Minimize Mosquitoes With These Landscaping Tricks

Posted on: 28 May 2017

If you're tired of a swarm of bloodthirsty mosquitoes invading your evening barbecues, it is time to rethink your landscaping strategy. By making a few simple changes, you can minimize the mosquitoes in your outside spaces. 

Give Your Lawn a Makeover

When tackling a mosquito problem, not only do you need to deal with the existing mosquitoes, but you also have to take steps to prevent the birth of future mosquitoes. Standing, stagnant water is a common breeding ground for mosquitoes. Though you may know that you need to empty water from old wading toys and canisters, it is simple to overlook one source of standing water: your grass.

If your lawn does not drain well, water can accumulate, especially after a heavy rainfall, giving mosquitoes the perfect place to breed. You have a few alternatives when dealing with a poorly draining lawn. One option is to install a drainpipe or drain in the area where water tends to accumulate.

Another possibility is to plant a rain garden. A rain garden is full of plants that require extensive watering. You can then direct water from your lawn to the garden by installing a creek bed.

Some landscaping components, such as a bird bath or koi pond, require the use of standing water. Fortunately, you don't have to eliminate these items from your yard. Instead, treat the water with bacillus thuringensis; this is a natural bacteria that kills mosquitoes. You can also add plants to your pond; these plants help oxygenate the water and prevent it from becoming stagnant. 

Opt for Plants that Repel Mosquitoes

Fill your garden with plants that are natural mosquito repellents. Some of the most popular mosquito repelling plants include lavender, marigolds, citronella grass, basil, and rosemary. Mosquitoes usually avoid these strong smelling plants.

Wormwood is another plant that repels insects, including mosquitoes. Many homeowners like to have it as a border around their lawn or garden. However, due to the toxicity of wormwood, avoid using it around edible plants or in areas frequented by pets. 

Bring on the Birds

Many birds like to snack on mosquitoes. Draw more birds to your property by incorporating bird houses into your lawn's landscaping. Hang the birdhouses around plants that attract birds, such as wildflowers.

If you plan to add bird feeders in your yard, hang the feeders away from flowers that are sensitive to sunflower seeds. Sunflowers seeds, a common component in bird feed, contain a substance that stunts the growth of other plants.

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