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Summer is here and it seems to me the bugs have started early.  I’m sure the wet spring we’ve had has contributed.  What can you do to limit the bugs in your yard, especially mosquitoes?

• Standing water is the breeding grounds. Empty pails, glasses, bird bath, toys, then turn them upside down.
• If you have spots in your yard where water collects after a rain, resolve the problem with adding dirt and grade the dirt around the house to drain away. This will protect your basement also.
• If you have a pond, adding aeration helps keep egg laying/hatching minimized.
• Check your gutters to make sure they are draining properly without areas of standing water.
• Swimming pools should be filtered, kept clean and covered to minimize the mosquito population.
• Replace outdoor lights with yellow bug bulbs.

And if you do all these – it does not guarantee that mosquitoes will vacate your yard.  After all, they do fly! What is your favorite home remedy?

• A popular one used to be Avon SkinSoSoft. I’m not sure if this product is still availalable?
• Bounce dryer sheets are supposed to repel mosquitos. It is suggested you rub them on your yourself and your clothing.  Has anyone tried this?
• Burning Cintronella candles in your yard/patio/deck should aid.
• Essential Oils – several oils are recommended to keep bugs at bay; Cinnamon, and /or lemon eucalyptus.

If does seem that some people are simply more susceptible or more appealing to mosquitoes and other annoying summer bugs. What’s your remedy?  Would love to hear from you.