From splashing in the pool to outdoor grilling, summer has many advantages. Unfortunately, there is one major downside to summer—mosquitoes. These pests have a habit of leaving you with a red, itchy bump. Protecting yourself from mosquitoes starts with understanding why they’re hanging out in your yard. We’ve made a list of things that could be attracting mosquitoes to your yard.
Moisture
Mosquitoes need moisture to lay eggs. Objects that collect water can cause mosquitoes to head to your yard. Pet water bowls, birdbaths, empty flowerpots, toys, and old tires can all lead to moisture build-up. These pests will also take advantage of clogged gutters.
Tall Grass & Overgrown Vegetation
Mowing your lawn isn’t a fun summer activity, but it can help keep mosquitoes away. Mosquitoes look for sheltered areas to hide. Tall grass and overgrown plants provide mosquitoes protection from the wind.
Piles of Leaves
Mosquitoes love warm weather, but they also need a break from direct sunlight. Piles of leaves provide shelter from the sun. They also give mosquitoes a place to hide until the wind settles down.
Stacks of Branches & Wood
While mosquitoes need water, too much of it can be problematic. Piles of branches and wood can keep mosquitoes dry during a heavy rainfall. It’s also a shady and protected spot for these pests to escape sunlight or threats.
Light
Mosquitoes use natural sources of light to help them navigate. While they aren’t attracted to light, they will try to use it to help them travel safely. Artificial lights can disorient them, causing them to fly near the light source. Light can be used to help them find you.
Flowers
Not all mosquitoes want to drink your blood. Only female mosquitoes feed on the blood of a host. Male mosquitoes drink nectar from plants. If your yard is full of flowers, there’s a good chance you’ll spot a few mosquitoes.
People
Unfortunately, female mosquitoes do feed on humans. They can detect the carbon dioxide you release when you breathe. Other factors, including your blood type and clothing, can lead mosquitoes right to you. If you’re spending time outside, there’s always the chance mosquitoes will be attracted to you.
Common Spots Where Moisture Builds
When examining your yard for standing water, you’ll want to make sure you regularly check:
- Gutters
- Flowerpots
- Pet bowls
- Birdbaths
- Kiddie pools
- Tires
- Toys
- Open trash cans
- Wheelbarrows
- Leaking outdoor faucets
- Boats
- Uncovered grills
Tips to Prevent Mosquitoes
You don’t have to let mosquitoes take over your yard. Here are a few tips to help make your yard less attractive to these pests.
- Keep your gutters clean
- Bring pet bowls inside
- Keep your pool clean
- Remove or cover objects that collect water
- Keep your lawn & bushes trimmed
- Remove piles of leaves & yard debris
- Repair window & door screens
- Use an outdoor fan
- Use a Natural Insect Repellent
- Spray your yard with a plant-based insecticide spray like our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Mosquito & Tick Killer
Mosquitoes have three things in mind when searching for a place to live—food, moisture, and shelter. Reducing or eliminating these things can help keep these bloodsuckers away. If mosquitoes are bugging you, we want to help! Check out our Mosquito & Tick Control Bundle for a more family-friendly solution.