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Tips for a pest-free patio and porch this summer

The warm seasons are the perfect time of year to get outside and enjoy the weather. Whether it's firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or simply relaxing with a book on your patio, our outdoor spaces become an extension of our living area. However, you might love your patio even more if it weren’t for those pesky flies, mosquitoes, and other bothersome insects. Although pests embrace the weather as much as you do, you don’t have to share the same space with them. Learn how to keep bugs away from your patio with these tips and tricks!

What attracts bugs and other pests to your patio or porch?

The best way to win the battle on how to keep bugs away from your patio is to understand what's attracting them in the first place. Flies, mosquitoes, and other pests are attracted to patios for several reasons beyond food and water. These pests are especially drawn to areas with shelter and breeding sites. Overgrown vegetation, piles of leaves, and even outdoor lighting can attract bugs by providing ideal hiding spots or warmth. Scented candles, perfumes, and body lotions can also lure mosquitoes and flies closer, as they are attracted to strong odors and carbon dioxide exhaled by humans. Maintaining a clean and decluttered outdoor living space reduces these attractions, making your patio less inviting to pests.

Identifying stubborn insect pests around your home

House flies, fruit flies, and mosquitoes come out in the warmer months and can make life miserable for people on their patios. In addition, bees and wasps tend to be more active and can cause alarm for those allergic to these stinging pests. They may also build nests near doorways and windows that can prevent you from feeling safe to go outside. But why should we let tiny insects prevent us from going outdoors and enjoying this weather?

Identifying the variety of pests intruding on your outdoor spaces is crucial in maintaining a pest-free patio. Knowing which insects are invading your patio or porch allows you to tailor your treatment methods accordingly, ensuring that you use the proper repellents and deterrents. Whether it's flies, mosquitoes, or more elusive pests, understanding their habits and preferences can significantly enhance your efforts to figure out how to keep these bugs away from your patio.

Bee in the garden

Tips for creating a pest-free patio

When you’re outdoors, controlling insects in such an expansive environment can be difficult. Luckily, there are some things you can do to lessen the disturbance and annoyance they cause. Here are some tips to keep bugs away from your patio:

  1. A clean patio is a pest-free patio.
    When dining on your patio, sweep up any crumbs and wipe away spilled liquids. Even the tiniest food morsel or sticky substance can attract ants and other insects.

  2. Refresh your lighting.
    Replace your white bulbs with yellow bulbs or sodium vapor lights. The orange or yellowish glow may not attract as many insects.

  3. Plant a few herbs.
    Garlic and rosemary can help repel biting insects. To ward off other pests, you can also plant a small chive and lemongrass garden.

  4. Burn citronella torches.
    Citronella drives away bothersome insects such as flies and mosquitoes. You could also combine the torches with citrus candles for twice the pest-fighting action.

  5. Spray essential oils in the space.
    Spray water with lavender or eucalyptus around your patio to create a natural pest barrier. Spraying it on you can also work as a great outdoor insect repellent.

  6. Grow pest-deterrent flowers.
    Planting marigolds around your patio can help you fight mosquitoes and other biting and stinging pests. For extra protection, place a potted marigold container on your patio table.

  7. Use hydrogen peroxide.
    Create a spray mixture with hydrogen peroxide and water as an outdoor insect repellent. Spray your patio surface and perimeter, but do not use the mixture on food or drinks.

Get help with professional pest control from Western Exterminator

While DIY methods can help, sometimes, the best way to keep bugs away from your patio is to call in a professional. When pesky insects ruin your patio fun, contact the professional exterminators at Western Exterminator. Our technicians are dedicated to creating long-lasting solutions to ensure your outdoor living spaces remain welcoming and comfortable throughout the hottest months. Our targeted treatments go beyond merely addressing current infestations; they are designed to prevent future occurrences.

We offer free inspections and can help create a custom plan to eliminate nuisance pests while protecting your and your family’s health. If you need help dealing with pests this summer, contact us today to learn more about our pest control services!

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