Like a moth to a light, mosquitoes are attracted to backyards because they spend 75 percent of their lives in water and choose to lay eggs there.
Because the pests thrive in humid and warm environments, properties located near bodies of water are at greater risk of becoming infested.
But even if your home is located near a creek or river, one expert claims that three steps can ward off the notorious fly from your property.
The TikToker, who shares her pearls of wisdom on the account @doityourselfpestcontrol, explained: “Now the summer is here, your backyard is going to be an oasis for mosquitoes.”
The first golden rule is ensuring there are little to no stagnant bodies of water in your yard, as this is the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.
“Eliminate that because that’s where mosquitoes like to hand out and breed,” the expert told her viewers. “So you’re going to want to check areas that retain water like buckets, tires, drains, gutters, cans, stuff like that.”
Once this step is completed, it is crucial to cut back large bushes, as this will limit the amount of shade available to the insects.
“Mosquitoes like to cool off on the underside of leaves on trees and bushes so by trimming them or removing them all together, we will keep them under control,” noted the TikToker.
Once this is done, use a repellent in your yard to deter any lingering mosquitoes. Citronella and lavender are common and effective essential oils for repelling the pest, as they despise both aromas.
Experts have previously argued that the natural ingredient may be more effective than commercial repellents at warding off mosquitoes.
Last but not least, the DIY expert recommends spraying an insecticide on your bushes, adding: “Whenever you’re doing this, make sure you spray the underside of leaves and avoid spraying pollinating plants like flowers.”
The main objective of these steps is to create an uninhabitable environment for mosquitoes and encourage them to venture elsewhere to lay their eggs.