The best part of summer? Family time in your back yard!
At Green Solutions – we believe in creating the outdoor spaces you crave. We believe in offering exceptional end-products for you to enjoy for years to come. And, we believe in offering solutions to your every outdoor need…and, with every summer comes those pesky little backyard invaders – MOSQUITOS! We’ve pulled together some ideas for you to rid your exterior spaces of summer’s least desired yard-guest.
Water Sprayer
1. Mosquito Misting Systems
There are several mosquito misting systems, such as the MistAway Mosquito Misting System, which use insecticides to eliminate the pests from your outdoor space. Most systems are either tankless or drum-based systems that can be activated by remote control or set on a timing schedule.
The active ingredient most commonly used in these automated systems is called pyrethrin, which is derived from the extract of a certain variety of chrysanthemum flowers. There are man-made pyrethrin botanicals called “permethrin” as well, which are low in toxicity to humans and mammals. Find out more at mistaway.com
When the system is activated, tankless mosquito misting systems mix a fresh batch of the misting formula. The homeowner can specifically program the dose rate and tailor the amount of active ingredient that’s used.
The drum-based system has a 55-gallon drum made of molded plastic and a soft waterproof cover. When it’s activated, an agitation cycle turns on and keeps the solution well mixed to ensure even distribution of the insecticide.
You can have a system professionally installed by an authorized dealer, but DIYers can easily find the systems online and install one themselves. Consider setting up spray nozzles around the eaves of your house, around outdoor living areas and the pool — sort of like a sprinkler system.
Air Curtains are an effective tool for keeping away outside intruders
2. Air Curtains
Air curtains, like the model shown in the photo, can be found here online. Air curtains have traditionally been used for customer entrances, drive-up windows and concession stands. Today they’re often used in residential outdoor living spaces or doorways. Installation and maintenance are easy.
Mosquito traps aren’t as simple as catching them…
Another option is a portable Mosquito Magnet trap. It runs on propane and batteries and lures mosquitoes into a trap. One unit covers about an acre. Mosquito Magnet Portable Trap.
Traditional mesh curtains can alleviate mosquito problems and look great.
4. Traditional Methods
Mosquito citronella candle in a pail.
Citronella candles use Cymbopogon (lemongrass) as the active ingredient. Plant it in your garden and you may get some of its insect-repelling benefits. But the oil in the plant is what repels the mosquitoes, so it needs to be released by either crushing, drying or infusing the plant into an oil or alcohol base and applying it to your skin, clothing or outdoor space.
Buying the candles themselves tends to be the most inexpensive choice available. Citronella oil or candles are widely available in decorative forms, such as this candle.