Using Landscaping to Repel Mosquitoes - MosquitoNix
The fight against mosquitoes is an ongoing one. That’s why MosquitoNix®® offers a number of professional tools to use against these pests, including professional mosquito control services and products such as our On the Go Portable Misting System.
But did you know your own lawn can be a weapon in the battle against mosquitoes? We've found several landscaping tips and techniques to help you take control of your yard while maintaining its beauty. Keep reading to learn some simple ways to create mosquito-repellant landscaping around your property.
Incorporate Mosquito-Repellant Plants
Are there really plants that repel mosquitoes? This has been a controversial topic over the years. Some people claim that there are, while others say there is no scientific evidence that plants keep mosquitoes at bay. Consumer Reports recently weighed in on the subject, clarifying that some plants do contain phytochemicals that mosquitoes and other insects don’t like and don’t want to feed on. So, what plants repel mosquitoes? Certain types of marigolds and chrysanthemums, as well as catnip, lavender and basil, are among some of the common plants that mosquitoes find distasteful.
That said, just because bugs are repelled from eating the plants doesn’t mean they’re necessarily repelled from coming into your yard. So, it might be a good idea to add these plants that keep mosquitoes away from your yard - rather than plants that tend to attract mosquitoes, like water lilies and butterfly bushes - but it should be combined with other anti-mosquito measures to make more of an impact.
Get Rid of Wet Spots and Standing Water
When it comes to how to get rid of mosquitoes outside, it's well-known that many mosquito species lay their eggs in stagnant water. This means you should do two things in your yard:
- Reduce the number of man-made objects that can collect standing water. These include buckets, old tires, garden carts and kids’ toys. Permanent fixtures such as fire pits should be covered when not in use.
- Look out for natural areas that accumulate water. Cover any long-lasting mud puddles and swampy areas with a layer of stone. You can add topsoil and reseed to restore a uniform look.
Move the Water You Have
If you have a natural or man-made water feature, then at least keep the water moving. Add pumps, fountains and other water-circulating devices to your ponds and birdbaths. Even moderate amounts of movement can produce enough current to prevent mosquito eggs from developing. (And since mosquitoes can lay 100-200 eggs at a time, that’s a lot of baby mosquitoes buzzing around your property!)
Let the Air Flow
Wind is an excellent mosquito repellent, as these pests are not good fliers and will get tossed around even by light breezes. Because of that, tall shrubs, walls and heavy foliage can help mosquitoes thrive by blocking the wind. Removing these features entirely - or at least enough of them to allow good airflow - will help you fight back against mosquito onslaughts. For porches, decks and other outdoor entertainment areas, add oscillating overhead fans or railing fans to create an unstable environment for mosquitoes that is also decorative. (Plus, adding fans can help keep you cool!)
Enlist the Help of Other Animals
Make pest control a team effort by offering a friendly habitat for mosquito-eating animals. For instance, sometimes we get asked, “Do bat houses help with mosquitoes?” The answer is yes, bat houses - also sometimes called bat boxes - can help. That’s because they help keep these mosquito-eating creatures near your property, thus culling the mosquito population. Birdhouses can be helpful too: Purple martin birdhouses, for example, will entice these birds, which also feed on mosquitoes, to your yard. And don't be so quick to rip away spider webs or swat dragonflies, especially if their presence isn't affecting the rest of your landscape; they eat mosquitoes too.
If you have specific questions for MosquitoNix® about landscaping for mosquito control, contact our team of experts. We can even provide a free quote on MosquitoNix® services that can help protect your home or business from those flying insects. Mosquitoes are not just annoying, but also potentially dangerous, so we’re passionate about helping people avoid them on residential and commercial properties.
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