Many people appreciate the clear skies, crisp mountain air, and the smell of pine in the breeze during summer evenings in Bend. But the presence of mosquitoes can quickly ruin the backyard peace. These buzzing pests can leave itchy bites and spread diseases, so they are never welcome on anyone’s property.
Many people reach for chemical sprays to keep mosquitoes away, but they have other options. Those who want to keep their property free of these blood-sucking insects do not have to put harsh chemicals into your outdoor space. Bend pest control near me includes taking the following steps:
Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. Removing water wherever you can find it is the first step in any mosquito prevention plan.
Walk around your yard and look for spots where water collects. Empty plant saucers, buckets, toys, and clogged gutters. Also, change the water in your birdbath every few days. Add a fountain or pump to keep the water moving in your pond or water feature.
Choose Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Some plants give off smells that mosquitoes don’t like. Thankfully, many of these plants are easy to grow in Bend’s climate.
Try planting lavender, citronella, marigolds, rosemary, and basil in pots around your patio or directly in garden beds. This will add color and fragrance to your yard, and help make the space less appealing to mosquitoes.
Let Nature Help Out
Bend is home to many natural mosquito predators such as birds, bats, and frogs. Making your yard more inviting to these helpful creatures can reduce mosquito populations without doing much work yourself.
Birdhouses and bird feeders attract swallows and other insect-loving birds. A bat house can draw in these nighttime bug hunters, who can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in one evening. Planting native shrubs and flowers will encourage a healthy, balanced ecosystem where mosquito predators can thrive.
Try Essential Oil Sprays
Homemade essential oil sprays can be a gentle and chemical-free option if you want a more hands-on way to keep mosquitoes away from your sitting areas. Eucalyptus, lemongrass, peppermint, and tea tree oils can repel mosquitoes. Just mix a few drops with water and spray around patios, chairs, or near doorways. Always test essential oil mixtures on a small area first to make sure they do not damage surfaces or plants. Also, be cautious if you have pets, as some essential oils can be harmful to animals.
Keep Your Lawn Trimmed and Tidy
Mosquitoes like to rest in cool and shady places during the day. They can hide in overgrown grass, tall weeds, and thick bushes. Mowing your lawn and trimming your landscape regularly make your yard less comfortable for mosquitoes to hang out. Clean up fallen leaves and branches to prevent mosquitoes from setting camp on your property. Also, ensure mulch beds are well-maintained and not too thick.
Seek Help From Local Experts
Pointe Pest Control offers pest preventive measures without relying on heavy chemicals. CEO Jacob Borg focuses on safe and family-friendly pest solutions designed for Central Oregon’s unique climate. The company’s technicians can identify mosquito breeding areas and create a plan that works with your yard.
Use Mosquito Nets and Fans for Outdoor Comfort
Adding a few physical barriers can help keep mosquitoes off your skin if you enjoy spending time outdoors in the evening. Mosquito nets or screened gazebos work great for backyard dinners or relaxing by the fire pit. A simple oscillating fan on the patio can help. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and struggle against moving air. These tools are especially helpful during peak mosquito times, which usually happen right after sundown and again at dawn in Bend.
