Overview

• Mosquitoes are drawn mainly by body heat and human odors rather than light, prompting advice to shower regularly and use unscented body care to lower bite risk.
• Removing or covering standing water in rain barrels, birdbaths and other containers is vital to disrupt mosquito breeding cycles.
• Citronella, geranium and menthol oils or candles placed around seating areas can naturally repel mosquitoes for several hours.
• Planting or potting aromatic herbs and flowers—such as mint, lavender, lemongrass and basil—provides continuous deterrence through their essential oils.
• Burning coffee grounds and encouraging natural predators like garden birds or pond fish offer additional low-impact methods to curb mosquito populations.