Nothing ruins a pleasant outdoor gathering in Columbus, TX, like a swarm of attacking bugs that bite. It can be frustrating to have a cookout or a get-together ending early because you can’t keep the flies away. Fortunately, there are some techniques you can use to control the insects that arrive uninvited. You can keep your deck and patio bug-free with these DIY repellents.
A Chemical Repellent
A chemical repellent like a bug spray is an effective way to keep bug populations under control in your yard. However, not everyone is comfortable using chemicals. You must use many of them very carefully to avoid injury or illness. Also, there are bug sprays that you can apply to your body that will repel insects. If chemical repellents are an option for you, they can be an important part of your bug-free strategy.
A Rechargeable Repellent
The Thermacell Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller activates an odorless liquid repellent that produces an effect similar to chrysanthemums. According to the manufacturer, pushing the button to activate the small device will create a zone of protection up to 20 feet from the device. That will keep mosquitos away.
Anti-Mosquito Plants
Another technique to keep mosquitoes and insects away is to grow some plants around your patio that repel mosquitoes. By reducing the number of mosquitoes that visit your gathering, you may also be able to reduce the use of chemical repellent. There are many plants that are attractive both in pots and in the ground that you can grow on or near your patio. Try some of these anti-mosquito plants:
- Catnip
- Marigolds
- Lavender
- Scented geraniums
- Rosemary
- Monarda
- Lantana Camara
An Electronic Bug Zapper
Many insects that are pesky in the evening are attracted to lights. An electronic bug zapper uses a bright light to attract insects, eliminating the problem when it gets too close. Choose a durable zapper that is pet and child-proof. However, one drawback is that these devices can also kill beneficial insects that would typically eat mosquitoes.
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Mosquito Dunks
Preventing mosquitoes from becoming biting adults is another way to ensure that your gatherings are less pest-filled. Try to avoid any standing water in your yard, and check hidden water traps like the saucers under your planters. But if you have a bird bath or another water feature, you can add some mosquito dunks that will kill the mosquito larvae for up to one month.
Creating a pleasant gathering place with fewer bugs and pests is possible. Many people have the most success when they use several tactics. With some DIY, your deck can become a safe, bug-free haven.