The long warm days of summer are some of best days of the year. From picnics and barbeques to road trips and pool parties, there is nothing quite like summertime. Unfortunately, along with all the great things summer brings, there are some not so pleasant things that come with summer too. Bugs, flies, mosquitoes, and all types of pests come out from the woodwork as soon as the temperatures warms up to try and ruin all our fun.
If you’re having trouble keeping annoying pests at bay this summer, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with these ten great pest control tips.
1. Keep it dry
With water comes mosquitoes. If you want to avoid mosquitoes this summer, you need to make sure there is no standing water in your yard or kitchen sink. Make sure your drains are working properly and fill in any outdoor holes that may retain rainwater. Also, be sure to remove pots, toys, and other miscellaneous items from your yard that tend to retain water.
2. Ventilate
Basements and attics are notorious for having a dusty, stuffy freeland certain insects thrive in this type of environment. Open windows to help with the airflow in these tight areas, and clean dusty corners, which often serve as cozy homes for termites and spiders.
3. Seal Food
Whether it’s bananas on the counter or leftovers still on the stove, nothing attracts pests more than free food left out in the open. Pack up those leftovers in a plastic container and store your fruits in the fridge to avoid flies.
4. Check Windows
Do you ever wonder how little gnats and flies are getting into your home even when you keep doors and windows shut tightly? You may have a problem with the seals around your windows. Contact a professional to ensure your home has no gaps where pesky insects can enter. As an added bonus, this will also help with your heating and cooling costs.
5. Landscape
Unfortunately, mulch is a breeding ground for a host of little pests, but by keeping your landscaping trimmed and clean, you can combat this nuisance. As a stronger fix, you can switch out your mulch for creative landscaping such as rocks, pebbles, or a nice desert look.
6. Use Plants
There are certain plants that flies and mosquitoes tend to avoid, and these are perfect to put out on your patio or in your home. Try growing some mint, rosemary, basil, lavender, and lemon grass to help keep flies and mosquitoes away.
7. Fan Them Out
Any little bug with wings knows to avoid fans at all costs. In strong blowing air, bugs can’t control their flight path and get tossed around. If you’re in a pinch and want to keep the bugs away, turn on the ceiling fans or an oscillating fan to not only keep cool but to also avoid flying insects.
8. Close Garbage
We all know how bees and ants love a nice open garbage bag. It may be common sense, but make sure you keep your garbage covered or closed if you don’t want to attract every pest in town.
9. Exterior of Home
It’s a good idea to take a look at your roof every few years to see if it’s still in good condition. This is a sneaky little way for insects to get inside your house. Also take a look at the landscaping closest to the walls of your house, and remove and rake away any leaves, grass, or debris that could harbor pests.
10. Contact the pros
When all else fails, you need to bring in the big guns. No one can get rid of pests like a good professional pest control company. An experienced pest control service can evaluate your pest problem and develop a customized plan to help rid your home and yard of pests all summer long.
Don’t let annoying pests ruin your summer fun. Follow these great pest control tips for a memory filled, pest free summer!
