Having a garden is such a pleasure, but mosquitoes can spoil even the most beautiful of summer evenings. These annoying insects not only cause itching with their bites but can also transmit diseases.
To fully enjoy your green space and organise unforgettable barbecues, it’s therefore essential to find effective ways to keep them away.
Know your enemy better
Mosquitoes go through four stages of development: egg, larva, pupa and adult. Understanding their life cycle can help you reduce their numbers in your garden.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, such as ponds, puddles and containers left outdoors. Watch out for saucers too: even two fingers of water can become a receptacle after a few days (as well as ruining the roots of your plants).
Eliminating these sources can significantly reduce their numbers in your garden. Also remember that a well-maintained and regularly mown lawn reduces the number of places mosquitoes can hide. Remove leaves and debris that may accumulate.
Natural remedies to keep mosquitoes at bay
Repellent plants
Some plants are known for their mosquito repellent properties. These include citronella, lavender, rosemary and mint. Planting these herbs in your garden will not only look good but will also help keep mosquitoes away.
Citronella essential oil
Citronella essential oil is a very effective natural repellent. You can use citronella candles or prepare a spray by diluting the oil in water, to be sprayed in the areas where you spend the most time.
Do you also want your repellent to become a garden decoration? Place citronella oil burning lamps around your garden!
Home-made traps
Making mosquito traps is simple and can be very effective. One of the most common solutions is to use a plastic bottle cut in half and filled with a mixture of four tablespoons of sugar, 15 grams of brewer’s yeast and 25 ml of warm water. Mosquitoes will be attracted to the mixture and become trapped.
Fish and amphibians
Some fish, such as goldfish, and amphibians, such as frogs, feed on mosquito larvae. By introducing them into your garden, if there is a small fish pool or pond, you can naturally reduce the mosquito population.
“Technological” solutions to combat mosquitoes
Anti-mosquito lamps
Mosquito lamps emit a UV light that attracts and eliminates them on contact. They are particularly useful during outdoor evenings.
Electronic repellents
Electronic repellents emit ultrasounds that disturb mosquitoes, driving them away. These devices are safe for humans and pets and can cover large areas of the garden.
Use of fans
Did you know that fans are an excellent way to keep mosquitoes away? They are not strong at flying so even a light breeze keeps them away.
Physical barriers
Mosquito nets are an effective way to create physical barriers against different types of insects, including mosquitoes. The nets can be used to cover and protect garden loungers, porches and other outdoor areas.
Chemical products
Repellent sprays
Sprays are available with different formulae, some containing DEET, a chemical substance which is very effective. Remember to read the instructions carefully before use.
Treatments for your lawn
Lawn treatments with insecticides can help reduce the mosquito population. It is important to choose environmentally safe products and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Keeping mosquitoes out of your garden requires a multiple approach, combining natural, technological and chemical solutions. Try different methods to find out which one works best for you!
