Deterring Mosquitoes in Your Yard

Every year in Minnesota, homeowners spend way too much time fighting a never-ending battle against annoying mosquitoes in their yard. 

The team at West Metro Lawn & Snow is frequently asked “how can we deter all these mosquitoes?!” First and foremost, we always encourage our clients to sign up for our six-round Mosquito Control Program - which is a barrier spray treatment for mosquitoes (and ticks, too)! We have received awesome feedback about the success of this program!

Beyond that, our top suggestions to our clients to fight against mosquitoes include the following:

Eliminate Standing Water
Did you know that standing water serves as the breeding ground for mosquitoes? We strongly encourage clients to take a look around their yard to find any standing water that may be hiding. Common locations for standing water include water bowls for pets, bird baths, and children’s pools and water tables. Eliminating standing water when possible will prevent female mosquitoes from laying their eggs.

Maintain a Debris-Free Yard
It is no secret that mosquitoes (and ticks) commonly hangout in tall grasses, untrimmed shrubs, woodpiles, and weeds. Ensuring that your grass is regularly cut, shrubs are appropriately trimmed, and weeds are treated during the green season will eliminate the favorite hangouts of those pesky mosquitoes!

Clean Your Gutters
This tip ties in very closely with the last two! Gutters that are full of twigs, leaves, dirt and other debris often turn into the perfect warm, wet habitat for mosquitoes. We often remind customers that clogged gutters equal standing water (and ultimately the perfect spot for female mosquitoes to lay eggs)! Keep your gutters clean and clear!

Purchase Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Lastly, some of our clients find it helpful to introduce mosquito-repelling plants into their yards and gardens. Some of the most commonly known mosquito-repelling plants include citronella grass, lavender, marigolds, basil, rosemary, and peppermint. These plants emit smells that mosquitoes simply do not like! Ultimately, this is another suggestion that may make your summer more peaceful this year.