Warmer months in Texas bring the perfect excuse to relax on the patio, fire up the grill, or splash around in the backyard pool. But these activities can quickly turn unpleasant when mosquitoes show up. Aside from causing itchy bites, mosquitoes in Texas can spread serious illnesses like West Nile virus, Zika virus, and dengue fever.
For homeowners with outdoor spaces in Houston, Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and surrounding areas, it’s essential to take steps that limit mosquito activity and protect your family, especially children and seniors who may be more vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases.
Don’t wait for the bites to start—schedule a mosquito control service today with BUGCO® Pest Control and get ahead of the mosquito season.
Mosquito control in your backyard begins with a layered approach. With consistent effort and the right strategies, you can make your yard significantly less attractive to mosquitoes.
1. Eliminate Standing Water
Standing water is the number one attractant for mosquitoes. It’s where they lay their eggs and start their life cycle. Even small amounts of water can breed dozens of mosquitoes in just a few days. Be sure to check and maintain the following areas weekly:
- Birdbaths and pet water bowls
- Kiddie pools and inflatable toys
- Flowerpot saucers
- Buckets, trash can lids, and watering cans
- Clogged gutters and drains
- Tarps or pool covers that collect water
After draining water, scrub the containers to remove mosquito eggs that may cling to the sides. Consider adding mosquito dunks (a safe larvicide) to birdbaths or ponds.
Regularly inspecting your yard for water buildup is a simple but powerful step in disrupting the mosquito life cycle and keeping your family protected.
2. Keep Your Yard Trimmed and Tidy
Mosquitoes rest in cool, dark, and humid areas during the day. Overgrown lawns and dense shrubs create the perfect shelter for them. To reduce mosquito hiding spots:
- Mow your lawn regularly and keep it short
- Trim back bushes, hedges, and low-hanging branches
- Remove excess leaf litter and yard debris
- Thin out dense vegetation, especially around patios and walkways
- Store firewood off the ground and away from the home
A clean, well-maintained yard improves curb appeal and cuts down on mosquito resting spots, making your yard less inviting to these pests.
3. Incorporate Mosquito-Repellent Plants
Some plants release natural scents that mosquitoes find unpleasant. While not a complete solution, incorporating these into your landscaping can support other mosquito prevention methods.
Great plant options include citronella (also known as mosquito grass), lavender, marigolds, lemongrass, rosemary, basil, and mint. Plant these in garden beds, around patios, or in pots near doors and windows. Crushed leaves release more of their natural oils, which may offer more repellent benefits.
Repellent plants offer a natural way to complement your mosquito control strategy while enhancing your outdoor space with color and fragrance.
4. Use Outdoor Fans and Screens
Mosquitoes are weak fliers. Adding wind to your environment makes it physically harder for them to land and bite. This is especially useful during peak mosquito activity times like early mornings and evenings.Try these outdoor upgrades:
- Install ceiling fans or portable fans on patios and porches
- Set up mosquito netting around seating or play areas
- Use screened gazebos or pergolas for shaded protection
- Ensure all window and door screens are intact and secure
These small enhancements make a noticeable difference and add comfort to your outdoor areas. Creating movement and barriers can drastically reduce mosquito bites, particularly in areas where your family gathers most.
5. Schedule Professional Mosquito Treatments
Even with consistent yard maintenance, some mosquito activity is inevitable, especially during hot and humid months. That’s where professional mosquito control can help.
At BUGCO® Pest Control, our mosquito control services are designed to target adult mosquitoes and disrupt breeding cycles using safe, proven methods. Our team works with homeowners to create a customized treatment plan that fits your property and comfort level.
Professional intervention adds an extra layer of protection that can significantly reduce mosquito populations around your home and provide peace of mind during the year's warmest months.
Family Safety Tips: Preventing Mosquito Bites at Home
In addition to managing your yard, taking personal precautions can reduce the chances of mosquito bites for you and your family. Important everyday tips include:
- Apply insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
- Dress in long-sleeved shirts and long pants during dawn and dusk
- Use mosquito nets over cribs or strollers if outdoors
- Keep doors and windows closed or well-screened
- Limit outdoor activities during peak mosquito times (sunrise and sunset)
These practical safety measures help minimize the risk of mosquito bites and reduce exposure to mosquito-borne illnesses.
Take Action Now to Protect Your Home and Family
Whether you're hosting a barbecue, enjoying your pool, or relaxing under the stars, you shouldn’t have to worry about mosquitoes. With a proactive approach and trusted help from BUGCO® Pest Control, you can reclaim your outdoor spaces and reduce health risks from mosquito bites.
Contact us today or call us at (281) 801-6774 to schedule your mosquito inspection or treatment service. Let’s build a plan that works for your family, your yard, and your peace of mind.