You had a plan and transformed your backyard into an ideal space to entertain guests while enjoying the outdoors. However, you may not have planned on backyard pests like mosquitoes, ants and yellow jackets crashing the party. The pest control experts at Healthy Home Termite and Pest Control have compiled a list of the top five tips for a bug-free backyard in Atlanta to help you take back your backyard.
Read the tips and still need help with backyard pests? Contact us for a free inspection.
Get Rid of Standing Water
You are probably aware that standing water attracts bugs, particularly mosquitoes, but have you really inspected your yard and identified all the areas where water can collect? Downspouts and gutters are examples of less thought about areas where water can build up. So, you’ll want to make sure to clean those out regularly. Have a kiddie pool for summer or a bird bath? You’ll want to change that water out as frequently as possible to help prevent a mosquito infestation.
Blow Those Bugs Away
This solution not only repels bugs but the simplicity and effectiveness of it just may blow you away! Try placing a regular box fan outside and pointing it toward your seating area. The wind it creates will stop mosquitos, and other flying pests, from flying near or landing on you. If you usually sit under a patio or in a gazebo you can install an outdoor ceiling fan to help keep bugs at bay.
Get Pest-Proof Plants
Did you know that certain plants and flowers can help repel pesky bugs? Varieties like lemongrass, marigold, chrysanthemum and lavender are known to have properties that can keep pests away. So, incorporating some of these plants into your landscaping plan can serve two purposes: Adding to the beauty of your backyard while keeping pesky bugs away.
Keep it Clean
Long grass, thick brush, weeds, and low-hanging foliage can be big attractants for insects. To keep your yard as bug-free as possible you will want to mow, prune and weed your yard regularly. Clean, kempt landscaping will be an attractive feature for your guests but fortunately, it’s less attractive to bugs than a yard that’s overgrown.
Use Non-Toxic Essential Oils and Sprays
If you are trying to avoid the chemicals in bug sprays and other treatments, essential oils and non-toxic sprays can be a good solution to protect your backyard from unwanted pests. Some of the most effective non-toxic options include:
- Citronella oil or candles
- Bug sprays, torches or candles containing essential oils like peppermint, lemongrass or eucalyptus
- A spray of vinegar diluted with water is great for keeping ants at bay
- Soapy water in a spray bottle also works well for any ants that show up to the party
- Garlic juice diluted with water can serve as a spray-on bug spray that keeps mosquitoes away
Contact Us for Help with a Bug-Free Backyard in Atlanta
If you’ve done all you can to bug-proof your backyard and mosquitoes and other pests are still interrupting your enjoyment of your backyard space, Healthy Home Termite and Pest Control can help. Our experts will supply a safe solution to your backyard pest problem with our odorless and environmentally low impact products. Call us today to schedule a free inspection.