{This is the part you take notes.}
One of the things I learned was that mosquitos like to perch on the underside of bushes – so basically, you can’t get to them by just spraying them yourself. (Super, right?) That means you have to take other precautions to keep those pests away. But since I’m not going to put a timer on my summer entertaining, he also suggest another tip:
TIP #3: Whoa on the water.
While we are also talking about water, make sure that you have all leaks and sprinklers fixed as well as any water sources at a minimal so the mosquitos don’t have a place to nest. Keep gutters clean and unclogged so it is unable to hold water as well as make sure your downspouts drain properly, without leaving puddles in the drainage area.
Tip #3: Mind the gaps.
Bugs are always looking for places to live – including the cracks in your walls. So by filling in the cracks with sprayable insulation or even using a small square of folded window screen can help from bugs taking home in your home.
But there are a couple of gaps you actually should increase between you and infestation. First, make sure to trim back your shrubs trimmed back from the walls (basically overgrown plant life just help build easy road ways for critters to get around.) And thinking you’re being so smart to trim your trees and then pile them close to the house to use for firewood? Think again. Your pile just become an apartment complex for termites.
Oh, how fast can I move those limbs, right?
And one more helpful tip he offered is if you find tick or fleas in your yard, you probably have another problem – a much bigger pest that is keeping them happy and fed. (That’s a whole other discussion that includes rats, squirrels, opposums…)
TIP #5: Go green and plant your own insecticides.
Disclaimer: There was no compensation or services rendered in exchange for this post. Metroguard Pest Control provided only their time and knowledge for the purpose of this review.
Jessica says
My trash is right by the door. I’ve got to fix that! Great tips!
Jenn says
These are great tips! Especially the one about filling in the cracks. I was outside playing with the kids last week and noticed some creepy looking flying bug (not a wasp or bee?) flying in a crack between some bricks near my garage. YUCK! I need to take care of that ASAP and re-mulch my flower bed. Thanks for the reminders. š
My Fashion Juice says
Oh wee, I love tip #5. Planting sage, mint or jasmine is a way better alternative to sprays and other chemicals. Didn’t know about that so thank you for such a helpful tip!
Crystal says
Gnats are evil! I use cups of vinegar to get them. š
Excellent tips! (and over-watering is a big deal.)
Debra says
Yikes……I hate bugs! Very good tips, especially with West Nile around here in Texas!
Angelo Evangelista @ Peeler Environmental says
Good call on getting some pros to look at your situation. While products and other info on how to get rid of pesky bugs are readily available, just spraying them will only be a temporary solution. The tips he gave should help in making sure the bugs are gone and will stay away.