Spring in Longview offers warmer days, blooming flowers, and more time spent outside. But spring’s arrival means mosquito season is around the corner. These tiny pests can quickly turn your peaceful backyard into a buzzing battleground. Thankfully, there are things you can do to prevent the problem from arising. Longview pest control involves preventive measures and treatment methods designed to eliminate these blood-sucking insects. Below are steps you can take to against mosquitoes:

Clear Out Standing Water

Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs. They can do so in a tiny puddle. Mosquitoes usually breed in flower pot saucers, buckets, and toys. Also, birdbaths and clogged gutters are common mosquito breeding spots. You can make your property less appealing to mosquitoes by getting rid of standing water you find. Also, ensure outdoor areas stay dry throughout the season. 

Tidy Up Your Yard

Mosquitoes make themselves comfortable in overgrown grass, weeds, and thick shrubs during the heat of the day. Trimming your lawn and keeping bushes neat make your yard less inviting for them. Rake up old leaves and clean up piles of branches or debris that can collect water and give shelter to mosquitoes. Even firewood stacks can become a mosquito resting place if when left undisturbed for too long.

Refresh Outdoor Features

Birdbaths, fountains, or water features can improve the appearance of your yard, but they should be cleaned regularly to prevent mosquito eggs from hatching. Adding a small water agitator or fountain to a pond can help keep the water moving if you have a pond. Also, goldfish or mosquito fish help by eating mosquito larvae.

Get Your Screens and Fans Ready

Check the screens on your windows and doors. Ensure there are no tears or gaps where mosquitoes can enter. Consider setting up outdoor fans if you enjoy relaxing on your porch or patio. The air from fans can prevent mosquitoes from sharing your space with them. 

Use Nature to Your Advantage

Basil, rosemary, lavender, and citronella are natural mosquito repellents. You can plant them in pots or garden beds around your outdoor living spaces. These plants won’t get rid of mosquitoes, but they can help reduce the population flying near your patio or deck. Plus, they smell great and add a pop of color to your yard.

Know When to Call Experts

Mosquitoes may still find a way to settle in even if you have tried everything to control them. Thankfully, Liberty Lake-based Pointe Pest Control offers professional pest control services and customized treatment plans. CEO and founder Jacob Borg leads a team that focuses on safe and effective solutions for families who want to enjoy their yards without the constant swatting. The company understands the unique challenges that come with Longview’s damp spring and summer climate. Its technicians know where mosquitoes hide and how to target them. 

Prepare with the Right Repellents

Spring is the best time to stock up on mosquito repellents you want to have on hand later. The best repellents contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. You can also invest in clip-on devices, wearable bands, or yard sprays for added protection during outdoor events. 

Light Your Yard with Care

The type of outdoor lighting you use can also affect how many bugs visit. Swapping out regular white lights for yellow bug lights makes your yard less attractive to mosquitoes. Try placing lights a little farther away from gathering areas so they do not draw insects too close to you. Also, citronella candles or torches can add both ambiance and mild mosquito control if you are planning to spend a lot of evenings outside.