How to Keep Mosquitoes Away from Your Home and Yard

How to Keep Mosquitoes Away from Your Home and Yard

Mosquitoes can turn a pleasant evening outdoors into a miserable experience. In Central Illinois, mosquitoes are active from late spring through early fall, and their bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus. Here are practical strategies to keep mosquitoes away from your property.

Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, and they can lay eggs in as little as a bottle cap full of water. Walk your property regularly and eliminate standing water from flower pot saucers, clogged gutters, birdbaths, old tires, kiddie pools, and any other containers that collect water. Change the water in birdbaths and pet bowls at least twice a week.

Maintain Your Yard

Keep your lawn mowed short and trim overgrown vegetation where adult mosquitoes rest during the day. Clear leaf litter and debris from around your foundation and landscaping beds. Ensure that drainage systems are functioning properly so water does not pool on your property.

Use Fans on Outdoor Spaces

Mosquitoes are weak fliers, and a simple outdoor fan can create enough airflow to keep them at bay on decks, patios, and porches. Position fans to create a breeze across seating areas for effective, chemical-free mosquito deterrence.

Wear Protective Clothing

When spending time outdoors during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk), wear long sleeves and pants in light colors. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark clothing and exposed skin.

Use EPA-Registered Repellents

Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin and clothing. Follow the product label instructions for safe and effective use.

Consider Mosquito-Repelling Plants

While no plant will eliminate mosquitoes entirely, some plants like citronella, lavender, marigolds, and rosemary may provide a mild deterrent when planted near outdoor living spaces.

Professional Mosquito Control

For the most effective mosquito reduction, professional treatment of your yard can dramatically decrease mosquito populations. Terminix offers mosquito control programs that target adult mosquitoes and breeding sites. Contact us today for a free inspection and enjoy your yard this summer.