Elmer Gray, UGA Cooperative Extension entomologist and research professional in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences’ entomology department, spoke with Southern Living about ways to keep mosquitoes away from yards.
“You can’t avoid mosquitoes,” Gray said. “They’re everywhere, from suburban yards to woodlands to salt marshes, and some types can travel miles to find a meal.”
There’s also no “safe” time of day to be outdoors.
“Some types of mosquitoes bite during the day, while others are more likely to bite at dusk or dawn,” Gray said. “But they’ll gladly come out at any time and bite if you disturb them, such as when you’re weeding or trimming hedges.”
First, provide a less welcoming environment for the mosquito population in outdoor living areas by getting rid of standing water, using dunks and fans, and tidying up the garden around seating areas. “Maybe they’re OK at the back of your property, but not on your deck where you’re trying to drink your morning coffee. The goal is to be diligent about managing them in your immediate living space,” Gray said.