I hate to say it Alabama, but we have bloodsuckers amongst us. The good news is that they are easily identifiable. They buzz and have big old needles for noses. The bad news is the other way that they are easily identifiable. They make us itch every time they land on us and draw blood! Mosquitoes are a problem in many parts of the world, but it does seem that the hot and wet humidity-laden Southern states bring out a special brand of suckers in the summertime. While it may seem like every mosquito is attracted to you and there’s nothing that can be done to change that, there are ways that we can keep them away from our homes. Here are a few of the most impactful ways to do so.
Limit Ways Inside
It’s easy to leave the doors open during the summertime. The kids are home, the pets are playing outside, and sometimes these portals to our home are left ajar. An innocent mistake - but one that lets precious air conditioning out and mosquitos in! Cracked windows, broken screens, and other gaps in our home’s infrastructure are ways that bugs can get in. Protect yourself in your home from limiting unnecessary entrances from the outside world.
Grow Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Gardening is one of the best ways to enjoy outside time while working on something that will better your life directly. We often think of food like fruits and vegetables when we picture the benefits of gardening, but some of these plants work to rid our yard of mosquitoes while they are growing. This includes basil, lavender, and citronella.
Light A Fire
We have to imagine that Jim Morrison was being bitten up by mosquitoes and asking his loved one to spark a candle in The Doors’ hit song “Light My Fire”. It’s something we all relate to. Fortunately, there are candles and tiki torches that are designed to repel mosquitos and allow us to enjoy the warm summer nights outside in peace. Look for citronella when buying your lighter-based gear.
Prevent Water Pooling Up
As much as mosquitoes and humans seem like mortal enemies since the beginning of time, we do share a few things in common. One being that we both love spending time around a body of water. While humans like bigger layouts like the lake or ocean, mosquitoes just need a puddle on top of your trash can or objects left outside to begin hatching eggs and adding to their ranks. Avoid puddles when possible and sprinkle coffee grounds over the unavoidable ones to reduce the amount of mosquitoes around your home.
You now have the tools for the perfect summer outdoor experience in Alabama. The only thing left to do now is have a little fun!
Cover image by Ravi Kant
