You installed some new two tone porcelain tile flooring over that ugly concrete pad, picked out the perfect furniture set, and hung up those string lights that make your backyard feel like magic. It was a labor of love, but you finally checked “update patio” off of your home renovation list. And just in time for summer!
But there’s just one little thing getting in between you and your beautiful backyard patio — mosquitos. When these flying insects show up, the party is officially over and everyone wants to seek shelter inside. Fortunately, there are some simple things that you can do to make your home less appealing to these annoying pests. Yes, that means your home renovation list just got a little longer, but don’t worry. The extra effort will be well worth it when you’re able to relax in peace!
Start by ridding your backyard of any standing water, which can attract mosquitoes to your home. You can also strategically install or place fans to blow air away from your seating area and create a mosquito-free zone. If the problem is really persistent, a screen gazebo or patio enclosing can be an effective repellent. Or if you’re lighting your DIY fire pit at night, add some sage or rosemary. The incense released from these plants when burned acts as an insect repellent.
In addition to those proven ways to keep mosquitoes away, properly maintaining your yard can also help. Regularly trim grass and brush to avoid any shady spots that mosquitoes might like to call home. Some backyard patio plants can also act as a natural mosquito repellent themselves. Because of their strong scent, these plants can help make your patio a more enjoyable, pest-free spot this summer. They can even complement the colors in your beautiful two tone tile! Here are five of our favorites:
- Basil
This culinary herb is not only delicious but also useful at stopping mosquito infestations. Since basil has shown to be toxic to mosquito larvae, planting it in your backyard makes it less likely that eggs will be laid there.
- Lemon Balm
This natural bug repellant comes from the mint family and has a zesty lemon aroma. Since lemon balm grows vigorously, you will not want to plant it next to other backyard plants. Put a pot of lemon balm on your patio to ward off mosquitoes.
- Catnip
Another member of the mint family is catnip. You’re likely familiar with this plant because of its commonly known feline attraction. But while your furry friend might love catnip, mosquitoes do not. Catnip contains nepetalactone, an essential oil that acts as an insect repellent and is ten times more effective than DEET.
4. Peppermint
If you want to repel mosquitoes, consider planting peppermint in your backyard. This aromatic herb is dangerous to insects at all levels of maturity, so it can help in warding off adults as well as killing larvae and eggs.
- Lavender
Lavender is another plant from the mint family, but you wouldn’t necessarily know that from its scent. This flowering plant has a sweet smell that can fill the air — even outdoors. Plant some lavender around your patio for a pop of color, aromatherapy, and to keep mosquitoes away.
At The RTA Store, we help make your dream home a reality with RTA (ready to assemble) and pre-assembled cabinets and accessories. Whether it’s your kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, home office, home bar, or TV room, we offer the same (if not better) quality you would find at any retail store, but for a fraction of the price. Stop by our website or give us a call, and let us make your dreams come true with the help of our free room design service.
