquitoes.
The most effective way to keep mosquitoes away from your property is with assistance from the professionals at Big Blue Bug Solutions. Call the team for a plan of action today.