Keep bird baths clean to discourage mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are an annoying pest that breed rapidly and love to bite humans and pets, leaving an itchy red bump. It is difficult to get rid of mosquitoes completely, but their population can be controlled by slowing their breeding. Mosquitoes breed in water, so getting rid of water supplies in your backyard is key to fighting mosquitoes. Some years mosquitoes will be more of a problem than other years. During these times it is necessary to wear long sleeves and pants and use bug spray to keep the mosquitoes from biting. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Empty any stagnant water from containers in the backyard. This includes wading pools, empty cans, tires or watering cans. Turn them upside down so they can't collect any more water, or remove them from the yard completely.
2. Empty, scrub and refill any remaining containers once a week. This is only for containers that can't be removed, such as bird baths. Keeping them clean removes mosquito larvae and helps keep the mosquito population under control.
3. Use natural repellents such as citronella candles and bug sprays to keep remaining mosquitoes away. Spray bushes and the lawn with a mosquito repellent before having a backyard gathering. This method only lasts a few days, but provides relief if you are having people over.
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