No Bugs Allowed

They say that everything has a price — and the price of warm weather is the nasty bugs that try to ruin our fun. I’ve had many outdoor parties that have moved inside because I wasn’t prepared for the onslaught of uninvited guests — not aunts and uncles, but mosquitoes and flies! I’ve learned a few tricks and I’d like to pass them on to you.

Tips to keep bugs away:

• Make sure your lawn is kept cut.
  • 2 ½ to 3 ½  inches is the ideal height for your lawn’s health, and that works for bugs too.
• Keep the area free of leaf litter and debris.
• Have covered garbage bins nearby so people can dispose of garbage quickly.
• Lavender, lemongrass, marigolds, mint, sage, catnip, and beautyberry will help to deter bugs.
  • Plant these in your gardens and in containers. Get creative and plant hanging baskets full of an assortment of bug-fearing plants.
• Citronella candles and torches look beautiful, add ambience, and will help ward off mosquitoes.
• Remove any standing water.
  • Ponds are wonderful accents but make sure the water circulates.
• Don’t overwater your lawns and gardens.
• Prune trees to allow the sunlight in.
  • Bugs usually prefer moist, shady areas.
• If you live in an area that backs onto ravines, forests, or other green space, consider putting a barrier of cedar mulch or stone around the perimeter of your property.
• For smaller gatherings with friends, outdoor rooms with screen panels will give you protection from bugs.

Ticks are similar pests, but are more serious. Protect yourself and your family.

• Protect your pets during the season with tick prevention products.
  • Not only will it help to keep your pet healthy but it will help stop the transfer from pet to person.
• Wear light clothing, if possible.
  • Lighter clothing will allow you to see the tiny pests more easily.
• Check your clothing when coming in from outdoors always.
  • Ticks are normally found on the legs, but I have picked two off my grandson’s neck.
• Spray tick repellent sprays on your clothing.
• If you have the opportunity to shower after enjoying your time outdoors, do it.
  • Showering won’t kill ticks, but it will help to remove any that have not had a chance to attach themselves.

I hope these tips will help you enjoy your outdoor entertaining this summer. I know it isn’t fun to be worried, but if you are prepared, there is no need to worry.

Have a happy summer!

Kathy