It doesn't fully feel like summer until the Fourth of July. Whether you're leaving early to stake out a spot at the local fireworks show, splashing in the pool or grilling with friends and family, you're most likely going to be outside, which means falling prey to mosquitoes. Remain mosquito-free while you celebrate your freedom with these tips to combat mosquitoes naturally.
Freedom from Mosquitoes... Naturally
1. Turn On a Fan
Mosquitoes are lightweights. A fan blowing at a speed of two miles per hour is overpowering to a mosquito. Strategically place fans around your deck or patio to get a good bug-free breeze going. Your guests will thank you!
Thai lemon grass contains citronella oil, which has a strong scent that makes it more difficult for mosquitoes to find you. Lemon grass also happens to be a beautiful mounding perennial. Plant some on your property wherever your family and friends like to hang out for a beautiful, bug-free zone.
3. Dress Appropriately
Certain species of mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors like black, blue and red (which can limit your Fourth of July fashion choices). They are also attracted to heat. Stay cool by wearing lighter colors. While you're at it, avoid wearing any scented perfumes or lotions (whose artificial fragrances are not the best for you anyway!).
4. Change Your Lightbulbs
Mosquitoes are not attracted to all kinds of light -- just some. Instead of standard bulbs, opt for LEDs, yellow "bug lights" or sodium lamps to reduce the number of mosquitoes swarming as you go in and out of the house during evening hours.
5. Apply Catnip Oil
The essential oil in catnip, nepetalactone, repels mosquitoes more effectively than the unhealthy chemical DEET. We can't promise it will keep your neighbor's cat away, but it does serve as an effective insect repellant.
6. Build a Bat House
A bat can eat hundreds of insects, mosquitoes included, in under an hour. Build or buy a bat house, hang it in a well-ventilated area, and let those web-winged creatures become your private body guards.
7. Spray On Garlic
That's right -- garlic not only repels vampires, but insects, as well. Mix one part garlic juice with five parts water. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spritz yourself as needed.
8. Remove Standing Water
Standing water is where mosquitoes breed more mosquitoes. Avoid by clearing your gutters of clogs, filling in sunken parts of your lawn and regularly changing the water in your bird bath or kiddie pool.
9. Use A Natural Insect Spray
Before heading outside, put together your own natural bug repellant or pick up some at your nearest health food store. Essential oils and vinegar are great natural alternatives to chemical-based bug sprays that will keep sneaky mosquitoes away -- as long as you reapply every two hours.
These tips are a sure-firework way for you to stay safe, happy and healthy this Independence Day... the American Dream!Source: http://homes.yahoo.com/news/10-ways-to-combat-mosquitoes-naturally-160831018.html?page=all
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