Natural options for around your yard
There’s a good reason why many natural insect repellents include ingredients such as peppermint and lavender oils. These oils, along with the plants they originate from, are well-known for their ability to deter biting insects. In fact, people in Europe often plant these species in their gardens to reduce mosquito populations in their outdoor spaces. You might consider following suit by cultivating some bug-repelling plants around your barbecue area.
Some effective options include geraniums, lavender, marigolds, lemon balm, citronella, and bergamot—the same bergamot that gives Earl Grey tea its unique flavor. If your property is surrounded by pine trees, you’re in luck, as they also help repel mosquitoes. Many of these plants, like citronella, don’t kill insects but instead mask your scent, making it harder for them to locate you. Other plants, such as clove, can act as insecticides in their oil form, according to research published in the Journal of the Florida Mosquito Control Association.
Additionally, if you enjoy gardening and like to mix flowers with vegetables, consider adding garlic, cloves, rosemary, thyme, and basil alongside your floral arrangements. This way, you’ll not only keep pests at bay but also get a head start on growing the herbs needed for your favorite herb-roasted beef tenderloin dish.
Other mosquito remedies to try
Electric fans and citronella candles that deter mosquitoes aren't just the stuff of steampunk fiction; they are practical tools you can use to fend off pesky insects. Electric fans serve two key purposes in keeping mosquitoes at bay. First, they disperse the carbon dioxide you exhale, making it harder for mosquitoes to locate you. These insects depend on the scent of carbon dioxide and your body odor to find their targets. If they can't detect your scent, they can't find you, and if they can't find you, they can't bite you.
Moreover, while mosquitoes are persistent flyers, they lack the strength to combat strong winds. The powerful gusts from a fan can easily keep them at a distance, as they struggle to navigate through the airflow. Therefore, setting up a few large fans around your outdoor gathering not only keeps you cool but also helps you avoid bites.
Lastly, citronella candles are effective at repelling those annoying biters. Unlike many chemical repellents, they emit a pleasant lemony fragrance that is far more enjoyable during dinner. These candles obscure your scent and the carbon dioxide you release, making it difficult for mosquitoes to track you down. Most importantly, they allow you to enjoy grilling without the nuisance of bites.
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