No one likes mosquitoes, and if you’re looking to get rid of them around your home, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are natural ways to reduce or eliminate these annoying pests. Here’s a list of effective methods to keep mosquitoes at bay, without resorting to harsh chemicals.
First, let’s not forget that mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance—they’re linked to serious diseases like malaria, West Nile virus, dengue fever, and the Zika virus, which is spread by the Aedes mosquito. While chemical insecticides are an option, they can cause allergic reactions and kill beneficial insects, so why not try these natural methods instead?
1. Stop Mosquitoes from Breeding
Mosquitoes need stagnant water to breed, so eliminating standing water around your home is key. Get rid of any puddles or water collections in your yard, as this prevents larvae and pupae from maturing into adult mosquitoes.
2. Drain Tree Holes
Water can get trapped in the holes of large trees, creating an ideal breeding spot for mosquitoes. Drain these areas, and you can even coat the water’s surface with a small amount of vegetable oil to stop larvae from developing.
3. Fix or Remove Water-Holding Containers
Make sure to repair or cover anything that holds stagnant water, like old rain barrels or clogged gutters. If you have water storage containers like cisterns or wells, cover them to prevent mosquitoes from accessing the water.
4. Empty Pot Saucers and Kids’ Pools
After watering plants, don’t let water sit in the saucers under your pots. These tiny pools can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Similarly, always empty kids’ wading pools when they’re not being used, and refresh birdbath water at least once a week.
5. Cover Rain Barrels
Fit a fine mesh screen over your rain barrels to let water in while keeping mosquitoes out. This simple step can prevent them from accessing the water and laying eggs.
6. Plant Eucalyptus Trees
Eucalyptus trees can help dry out damp areas and marshy spots where mosquitoes like to breed. Plus, the scent of eucalyptus is known to repel mosquitoes naturally.
7. Grow Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Planting sassafras, sweet basil, and lemongrass around your home—especially near patios, doors, and windows—can help keep mosquitoes away. Lemongrass, in particular, looks great in large pots on decks while serving a practical purpose.
8. Stock Your Pond with Fish
If you have a pond, stocking it with goldfish can help control mosquitoes, as they’ll feed on the larvae. Just be sure to avoid mixing fish species that might eat each other rather than the insects.
9. Use Homemade Repellents
You can find a variety of homemade mosquito repellent recipes online. One example is soaking fleabane or pennyroyal leaves in hot water, then using the mixture as a spray around your plants. Garlic oil is another option—simply cook garlic in oil, strain it, and spray it on your plants to deter mosquitoes. Citronella candles, lemon balm sprays, and homemade mosquito traps are also effective for outdoor gatherings.
10. Use LED or Yellow Bug Lights
Mosquitoes are attracted to light, but not all types. Swap out regular bulbs for sodium lamps, yellow “bug” lights, or LEDs, which won’t draw mosquitoes to your outdoor spaces. You can also use oil lamps or citronella candles to keep mosquitoes away while you enjoy time on your patio.
By using these natural methods, you can enjoy a mosquito-free yard this summer without relying on chemicals. Have any other tips for repelling mosquitoes naturally? Share them with us!
