Mosquito Control: How to Avoid and Repel Mosquitoes Naturally

Even before the West Nile virus, people disliked mosquitoes. They are an unpleasant nuisance and can ruin an enjoyable summer evening. The best defense against mosquitoes is to avoid being bit. Understanding what attracts mosquitoes is as important as understanding what repels them. Mosquitoes like:

humidity such as perspiration, moist plants, and puddles.

dark clothes and foliate.

carbon dioxide.

lactic acid-more is released after exercising or eating salty or high-potassium foods.

floral scents located in perfumes, hair products, sunscreens, and fabric softeners.

early mornings and evenings.

still air. Most people know that standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and know to change birdbaths, wading pools, and pet dishes at least twice a week to prevent mosquitoes. They also know to treat larger water sources to prevent mosquitoes. It is also important to check the rain gutters. Make sure they are clean so that water drains out and the gutters dry quickly. You should also walk around your property after it has rained and make sure that nothing is collecting water unnoticed.

Holes and depressions in trees can collect water and are difficult to empty. A simple remedy is to spread cooking oil over the area. Females will not lay their eggs on it and any larvae in the water will be unable to emerge. Using Neem oil, which is a natural vegetable oil from India, is even better because it has natural insect repelling properties known as azadirachtins.

Candles naturally attract mosquitoes because they are sources of heat and carbon dioxide. This is the one time attracting mosquitoes is beneficial as it will keep them away from you. A study done by the University of Guelph found that citronella candles reduced mosquito bites by 42% and citronella incense reduced bites by 24%.

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