Spring is finally here, and while this time of year is beautiful in South Florida, there are also a lot of bug problems to contend with in and around the home. Mosquitoes, in particular, are very difficult to deal with in the spring and summer and can make going outside unpleasant. How can you control these pests so that you can continue to enjoy the outdoors? The following mosquito control tips will help you over the spring and summer months.
1. Tidy Up Outside to Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Your Yard
As soon as possible, tidy up your lawn, eliminating any areas of standing water so that mosquitoes aren’t as attracted to your property. It is also a good idea to clean out your gutters, trim your grass and remove any debris from your lawn. Keep in mind that you need to do this periodically throughout the spring and summer to keep your property in good condition. It doesn’t take much for mosquitoes to set up shop and start to breed. Some vigilance on your part is required if you want to avoid those nasty bites this year.
2. Landscape with Plants that Repel Mosquitos
Have you considered putting in a few new plants this year? Why not improve your landscaping and help your mosquito problem all at the same time! There are a few plants that mosquitoes just don’t like. For instance, the citronella plant deters them, which is why it is often found in insect repellants. Citronella does not grow well in colder areas but has the potential to do very well in South Florida because of all the sun. Marigolds are another excellent choice. Not only do they look nice, but mosquitoes don’t like their smell either. A few other options include peppermint, basil and lavender.
3. Use Mosquito Repellent to Prevent Mosquito Bites
If you continue to get bitten each time you step outside, mosquito repellent is the next step. There are a lot of options on the market, but it is best to look for one that is 100 percent DEET. If you are wary about using the repellent on your body, simply spray or rub it onto your clothing instead.
Another option is to cover as much of your skin as possible with your clothing. While it is true that mosquitoes can bite through clothing in certain situations, you will cut down on the number of bites you receive if you put on long sleeves or pants. Of course, that may not always be a viable option if you are going to spend a lot of time in the hot Florida sun.
4. Get Professional Mosquito Yard Treatment
When all else fails, have a pest control company come out and put up a barrier treatment to keep the mosquitoes away. At Excel Termite & Pest Control, we offer a monthly mosquito treatment program in the spring and summer to help keep your yard mosquito-free. Opting for professional mosquito treatment means that you won’t need to use as much bug spray or be as vigilant about covering up when you go outside.
Mosquitoes can be a huge problem in South Florida. They breed quickly, and before you know it, they can negatively impact the time you spend outside. However, our services extend beyond mosquito control. If you're also dealing with pest issues at your residential or commercial property, contact us for residential pest control and commercial pest control services tailored to your specific needs. Excel Termite & Pest Control is here to ensure your property remains pest-free, whether you're at home or at work. Get a jump on these issues by preparing for pests right away.
For more information regarding Mosquitoes read our Mosquitoes FAQ page.
