Mosquitoes are just another part of summer. Though it’s not likely you’ll ever get completely rid of them, there are some ways you can cut down on mosquito numbers so your outdoor gatherings can be more pleasant. Many of these tips also work at getting rid of ticks, so consider it a bonus, as ticks can carry Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Lawn Maintenance

Mosquitoes and ticks tend to live in grass that is tall, partly because of the length, and partly because if grass is tall that means it hasn’t been disturbed by walking/mowing humans. Keeping bushes and hedges trimmed will discourage ticks.

Standing Water

These pests also settle wherever water collects, so eliminating all standing water is important. Most of us think of this step, but be sure to consider even the smallest areas of standing water, such as clogged gutters, plant saucers, garbage cans and lids and birdbaths.

If you have a decorative pond you can stock it with mosquito-eating fish like Gambusia. Or you can use mosquito dunks which slowly release bacteria that kill bugs when they drink the water. These are considered safe to use near birdbaths and drinking water for animals, but should not be used directly on human drinking water. Though supposedly these are safe to place near areas where animals drink, just to be safe, I probably wouldn’t put these anywhere that your dog or cat might drink from.

Mosquito Repelling Granules

There are a few companies that sell all natural mosquito repelling granules, such as Dr. T’s Mosquito Repelling Granules. These are made of natural garlic and seem to be very effecttive for most people. You sprinkle them all around the yard where people tend to gather. They’re safe to use in or near water and last well even after a few rainstorms.

Green Mosquito Repellent and Larvae-Killing Yard Spray

If you want a simple, broad spectrum solution, then something like MQ7 GreenScience’s Mosquito Outdoor Control is perfect for attaching to the garden hose and spraying a perimeter around your yard where people tend to hang out. It’s made from all natural ingredients and is safe to use around animals and children. The repellent barrier and larvae-killing properties will last about 3 months.

Topical Bug-Repellent that’s 100% Natural

I’d been hearing some good things about Badger Balm Anti-Bug Balm, so I thought I’d give it a test run with the mosquito swarms here in Texas. I love this stuff. It works and doesn’t smell or feel like conventional bug spray. It comes in little tins and also a handy roll-on.