3 Landscaping Design Tips to Keep Mosquitoes Away

There are plenty of chemical repellants to stop mosquitoes from taking over your outdoor living area. But honestly, it’s not the healthiest option for your greenery, and who likes the feel of bug spray on their skin anyway?

One of the smartest methods to prevent mosquitos is to design your landscape in a way so that it’s not suitable for these buzzing biters to breed.

In this post, we share some simple landscape design hacks that will keep the mozzies from taking over, so you can enjoy your time outdoors without the toxic chemicals.

Apply Cedar Mulch

Organic mulch is essential for keeping your flowerbeds well-drained and looking pretty, but did you know that certain types can also prevent mosquitoes? 

The smell of cedar mulch deters mosquitoes, along with cockroaches, termites, and ants. 

Bear in mind that cedar mulch is more expensive than other varieties, but if you live in a region that gets a lot of mosquitoes, it’s worth it.

Get Rid of Standing Water

If you’re dealing with a mosquito problem, then you may have areas of standing water around your yard. 

Mosquitoes breed and spawn in stagnant water, no matter where it is- inside empty planters, pet water bowls, birdbaths- you name it.

You can effectively put an end to the infestation by improving the drainage in your yard so mosquitoes can’t breed. 

Here are some ways to eliminate standing water:

• Always empty containers after a rainstorm
• Build a DIY dry creek bed to drain moving water
• Use garden pebbles or mulch in flowerbeds to improve drainage
• Cover large areas with gravel or landscaping stones
• Aerate the soil by regularly poking holes in your yard with a pitchfork 

Incorporate Plants That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes

Instead of spraying chemicals in your yard, plant different herbs that give off a scent that mozzies can’t stand.

Cymbopogon is the active ingredient found in products such as citronella candles and non-toxic bug sprays. It comes from lemongrass, and while mosquitos dislike it, it smells heavenly to us humans.

You can crush the leaves and rub them on your skin and clothes to release the scent and keep mozzies at bay.