During the summer, many of us spend more time enjoying the outdoors. The warm weather will be more pleasant when you take steps to keep mosquitoes off your property. Mosquitoes aren’t just annoying; they pose health risks when they bite. Protect your family from these pesky insects with these tips.

Get Rid of Standing Water to Keep Mosquitoes Off Your Property

Mosquitoes breed and lay their eggs in water. Remove standing water and items that hold water like toys, empty planters, and buckets to eliminate their breeding ground. Clogged gutters with standing water are another prime breeding area. To help keep mosquitoes away from your home, clean your gutters regularly.

Repel Mosquitoes with Plants

Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes and can be placed in pots or in the ground to help keep mosquitoes away. Some of the plants that naturally repel mosquitoes include marigolds, peppermint, citronella, garlic, basil, geraniums, and lavender. These plants are easy to grow in containers or in a flower bed. Before spending time outdoors, rub the plants’ leaves so they release their scent into the air.

Keep Mosquitoes off Your Property by Spraying a Day Ahead

Spray your property with insect repellent the day before an outdoor event to repel any mosquitoes. Use a non-toxic mosquito yard spray that can be attached to a garden hose and saturate the outdoor area following the directions on the packaging.

Use Window and Door Screens

Install screens on exterior doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out of your home. Screening in your porch will provide a mosquito-free outdoor living space. Add some pest-repelling lanterns or candles on the screened porch for another layer of protection.

Keep Mosquitoes Off Your Property

A combination of the above steps will help keep mosquitoes off your property. Additional steps to repel mosquitoes include wearing light-colored shoes and clothing to help prevent bites. Mosquitoes are attracted to darker colors. When enjoying your outdoor spaces, apply bug spray and place citronella candles or torches around your property to help ward off mosquitoes.

Spot On Inspection offers home inspections in Houston and the surrounding area. Contact us to request an appointment.