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Disposable Fly Traps Are Just The Beginning: Natural Summer Pest Control Remedies

Disposable Fly Traps Are Just The Beginning: Natural Summer Pest Control Remedies

Not that I want a summer without bugs. No problem. Summer would lose half its magic without the song of the cicadas or the glow of the fireflies.

It’s the other bugs that (ahem) bother me. (You’ve never heard that before, have you?)

For me, the triumvirate of summer pests is this: Ants. mosquitoes Houseflies.

I love warm weather, I don’t even mind the humidity (sweat those toxins!), but when I see flies on the window screen, I feel cold inside. I’m shaking. I start rummaging through the space under the sink, looking for last year’s disposable fly traps. Because you know how flies do, they multiply. They buzz. They drive me crazy.

And then, oh joy, the mosquitoes. If only itchy red bumps started to be considered a stylish accessory, it would be right up there with fashion. Instead, I am afraid to wear summer skirts so that people will stay away from me completely, for fear of chicken pox.

Ants, however, are my archenemies. I use the plural here because there is no such thing as a single ant. The ants are armies, marching in lines from the door, up the cabinets and walls, finding their way to my sink. Why? I want to ask you. Maybe I’d be less upset if I could understand you better. But you don’t trade with mistakes, with preconditions or otherwise.

Which brings me to the point. This summer I stocked up on disposable fly traps, consulted pest control, and am ready to tackle my three least favorite pests. How? I’m glad you asked. Not being a mistake, myself, I can and am happy to discuss this with you.

1. Ants

First, try not to make your kitchen too attractive. Keep counters and floors clean and free of crumbs. Under no circumstances leave the sugar bowl out in the open, and unless you’re a glutton for punishment, double pack that jar of honey.

Don’t let dishes soak overnight. I know, it’s summer and you want to relax, but what is more relaxing, knowing that there are no ants in the house or skipping the dishes? For me, it’s a no-brainer.

If ants get in, there are several home remedies to try that may surprise you. Cucumbers, for example. Leave some slices out. The ants hate them. You can also try cayenne, citrus oil, or a mixture of borax and water. I put borax in the cracks around my sink and it worked, but that was back in my single days. Do not use if you have pets or children in the house.

If those natural remedies fail you, it’s time for a bug trap. (That’s where all these roads lead. Help is on the way!)

2. Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are attracted to stagnant water. Kiddie pools, birdbaths, your pet’s water bowl – be sure to change the water at least twice a week. Also check the gutters. Do not leave anything on the patio that collects water.

Time for natural remedies! Citronella, in my experience, doesn’t do much. Eucalyptus helps some. Toss sage or rosemary on the barbecue if you’re grilling. I’ve heard of dousing you with garlic water, but vanity forbids me to try it myself.

Plant marigolds!

3. Houseflies

I am a big believer in disposable fly traps. This is because I’m not a big believer in fly swatting, which has just felt like an exercise in futility in my experience.

You can also try keeping mint, basil, bay leaves, cloves, or clover on your windowsills. If it doesn’t keep the flies away, at least it will smell good.

And for God’s sake, even if you were raised in a barn, close the door.

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