For millions of Americans, one of the highlights of summer is holding backyard barbecues with friends and family. Sadly, pests like mosquitoes make enjoying a traditional barbecue a challenge. These simple tips will keep mosquitoes far away from your Austin BBQ sessions.
Deploy Smells That Mosquitoes Hate
Mosquitoes tend to avoid certain fragrances like the plague. Spreading those smells around is best accomplished via candles strategically placed throughout the yard. Citronella, peppermint and eucalyptus candles or torches are particularly effective when it comes to keeping mosquitoes away from food and guests.
Break Out a High-Tech Bug Zapper
The bug zappers of yesteryear were loud, smelly and inefficient. Today’s modern bug zappers are far more effective while consuming less power and producing far less noise. A bug zapper that draws less than 20 Watts can be had for under $40.
Invest in Airtight Food Containers
Any time you fire up a grill, you’re guaranteed to attract plenty of insects. Having a wide array of Pyrex containers with airtight lids handy will discourage mosquitoes from swarming the lunch table. Use plastic garbage cans with tight-fitting lids to deny access to scraps.
Have Your House Professionally Fumigated
You can substantially reduce the odds of summer mosquito infestations by spraying for bugs in the spring. Having a pest control company fumigate your home and yard in May will keep mosquitoes away for months to come if they do the job right.
Use Landscaping to Discourage Insects
Overgrown lawns and ornamental plants are like catnip to mosquitoes on the move. Mow your lawn often, trim back hanging vines and plant lavender, peppermint or basil to deter bugs. Eliminate standing water found in birdbaths and depressions in the ground while you’re at it.
Attract Birds and Bugs That Eat Mosquitoes
Using nature to fight nature is one of the most cost-effective pest-control tactics. Making your property inviting to swallows and purple martins can quickly do a number on mosquito populations. Meanwhile, bees and praying mantises enjoy a mosquito meal when the opportunity arises.
Install a Mosquito Misting System
If you want to banish mosquitoes at a moment’s notice, a misting system is the way to go. Mosquito misters are easy to install and fine-tune while delivering the ultimate in bug-control performance. Qualified pest control experts can install a misting system in hours for a reasonable price.
Getting the Most From Your Mosquito-Control Efforts
Keeping an Austin BBQ free of mosquitoes requires an aggressive, multi-pronged approach on all fronts. Contact MosquitoNix and speak to one of our professionals who will suggest some pest-control pointers is never a bad idea. Ultimately, knowledge and experience are the keys to controlling mosquitoes during the long, hot summer months.