Rid your garden of mosquitoes

Nothing spoils your enjoyment in the evening garden more than being attacked by swarms of mozzies. Is there anything you can do to reduce this problem?

The first thing to do before you head outdoors is to don long sleeves and pants, and apply a reliable, lasting mosquito repellent. Products based on lemon eucalyptus oil or citronella need to be re-applied more frequently. There are electronic repellers on the market but reports of their effectiveness are mixed so read reviews before buying. Old-fashioned mosquito coils (above) work to an extent – it’s thought the smoke confuses the insects – but don’t leave them burning unattended. Citronella candles are said to be better at setting the mood than driving away mozzies.

The best form of mosquito control is to stop them breeding. Shallow containers, including saucers under pots, as well as blocked gutters and pet water bowls provide breeding places for mosquito larvae. Make a habit of emptying and refilling these every day. Even bromeliads can hold enough water for wrigglers to swim in, so use a hose to flush out any water from their cups every day or so. Mosquitoes won’t breed in moving water, which may give you the excuse you’ve been looking for to install a fountain. They don’t like deep water, either, and a deep pond can make a good home for some native fish, which will gobble up any wrigglers in no time.