Nothing beats a tranquil summer evening spent outside on your porch, deck, or patio—until you’re getting attacked by mosquitoes. These pesky bugs seem to be everywhere this summer, especially with the North Carolina humidity causing them to be even more active. And if you happen to live near a body of water, they’re even worse, given mosquitoes use standing water for breeding. Even flower pots or clogged gutters can be a breeding ground. If you’re sick and tired of having to continuously shoo mosquitoes away while you’re trying to enjoy the outdoors, keep reading for some natural bug-ridding remedies.
Artificial Turf
Installing artificial turf can help reduce mosquitoes as it eliminates standing water thanks to its excellent drainage system and lack of soil, which retains moisture. Natural grass, on the other hand, has low and uneven surfaces that trap water. Turf also doesn’t have the same food resources for insects, and eliminates the need for fertilizers and pesticides (also an attractor of pests). For more info on natural grass vs. turf, read our past blog here!
Plants
There are a host of plant types that help repel mosquitoes, including lavender, basil, sage, rosemary, and lemon eucalyptus. These plants smell delightful to humans, but not so great to mosquitoes. You can also crush the leaves of lavender and lemon eucalyptus and rub on your skin to act as a natural repellent, while combining rosemary with apple cider vinegar and water creates an anti-mosquito spray. Sounds like it’s time to get that garden going!
Natural Repellents
Mosquito repellent now comes in many natural forms, including candles, incense sticks, lotions, sprays, balms, wipes, and more. You can choose to deck out your outdoor space with candles, cover your skin with the safe formulas—or all of the above. Raleigh-based Murphy’s Naturals is a great local option for stocking up on a ton of great plant-based protections!
Fans
If you can, stock up your outdoor space with fans—whether it be a small portable one, ceiling/standing fan, or the popular “fly fans” typically seen on patio tables at restaurants and bars. Moving air makes it harder for mosquitoes to land on you, while also keeping away other pesky bugs like flies.
Craving Outdoor Space? Give Us a Buzz!
In search of a home with outdoor space? Whether you prefer a porch, deck, patio, or covered option that’ll protect you from mosquitoes entirely, we can help find you a home with the perfect match. Give us a call at 919-961-3277 or send us an email at Annie@HudsonResidential.com to start chatting with us about options around the Triangle!