Spring has arrived, and Summer will be here before we know it. And, like most Arkansans, you understand the importance of getting outside. Whether it’s camping, having a picnic, or just watching your children play in the yard, you shouldn’t let mosquitoes and other flying insects force you to stay inside.

Here are some tips on how to enjoy the outdoors this summer without spending all your time swatting bugs:

Eliminate their habitats. Standing water is where mosquitoes lay their eggs, so keep your trash cans covered, and avoid leaving things in the yard that can collect rainwater. Keep your yard mowed regularly, and prune bushes and yard vegetation. Pull the weeds from your gardens and flowerbeds, and plant flowers or herbs that repel bugs. Garlic and citronella are natural insect repellents, and marigolds contain natural insecticides that not only kill mosquitoes, but also attract mosquito predators like dragonflies.

Use nets or screens. If you live in a rural or suburban area, particularly near a wooded area, a screened-in porch is a relatively inexpensive home improvement that can more than pay for itself on resale. And any retailer that sells camping gear will carry a variety of portable nets in different sizes.

Set a trap. Mosquito traps are inexpensive, and available in the lawn and garden section of most retailers or hardware stores. You can also create a makeshift trap by adding some dish soap to a bowl of water.

Use chemical repellents. Bug spray is a must for outdoor activities, but if you’re looking for a more natural alternative, there are also oil-based products using natural ingredients. A couple of citronella candles or tiki torches can make a big difference, and many essential oils also have repellent properties. It’s also a good idea to treat your lawn and vegetation with insecticides that contain pyrethroids.

Get a mosquito treatment plan. The Bug Man offers one-time and summer mosquito treatment plans from April to October of each year. Having your yard treated by a professional is by and far the most effective method of mosquito prevention.

The local insect population is on the rise, but they’re no match for people that are ready for them. The Bug Man is central Arkansas’s leader in pest and wildlife management, and we’re standing by to help you get prepared. For more information, or to schedule a free estimate, click here or give us a call at 501-663-9464.