Citronella torches, candles and oil lamps are smelly old standbys for keeping mosquitoes away, but bugs aren’t the only ones who don’t care for their overbearing, lemony fragrance. Although mosquitoes aren’t as prevalent in Arizona as they are in more humid parts of the country, Tucson and Phoenix residents may still do battle with them in the summer months. The pesky, blood-sucking creatures can leave you with relentlessly itchy bites, but more importantly, they can spread diseases like West Nile virus. If your neighbors think you’re performing strange rituals on your patio at night, or your bug candle collection is becoming a fire hazard, try these other effective ways to keep biting pests out of your personal space.
Natural Insect Repellents
- Peppermint oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Basil oil
- Geranium oil
- Clove oil
- Lemongrass oil
- Thyme oil
- Tea tree oil
- Lavender oil
- Blue cypress oil
Living Herbal Deterrents
If you prefer your fragrances come from a living source, the following herbs, flowers and grasses can provide perpetual mosquito repellant action in the area you wish to protect. The following will grow well in the Arizona climate.
- Lemon balm
- Lemongrass
- Rosemary
- Basil
- Bee balm
- Peppermint
Population Control
Another way to protect yourself from mosquitoes is to hinder their ability to reproduce. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, so be sure to remove all sources from your yard. Empty plastic wading pools when they aren’t in use. Remove old cans, jars, buckets and any other items that can collect rainwater. Change your pet’s water daily. Repair outdoor plumbing problems and keep gutters clean. Fill holes in trees with sand. Once mosquitoes have no place to lay their eggs, their numbers will dwindle quickly.
If Mosquitoes Ruin Your Summer Parties, Call Burns Pest Elimination
When your family is being assaulted by mosquitoes, and deterrents just aren’t enough, Burns Pest Elimination can provide effective, professional mosquito control. We have more than 30 years of experience in Arizona pest elimination, so we’re equipped to handle any kind of insect problem you may have. As a local, family-owned business, we offer state-wide commercial and residential service that includes Phoenix and Tucson.
