Pike Nurseries shares tips for mosquito control

Summer is heating up, which means mosquitoes are in full force! Known for causing annoying, itchy bites and serious Zika concerns, these pesky bugs can ruin time otherwise enjoyed outside. To help customers keep these unwelcome insects from invading pool parties and backyard barbeques, the garden experts at Pike Nurseries are offering a variety of ways to keep mosquitoes at bay this season. 

Eliminate standing water - The best way to reduce mosquitoes is to remove any standing water sources, which is where they lay their eggs. To clear out all potential mosquito breeding grounds, clean and refill bird baths regularly and check the entire yard for stagnant water, turning over empty pots, lids, tin cans and other containers to ensure they do not collect water.  Dropping Mosquito Beater Water Soluble Pouches into ponds or other spots of standing water is another way to reduce mosquito populations before they even hatch. These pouches are effective against mosquito larvae, yet harmless to fish or other aquatic organisms.

Grow mosquito-repellent plants - There are a variety of easy-growing plants that naturally repel mosquitoes with strong scents from essential oils. Incorporating these around the garden and home not only deter unwanted insect invaders, but also make attractive additions to the landscape. Top plants to ward off mosquitoes include:

• Citrosa (Citronella) Scented Geranium - This geranium, often called “the mosquito plant,” produces a citronella scent when its leaves are touched or crushed. The fragrance stems from the plant’s citronella oil, which is the main ingredient for many repellents. Plant this geranium in full to partial sun spots around the patio or in flower pots to help create a natural barrier against mosquitoes.

• Lemongrass - Like the geranium, lemongrass also contains citronella oil. This pretty, nearly lime-colored grass grows best in average, well-drained soil and full sun. In addition to repelling pesky mosquitoes, lemongrass has a tasty lemon flavor that is perfect in tea, lemonade or other summertime recipes.

• Lavender - Lavender is a flowering, fragrant herb that belongs to the mint family. While many people enjoy the smell of lavender oil as a wonderful calming aroma, it repels mosquitoes and keeps bugs away! Once established, this plant is very tough, drought-resistant and only needs full sun and proper drainage. A beautiful addition to any garden, lavender can also be used to add fragrance to the home and in recipes for enhanced flavor.

Try other products for mosquito protection:

• Amazon Lights Citronella Candles - These candles are made from a blend of aromatic essential oils from Brazilian andiroba that deter mosquitoes, including citronella, rosemary and thyme. Each candle contains 300 percent to 500 percent more essential oils than the majority of citronella products for greater effectiveness! Safe for humans and pets, these candles repels mosquitoes, no-see-ums and more within a 15-foot radius.

• Thermacell - This lightweight device is portable, odorless and creates a 15-foot mosquito-free zone. Thermacell starts working in 15 minutes and is easy to bring along when gardening, grilling, camping, tailgating and more.

• Bonide Mosquito Beater - An all-natural mosquito repellent, Bonide Mosquito Beater can be mixed with water to spray on the lawn, garden and patio to ward off mosquitoes, gnats and other nuisance insects for up to two weeks.

• Dynatrap Insect Trap - Using UV light and carbon dioxide (irresistible to mosquitoes), this durable all-weather trap eliminates mosquitoes and other flying pests with no zapping or pesticides. Available in two sizes, this trap protects half an acre or up to one acre and takes about one to two weeks to see a noticeable decrease in the mosquito population around the yard.

For more information about mosquito control tips from Pike Nurseries, visit pikenursery.com/pages/tell-mosquitos-to-buzz-off.

ABOUT PIKE NURSERIES

Ever committed to its customers’ gardening success, Pike Nurseries takes pride in taking the guesswork out of gardening. Offering superior knowledge, quality and selection in a friendly, caring environment, Pike Nurseries has been an Atlanta icon for over 50 years.  Founded in 1958 by Pete Pike, its ability to adapt to market conditions and community needs has made it a respected Southern institution.  As Atlanta’s oldest garden chain, Pike Nurseries has 16 retail locations in the Atlanta, Ga. and Charlotte, N.C. areas. Now led by CEO Mike Kunce, Pike Nurseries looks forward to continued growth as it keeps Atlanta and Charlotte beautiful, one landscape at a time.

For more information, please visit Pike Nurseries online at www.pikenursery.com.

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