How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Your Backyard Natural

Mosquitoes are annoying pests that can ruin your outdoor enjoyment and even transmit diseases. If you want to keep them away from your backyard without using harmful chemicals, there are some natural methods that you can try.

In this blog post, I will share with you 10 ways to get rid of mosquitoes in your backyard naturally.

1. Eliminate Standing Water

The first and most important step to prevent mosquitoes from breeding is to eliminate any standing water in your backyard.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, so you need to remove any sources of water that can be collected in containers, pots, buckets, tires, pool covers, birdbaths, etc.

Make sure to change the water in your pet bowls and fountains regularly, and clear your gutters of any debris that can trap water.

2. Plant Mosquito-Repellent Plants

Some plants have natural compounds that can repel mosquitoes and other insects. You can plant them in your garden or pots around your patio, deck, or porch. Some of the most effective mosquito-repellent plants are:

• Basil: This herb has a strong aroma that mosquitoes hate. You can also make a spray by boiling some basil leaves in water and letting it cool down.
• Lavender: This beautiful flower has a soothing scent that can also deter mosquitoes. You can plant it in sunny areas or dry some lavender buds and place them in sachets around your outdoor seating areas.
• Lemongrass: This plant contains citronella, a well-known mosquito repellent. You can grow it in pots or the ground, and cut some stalks to rub on your skin or make a spray.
• Peppermint: This minty herb can also keep mosquitoes away with its refreshing smell. You can plant it in containers or the ground, but be careful as it can spread quickly. You can also use peppermint oil as a natural insect repellent.
• Rosemary: This aromatic herb can also repel mosquitoes and other bugs. You can plant it in sunny areas or use it as a barbecue seasoning. You can also throw some rosemary sprigs on the coals to create a pleasant smoke that can drive away mosquitoes.

3. Use Natural Oils and Sprays

Another way to get rid of mosquitoes in your backyard naturally is to use natural oils and sprays that can repel them. You can apply them on your skin, clothes, or outdoor surfaces. Some of the most effective natural oils and sprays are:

• Garlic: Garlic has a strong smell that can repel mosquitoes and other pests. You can make a garlic spray by mixing one part of garlic juice with five parts of water and spraying it on your plants, furniture, or yourself.
• Catnip: Catnip is a plant that can attract cats, but also repel mosquitoes. It contains nepetalactone, a compound that is more effective than DEET, a common chemical in insect repellents. You can grow catnip in your garden or use catnip oil as a natural repellent.
• Neem: Neem is a tree that has many medicinal and insecticidal properties. You can use neem oil as a natural repellent, or burn some neem leaves to create a smoke that can ward off mosquitoes.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a natural product that can also repel mosquitoes and other insects. You can dilute it with water and spray it on your skin, clothes, or outdoor areas. You can also add some essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or lemongrass to enhance its effectiveness and smell.

4. Attract Natural Predators

Another natural method to get rid of mosquitoes in your backyard is to attract their natural predators, such as bats, birds, frogs, fish, and dragonflies. These animals can help you control the mosquito population by feeding on them.

You can attract them by providing them with food, water, shelter, and nesting sites. Some of the ways to attract natural predators are:

• Build or buy a bat house and hang it in a well-ventilated area. Bats can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in an hour, and they are also beneficial for pollinating plants and dispersing seeds.
• Install a bird feeder and a bird bath in your backyard. Birds can also eat mosquitoes and other insects, and they can add beauty and song to your garden. Choose bird seeds that are suitable for your local birds, and keep the feeder and the bath clean and filled with fresh water.
• Create a pond or a water feature in your backyard. A pond or a water feature can attract frogs, fish, and dragonflies, which can also prey on mosquitoes and their larvae. You can stock your pond with mosquito fish, which are small fish that can eat mosquito larvae, or use mosquito rings, which are natural larvicides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a soil bacteria that can kill mosquito larvae. You can also add some plants and rocks to your pond or water feature to provide shelter and hiding places for your aquatic allies.
• Plant some flowers and shrubs that can attract dragonflies. Dragonflies are excellent mosquito hunters, as they can catch and eat them in mid-air. You can plant some flowers and shrubs that can attract dragonflies, such as black-eyed Susan, coneflower, swamp milkweed, bee balm, and butterfly bush.

5. Use Fans and Nets

Another simple way to get rid of mosquitoes in your backyard naturally is to use fans and nets.

Fans can create a breeze that can make it harder for mosquitoes to fly and land on you, and nets can provide a physical barrier that can prevent them from reaching you. You can use fans and nets in the following ways:

• Use an electric fan or a ceiling fan in your outdoor seating area. You can adjust the speed and direction of the fan to create a comfortable and mosquito-free zone. You can also add some drops of essential oils like citronella, lavender, or peppermint to the fan blades to enhance the repellent effect.
• Use a mosquito net or a canopy over your bed, hammock, or couch. You can use a mosquito net or a canopy to create a cozy and protected space where you can relax or sleep without worrying about mosquito bites. You can also spray some natural repellents on the net or the canopy to keep mosquitoes away.
• Use a mosquito tent or a gazebo in your backyard. You can use a mosquito tent or a gazebo to create a larger and more enclosed area where you can enjoy your outdoor activities without being bothered by mosquitoes. You can also decorate your tent or gazebo with lights, plants, and furniture to make it more inviting and comfortable.

Conclusion

Mosquitoes are annoying and potentially dangerous pests that can ruin your outdoor enjoyment and health. However, you don’t have to resort to harmful chemicals to get rid of them.

You can use natural methods that are safe, effective, and eco-friendly. By following these 10 ways to get rid of mosquitoes in your backyard naturally, you can create a mosquito-free oasis where you can relax and have fun.

FAQs