Great Tips for Reducing Pests while Still Enjoying the Outdoors

Great Summer weather makes everyone want to go outside and explore the outdoors. Here are some great summer tips to keep pests away while you're outside from the people at the dailyherald.com

Summer living goes outdoors in most parts of the country. Flowers are in bloom and the sun is shining and your hammock is waiting for you. Of course, so are the bugs! Here are some of our favorite tips for ridding your backyard of pests.

The first step in pest control is to hit them where they live. In other words, get rid of their living quarters. Most bugs like a cushy pad, so remove nesting materials like bags of mulch, brush and grass piles. Mow your yard as it grows, and keep plants tidy, removing dead leaves, flowers and fruit. Get rid of old birds’ nests and piles of wood and other decaying materials that tend to pile up in one’s backyard.

Bugs also need food and water, so make sure you remove any sources of water, like the standing water in trays under flowerpots, empty containers that collect rainwater and other standing water. Clean out gutters, which can clog and provide nesting materials and water for bugs.

Bug-repellent candles, torches and incense are one way to keep the bugs at bay. They also add to the ambience of the area.

There also is a wide variety of sprays that can be used around your backyard entertaining area that will get rid of bugs and keep them away while you are having your barbecue.

Flies can be deterred by hanging clear bags of water or mirrors on your patio. For some reason, the flies can’t stand these items and will stay away.

Certain plants, like the citronella plant, give off a scent that repels bugs.

You can buy specially made bracelets and even clothes that have a built-in bug repellent. They actually work and will last for several months or washings, whichever comes first.

Remember to be safe with pesticides and that some bugs are actually beneficial … as long as they are not bugging you!

Protect your home from a wide variety of pests with Servall Pest Control. Serving the Western Kentucky region all year long. Learn more at www.servallpestcontrol.com!