Mosquitoes can turn a relaxing evening on the patio into a frustrating, painful battle. Instead of kicking back with your feet up, you’re swatting at microscopic pests and walking away with several itchy bites. Not only are mosquitoes annoying, but they can also carry diseases, making them a health hazard as well.
Fortunately, there are plenty of strategies to help keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor living spaces. Here’s a quick guide that will help you make your patio less inviting to mosquitoes—and more welcoming for you!
Eliminate standing water.
Most people know that mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. What they might not realize is that even a tablespoon of water is enough for mosquitoes to lay their eggs in. Addressing any standing water in your yard will help you stop a mosquito problem at its source. To do this:
- Change water in pet bowls daily, or keep it inside.
- Empty and scrub bird baths at least once a week.
- Store buckets, flowerpot saucers, and watering cans upside down when not in use.
- Keep gutters clean (water tends to collect in piles of debris).
- Identify low spots in your yard (where rainwater may pool) and fill them in, if possible.
Mostly, be mindful of where water collects and do what you can to eliminate the problem.
Add mosquito-repelling plants.
Some plants naturally repel mosquitoes with their scent or oils. Incorporating these plants can help reduce mosquito numbers around your patio, especially in high-traffic areas. These plants include:
- Citronella grass: Contains oils used in many repellents
- Lavender: Most humans love it, and most mosquitoes don’t, making it a win-win option.
- Basil: Great for cooking, and naturally deters flies as well
- Marigolds: Colorful flowers that contain pyrethrum, an insect-repelling compound
- Catnip: Some studies say it’s more effective than DEET when it comes to repelling mosquitoes. (However, it will likely attract cats!)
Keep in mind that these plants are unlikely to eliminate mosquitoes completely, but they can help.
Use outdoor fans.
Mosquitoes are small, weak fliers. Even a gentle breeze makes it harder for them to navigate towards and land on humans. Oscillating fans, placed around the patio, will keep the air moving, which will make the area less appealing to mosquitoes.
Be strategic with your fan placement. Position fans near seating areas, and direct airflow downward for maximum impact.
Install patio screens or netting.
If you use your patio often (or want to), consider investing in mosquito netting or screened-in enclosure. These options can help you enjoy your patio without having to constantly fight off bugs or other pests. If you’d rather not set up anything permanent, even temporary solutions (like pop-up canopy tents or curtain-style mesh panels) can make a big difference.
Try natural repellents.
Chemical repellents like DEET are undoubtedly effective, but many people prefer gentler options for everyday patio use. Essential oils like lemon, eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil can deter mosquitoes. (Make sure you dilute the oils before applying them to the skin.)
You can also make your own patio spray by mixing water, witch hazel, and a few drops of the essential oil of your choice in a spray bottle (choose from the above list).
Remember that if you do want to go the more natural route, you’ll likely need to apply or spray more frequently.
Choose your lights carefully.
Mosquitoes are attracted to heat and to certain types of light, including traditional incandescent bulbs. Swap these bulbs out for yellow “bug lights” or warmer-toned LED bulbs, both of which are less appealing to insects. You can also use candles infused with citronella or lemongrass oil, which create a cozy glow while adding another layer of mosquito deterrence.
Maintain your landscaping.
Mosquitoes prefer shady, damp areas during the day. They tend to hide in places like:
- Tall grass
- Overgrown shrubs
- Piles of fallen leaves
- Dense bushes
To avoid attracting mosquitoes, keep grass and shrubs trimmed and pruned, and rake and remove piles of leaves promptly. Not only will this help keep pests away, but you’ll get the added benefit of an outdoor space that looks clean, fresh, and inviting.
Use mosquito coils or torches.
Mosquito coils, which release insecticidal smoke when lit, are inexpensive and effective for small areas. Similarly, tiki torches burn citronella or cedar oils to help create a protective zone around your patio. Remember to burn safely: keep flames away from anything flammable, and extinguish them completely after use.
Use traps.
Mosquito traps lure insects in with light, heat, or carbon dioxide; then the insects are captured or killed. This option is great for reducing large numbers of mosquitoes in a concentrated area. Try propane-powered traps for larger yards, or an electric UV trap for your patio.
Schedule patio time wisely.
Mosquitoes tend to come out at dawn and at dusk, especially in the warmer months. When possible, plan your outdoor activities for times when mosquitoes are less active, such as late morning, midday, or after dark.
Invite natural predators.
Bats, dragonflies, birds, and certain types of fish (like guppies) all feed on mosquitoes. A birdbath (preferably with a fountain, to keep the water moving), a bat house, or a small pond with mosquito-eating fish can help reduce the mosquito population naturally.
Dreaming of a mosquito-free patio? With a little planning and upkeep, it’s possible! Try combining several of the above methods to help you deter mosquitos, reclaim your outdoor living area, and make your evenings more peaceful—and less itchy.
Rustic Creek Landscaping provides custom landscape design services in Queen Creek and surrounding areas. Contact us today to speak with one of our talented designers to discuss the
