The summer weather brings sunshine and barbecues, as well as pesky mosquitoes. These pests can carry illnesses and leave itchy bites in their wake. However, there are many ways to keep these insects from invading your space. Below are a few pest control tips to follow this season.

How to Control Mosquitoes This Summer

1. Remove Standing Water

Mosquitoes use water for breeding. These pests lay their eggs in any amount of water, which makes clearing away objects and areas that harbor pools and puddles vital. Dump out buckets, toys, and gardening tools that collect precipitation, and avoid leaving these items out during a storm. Don’t forget to clean the gutters and make sure downspouts are draining correctly. It only takes a few days for eggs to mature and hatch, allowing the young mosquitoes into your yard.

2. Landscape the Property

Keep grass trim and neat, and remove leaves, brush, and other debris. Mosquitoes like shady areas, and overgrown landscaping gives them many places to hide. Maintaining your yard also makes drying easier, which encourages evaporation after rainfall since the sun can hit all areas more easily.

3. Try Citronella

Citronella candles and torches are an effective way to stop mosquitoes from interrupting your summer fun. The oil masks human odors that these pests find attractive while sending out a scent that they don’t like. They are also decorative and will add to your outside decor. Position them around your yard or deck, and place candles on tables or other flat surfaces that you are near.

4. Plant Repellents

Certain plants are natural repellents for mosquitoes. Add horsemint and marigolds to your garden to keep these pests away. You can also plant catnip, which will deter mosquitoes from entering your yard. However, if you or the neighborhood has cats, the plant will attract them, which usually means you will have more excitable felines.

5. Rely on Screens

Screens provide a barrier between you and mosquitoes since the mesh is too fine for them to enter. This also allows the fresh air inside when each window or door has a solid, sealed screen. You can also add screens to enclosed porches and decks so that you can enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your home.

When you need pest control in Leitchfield, KY, call Leitchfield Exterminating. Since 1975 these exterminators have been offering home and business owners comprehensive services to keep everything from termites to bedbugs at bay. Their certified team can assess your property’s troubles and remove the infestation and prevent a future one. They also offer pest prevention programs to keep up with regular pest control. Call (270) 234-1295 for an inspection or visit them online for more information about their services.