How To Get Rid of Mosquitos Organically [SHOPPING LIST]

After more than 30 years in the biz, we (My Organic Turf) have a pretty straightforward strategy for how we control mosquitos in your backyard:

Step 1: Eliminate standing water

Step 2: Maintain your grass

Step 3: Use natural repellants first

Step 4: Hire a professional pest control service (here’s how)

RELATED: What Do Mosquitoes Eat?

Table of Contents

How Do You Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Your Yard?

Mosquitoes are not just annoying; they can also be a health hazard. Nobody wants their backyard to be a breeding ground for these pesky insects.

You have burgers to grill. Dogs to chase. Swing sets to build.

The good news is that there are natural ways to treat your lawn and keep mosquitoes at bay so you and your family can enjoy your backyard, itch-free.

1. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water, and they actually need it to live.

So, the first step in getting rid of mosquitos in your backyard is to eliminate standing water around your home.

Check Gutters: Ensure gutters are clear of leaves and debris to prevent water from pooling.
Empty Containers: Regularly empty birdbaths, pet water bowls, and any other containers that collect water.
Maintain Pools: Keep swimming pools clean and well-chlorinated. Cover them when not in use.
Drain Unused Items: Ensure that tarps, buckets, planters, and even fallen palm fronds are not holding water.

2. Maintain Your Lawn and Garden

The water’s gone, but you’re still getting eaten alive every time you step outside.

This is a sign you need to clean up your yard. Start with:

Mow Consistently: Aim to mow your lawn once a week to keep your lawn from retaining water.
Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs well-trimmed because this is where mosquitos like to hide from wind and sunshine.
Aerate Soil: Aerating the soil (aka punching little holes in it like this) can help create a drainage system so water doesn’t pool in your yard.

3. Use Natural Mosquito Repellents

Hate the thought of spraying a bunch of chemicals in your yard?

Try these natural mosquito repellents first so your kids and pets don’t have to stay off the lawn!

Essential Oils: Citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint oils are known for their mosquito-repelling properties. You can use these oils in candles, sprays, or diffusers around your yard.
Repellent Plants: Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes. Consider planting marigolds, basil, and catnip in your garden.
Neem Oil Spray

4. Install Mosquito Traps

These Amazon mosquito traps can help reduce the mosquito population by attracting and capturing them.

CO2 Traps: This $34 trap uses carbon dioxide to attract mosquitoes and trap them.
UV Light Traps: These traps use ultraviolet light to lure mosquitoes and capture them on a sticky surface.

In Tampa Bay? Get a pest control quote!

Natural Mosquito Lawn Treatment Recipe

If you’re looking for a natural mosquito lawn treatment, you can easily make one at home. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup of apple cider vinegar
1 cup of water
1/4 cup of witch hazel
20 drops of essential oils (eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender are great options)

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
Shake well before each use.
Spray generously on your lawn, focusing on damp areas and places with tall grass.

This natural spray is safe for pets and kids and effectively repels mosquitoes.

When To Hire a Pest Control Expert

While these methods should work, there are scenarios where you might want to call in the experts.

For example, you might have:

Persistent Mosquito Problems: If you’ve tried various DIY methods but still struggle with a high mosquito population, a professional can provide more advanced treatments and solutions tailored to your situation.
Large Property: Managing mosquito control alone can be challenging for larger properties or extensive outdoor areas. Professionals like us have the tools and knowledge to handle large spaces effectively and permanently.
Health Concerns: You or your family members have health concerns or conditions that make mosquito bites particularly dangerous (e.g., allergies, weakened immune systems).
Time Constraints: You’re too busy to consistently maintain mosquito control measures. You simply want ongoing treatments and regular monitoring to ensure your yard remains mosquito-free.
Complex Yard Layout: You’ve realized that your yard features, such as dense foliage, ponds, or other mosquito-breeding areas, are difficult to manage on your own.
Need for Integrated Solutions: We offer what’s called integrated pest management (IPM) solutions. It’s when we combine techniques such as larvicides, adulticides, and environmental modifications for a more comprehensive mosquito control.

How to Choose a Professional Pest Expert

Check Credentials: Make sure the company is licensed and certified for pest control. For example, we’re proud to be Premiere Certified Specialists for the innovative In2Care® Mosquito Trap (which kills mosquitoes fast, naturally, and without the use of toxic chemicals found in traditional mosquito repellants).
Read Reviews: We don’t want to brag, but we have over 100.
Ask About Methods: For example, we always like to ensure that the methods and products we use align with your preferences for safety and environmental impact.