Learning how to rid yard of mosquitoes organically calls for a holistic approach to the problem. From removing potential mosquito breeding areas to using beneficial insects and animals to keep mosquito populations down, a comprehensive plan will yield good results and help keep your home environment safer.
How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes Organically - The Basics
One way to learn how to rid yard of mosquitoes organically is to research the various natural ways of controlling the mosquito population.
Environmental Controls
For mosquitoes to breed, they need standing water. If you're diligent about keeping all sources of stagnant water off your property, you'll help limit mosquito populations around your home. Check the following sources for standing water often during warm weather months:
- Birdbaths
- Old tires
- Clogged gutters
- Planters
- Ponds
- Pool Covers
- Decorative garden ornaments with depressions
- Grills
- Trash cans
- Window wells
- Deadwood
- Compost piles
- Rain barrels
Take a few moments to walk around your yard after a spring or summer rain to check for problem spots that accumulate water. Once identified, discard, clean or fix potential mosquito incubators quickly.
If your property is adjacent to public lands, monitor any standing water and call your public health extension office to report mosquito activity and discuss organic options.
Plants to the Rescue
Use nature's own mosquito repellent to make visiting mosquitoes less likely to hang around your yard and breed or bite. The following easy to grow plants will help repel mosquitoes:
- Citronella
- Rosemary
- Basil
- Catnip
- Garlic
- Marigold
Most of these plants have strong aromas that will help keep insect vampires away. To maximize your coverage, group plants near decks or patios, doors, windows and any water features in your landscape.
If you want a prepared solution that will use concentrated plant extracts to help control mosquitoes, a number of organic pesticides use garlic as their main ingredient. Keep them handy though, because the effects wear off more quickly than non-organic, Deet based, solutions. In addition to keeping mosquitoes away, they are also effective at repelling fleas, gnats, and ticks.
Another option is a mosquito magnet. These devices are powered by propane, so they aren't an ideal organic solution. They are very effective, and have less environmental impact than some conventional pesticides. The hefty price tag of $200 to $400 may deter you though, and they won't win any beauty contests.
Critters to the Rescue
If you live in an area that has an abundance of wildlife, natural predators may do some of the work of controlling mosquitoes for you. While the insects are feasting on you, other creatures are finding them pretty tasty. If you see any of the following animals or insects around, leave them alone. They may be doing you a big favor.
- Mosquito Fish
- Bats
- Tree swallows
- Toads
- Frogs
- Dragonflies
Other Options for How to Rid Yard of Mosquitoes Organically
If you need some relief while you're waiting for other measures to take effect, foil mosquitoes by making yourself less of a tasty target:
- Wear pastel colors, like pink, pale blue or yellow.
- Lose the flowery deodorant, shampoo, hair gel and body lotion. Many prepared scents used in personal care or cosmetic preparations are like ringing a dinner bell for mosquitoes.
- Rely on the old standbys to make your time outside more pleasant. Citronella candles, menthol and dryer sheets all work to keep mosquitoes out of your hair temporarily.
