Spring is here and summer is fast approaching. While you might be thinking of hosting a barbeque in your backyard, there are certain pests that can turn a peaceful evening into a miserable, itchy experience: mosquitoes.
If you are a homeowner in Memphis, this problem is even more concerning. Memphis is known for its warm, humid weather that creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.
If you’re tired of swatting mosquitoes away every time you step outside, this guide will show you how to effectively prevent and control them in your backyard.
Why Are Mosquitoes a Problem in Memphis Backyards?
Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions, making yards in Memphis an ideal habitat. With the state’s long, hot summers, pests get an extended breeding season. Your backyard offers them:
- Standing water in planter trays, water containers, clogged gutters, or plant saucers. These areas are perfect for laying eggs.
- Shade and vegetation where adult mosquitoes rest during the day.
- Humans and pets as consistent blood sources for feeding.
To get rid of mosquitoes effectively, you need a thorough approach: prevention, elimination of breeding sites, and ongoing control measures.
5 Steps To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes In Your Backyard
#1 Eliminate Standing Water
The single most effective way to get rid of mosquitoes in your backyard is to eliminate their breeding sites. Female mosquitoes prefer to lay their eggs in stagnant water, and just a few tablespoons are enough.
There are several places where the water can pool in your home’s backyard. Walk around the area and identify any object or surface where water collects. Here are some common areas:
- Clogged gutters (gutters filled with dust and debris)
- Old tires or garden equipment
- Low-lying areas of your yard that don’t drain properly after it rains.
- Even small things such as birdbaths, tree holes, or a plant saucer can be perfect areas as they trap water.
How You Can Stop Water Pooling
- Clean your gutters regularly, as clogged gutters could be harboring hundreds of mosquito larvae.
- Fill in depressions with soil and improve drainage to prevent water from pooling.
- Empty and refill bird baths with fresh water at least once a week.
- If you have pet bowls or kiddie pools outside, ensure you change the water regularly.
- If you have a pond or fountain in your yard, consider using mosquito dunks or larvicides.
#2 More Focus On Lawn Maintenance
Mosquitoes don’t just need water. They also need shade and shelter provided by cool, damp areas in your yard, such as overgrown grass, dense bushes, and unkempt landscaping. Keeping your yard tidy makes it less appealing to mosquitoes. This is why we stress proper lawn maintenance.
This includes mowing your lawn regularly. By keeping your grass trimmed, you reduce the areas where these pesky bugs can hide.
Also, pay attention to the bushes and shrubs. Trimming overgrown vegetation will allow more sunlight and improve airflow. This will make your lawn less hospitable for mosquitoes.
Leaf piles, wood stacks, and yard debris are another haven for mosquitoes. These shaded, humid spots give them a perfect place to rest. Rake up leaves, dispose of grass clippings, and store firewood neatly and off the ground. The less clutter in your yard, the fewer hiding spots mosquitoes will have.
#3 Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants and Landscaping
If you’re looking to keep mosquitoes away, adding certain types of plants to your garden can help. While no plant will completely get rid of them, some varieties are great at repelling these bugs.
For instance, lavender, citronella grass, and marigolds give off scents that mosquitoes don’t like. By planting these around areas where you hang out, like your patio or walkways, you can create a nice barrier that helps keep them at bay.
Lavender, in particular, is a great addition to flower beds or planters. Its pleasant aroma is a natural repellent. Citronella grass, often used in mosquito-repelling candles, is even more effective when grown directly in the ground or in large planters. Marigolds not only keep mosquitoes away but also repel other garden pests.
What About Landscaping?
When planning your landscaping, be mindful of how you use mulch. While it can improve your garden’s aesthetics, thick layers of mulch retain moisture and create a humid environment mosquitoes love. Use it sparingly and avoid over-mulching shaded areas.
#4 Use Effective Mosquito Control Methods
Mosquito Foggers and Sprays:
Foggers and other outdoor sprays are useful in getting rid of mosquitoes, especially if you are hosting a gathering outside. These provide immediate mosquito relief.
Foggers release a mist of insecticide over a wide area, killing adult mosquitoes on contact. On the other hand, mosquito sprays work directly on bushes and shaded areas where mosquitoes rest. However, they are more suitable for short-term relief only.
For ongoing protection, mosquito misting systems can also be a good idea. These are more effective and offer a long-term solution
Mosquito Traps:
CO2 mosquito traps are another effective way to control mosquito infestation. These devices mimic human breath by emitting carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes. Once drawn in, the mosquitoes are captured and killed. While traps can significantly reduce the number of mosquitoes in your yard, they work best when used alongside other control methods. You can find the best traps at your local hardware store.
Fans and Air Circulation:
Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so creating airflow around seating areas makes it harder for them to land. Setting up outdoor fans on your patio or deck can reduce the number of mosquitoes in the immediate area. This simple solution is particularly effective for small gatherings or barbecues.
Outdoor Lighting:
Mosquitoes are attracted to certain types of light, particularly bright white or blue-tinted bulbs. To reduce their presence, switch to warm-colored LED bulbs or yellow “bug lights”, which are less attractive to mosquitoes
Also Read: How Much Does Mosquito Control Cost In Memphis, Tennessee?
#5 Hire Professional Mosquito Control Services
If mosquitoes remain a persistent problem despite your best efforts, it may be time to call in the professionals.
Professional pest control services have the expertise and equipment to identify hidden breeding sites and apply targeted treatments. They use specialized insecticides and larvicides that are more effective than most readily available products.
How To Protect Yourself From Mosquito Bites
It’s also a good idea to protect yourself and your guests when spending time outdoors.
- One of the easiest things you can do to avoid mosquito bites is to use insect repellent. Choose an EPA-approved repellent.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting shirts and pants when you plan to be outside for long periods.
- If you’re hosting an evening event, provide guests with repellent for added protection.
Note: For additional defense, consider using outdoor mosquito-repelling devices. Thermacell units, for example, create a mosquito-free zone without the need for open flames or strong odors.
Take Back Your Yard From Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes shouldn’t ruin your outdoor experience. By eliminating breeding grounds, maintaining your lawn, and using effective control methods, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population in your backyard.
If you’re still battling mosquitoes, consider enlisting the help of a professional pest control company. At Jamison Pest and Lawn, we offer comprehensive mosquito treatment plans tailored to Memphis homeowners. Contact us today at (901) 452-1505 for an inspection and take the first step toward a mosquito-free backyard.
