What’s a San Antonio, Texas summer without 15 or 20 dozen mosquito bites? Probably a happy and peaceful one, but the battle with mosquitos in warm weather seems to be a losing one for many families who spend time outdoors. Because of this, people are always looking for natural solutions to mosquito problems.
A few plants naturally repel mosquitoes, but first, let’s look at the type of mosquito found most commonly in the San Antonio area.
Asian Tiger Mosquitoes and How to Identify Them
It’s an unhappy thought, but yes, there are many different species of mosquitoes, around 300 in the world. A common one in this area is the Asian tiger mosquito, which looks a little different from the standard stock image. Here are a few of their unique characteristics:
- White and black striped coloration
- Can grow up to ⅛ of an inch
- Long, segmented body
- Females bite, and males do not.
- Males have bushier antennae
- Active year-round in warm climates, but are known to overwinter in temperate climates
- Lay eggs in stagnant water, including birdbaths, flowerpots, and clogged drains
- Known to transmit diseases such as eastern equine encephalitis, West Nile virus, dengue fever, and Zika virus.
It’s fairly well-known that mosquitoes are dangerous pests, but most people accept them as inevitable. Thankfully, that’s not the case. There are a few things you can try to keep them away from your home before resorting to professional help.
Natural Mosquito Repellents
It’s important to a lot of people to avoid chemical repellents, which seem to be the majority of solutions sold in stores these days. Fortunately, nature offers some plants that mosquitoes seem to hate the smell of. For a boost to your garden and a mosquito bouncer at your summer parties, try these plants.
- Lemongrass - This plant is a great indoor and outdoor plant. It smells nice, is easy to care for, and looks beautiful no matter where you plant it. Lemongrass contains traces of another plant that mosquitoes can’t stand, which is next on our list.
- Citronella - Most stores sell citronella candles and torches to deter mosquitoes, but did you know you can plant a small shrub for a similar effect? Thankfully, citronella shrubs thrive in climates like ours. For a beautiful, thriving bit of greenery that smells like citrus, give citronella a try.
- Eucalyptus Tree - This option doesn’t just keep mosquitoes away. Say goodbye to sand flies, ticks, and more. Not only is it an effective means of control, but it’s also a beautiful addition to any yard or garden.
- Phenomenal Lavender - Not only is Lavender a hardy plant that even the blackest of thumbs can keep alive; it’s an easy and useful addition to any landscape. Its pop of color can not only add spice to your garden, but mosquitoes can’t stand the smell.
- Garlic - While not the most aromatically pleasant to humans, garlic is an effective deterrent to mosquitoes. Garlic is notoriously easy to grow, grows in high volume, and might just take your home cooking to the next level.
White Knight Pest Control Is The Best In Mosquito Protection
Perhaps you can’t restructure your landscaping to keep mosquitoes away, or they’re stubbornly sticking around and getting indoors. When natural prevention doesn’t help, it’s time to call in the White Knight Pest Control professionals. While no pest control method can eliminate them entirely, our two-step method will reduce their numbers around your home and keep them low with monthly visits. Call White Knight Pest Control today or visit us online for a free estimate.