Summer is a lively season of barbecues, popsicles, pool parties, and sunshine, bringing friends and family together. However, the warm temperatures can bring some very unwelcome houseguests: summer bugs. To keep your summer get-togethers bug-free and enjoyable, follow these 7 simple steps to keeping your Georgia patio pest free.
Tidy Your Yard
Overgrown bushes, shrubs, grass, and even trees are a breeding ground for bugs of all types, including chiggers, ticks, termites, and mosquitos. Keep these areas of your yard well maintained and manicured to keep pests at bay.
Clean and Repair Your Gutters
Believe it or not, your gutters are a very welcome environment for bugs when clogged, in ill repair, or if they retain water. Make sure you clean your gutters regularly and consider gutter guards. Not only will these help keep your gutters from getting clogged with leaves and debris, but it also helps keep unwelcome pests out of your home. Ensuring that gutters are working properly, including your downspouts, can also prevent water pooling which can harm your foundation and invite mosquitos.
Add Purposeful Patio Plants
Plants can serve dual purposes on your patio. Not only can they add to the overall aesthetic, but they can also help keep bugs away. If you have an issue with ticks, fleas, ants, or bedbugs, consider adding chrysanthemums to your patio. For mosquito control, opt for marigolds or rosemary, which also adds a lovely scent to the area.
Utilize Natural Repellants
Essential oils are more accessible than ever before and the good news is that citronella, lemongrass, sweet orange, lavender, cinnamon, peppermint, and eucalyptus are known to repel bugs. You can use these in patio candles, diffusers, patio lights, lanterns, and torches, or as a natural spray guests can use to ward away these pesky visitors. Don’t have any essential oils available? Try mouthwash! Dilute mouthwash with water in a spray bottle and spray your patio and patio furniture for a fresh smell with
Invest in a Patio Fan
It may seem simple, but adding a fan is a great way to keep your patio cool and pest-free. Mosquitos and flies alike have a difficult time standing up to strong breezes, so keeping a large fan or several small fans going on your patio can be a great defense against pests. Your guests will probably enjoy keeping the Georgia heat at bay too.
Change Your Patio Lighting
Did you know that bugs are able to see short wavelength lights better? That means your lights with cooler tones (white, blue, purple) are more likely to attract bugs. With so many LED lights on the market now, it’s important to choose outdoor lighting that are in the “warm” light spectrum (reds, yellows, oranges). Not only do these create a nice warm ambience in the evenings, but it also doesn’t attract pests to your patio.
Get Help From the Atlanta Pest Control Experts at Healthy Home Termite and Pest Control
For a truly bug-free patio this summer, we recommend getting some help! Our team of premier pest control experts has extensive experience getting rid of summer bugs, especially in the Atlanta area, and are ready to tackle your patio and backyard! Give us a call today at 770-505-9040.