Mosquitoes are real pests, but they’re more than just annoying. They can carry dangerous diseases like West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Although there were no reported cases of EEE in MA in 2021 and West Nile cases were in the single digits, you still want to remain vigilant and keep mosquitoes away from your family and friends. And, let’s be honest, they’re really annoying, and you don’t want your nice evening spoiled by swatting bugs all the time. Luckily, AllGreen Lawn Care has the mosquito control solutions you need for your home in Massachusetts.
If you need mosquito control before we get there or have some spots that need a bug repellant boost, here are some DIY mosquito control ideas.
Avoid standing water
The simplest preventive measure you can take against mosquitoes is to clear any standing water in your yard. Mosquitoes lay around 100 eggs at a time, so it is easy for their population to get out of control. We usually think of mosquitoes as preferring swamps to lay their eggs, but they’re not that picky. Any pool of still water will do. After it rains, pour off any water that pools in flower pots, furniture covers, or kids’ toys and play areas.
Burn some citronella
Citronella is an essential oil obtained from the leaves and stems of varieties of the lemongrass plant. It is a natural insect and animal repellent that has been approved for use in the United States since 1948. While it’s not as powerful as chemical bug repellents like DEET, it is still pretty effective, especially in small areas. Burning citronella candles or torches can keep the mosquitoes away from your porch or patio.
Turn on some fans
Mosquitoes are less of a problem when it’s breezy, but what if there’s no breeze? Make your own with an oscillating fan or two. Mosquitoes are tiny and have a hard time flying against any wind, so a few strategically placed fans can keep them away.
Get a bug zapper
When it comes to mosquito control in MA, bug zappers can be a very effective tool. Bug zappers put out UV light that attracts mosquitoes and other bugs and then electrocutes them. Many people use bug zappers as a last resort. They emit a hum while running that some find irritating, and they attract more than just mosquitoes and other pesky bugs. There are plenty of harmless insects around your yard that will get caught in the bug zapper, too.
Pest Control from AllGreen
Any DIY measures that you take will only go so far in controlling mosquitoes. For long-term, effective solutions, turn to AllGreen for MA mosquito control. We’ll take care of the bugs so you can enjoy your lawn all spring and summer.